Date: Month of July
Location: The Glen Arbor Arts Center and other inspiring outdoor locations.
Throughout July, children are invited to explore the world of plein air painting. They’ll learn basic skills, create art inspired by the buildings and landscapes of our region, and meet professional plein air artists. Each child will have the chance to display a painting in a public exhibition, with the experience concluding in a fun gathering and awards ceremony.
2026 Youth Plein Air Month
During the month of July, children ages 6–15 are invited to step outside and into the world of plein air painting, the practice of creating art outdoors. This immersive program introduces young artists to plein air painting, teaching them how to observe the environment and translate what they see into art while encouraging play, exploration, and creative confidence.
Guided by teaching artists and inspired by the beauty of our region’s landscapes and buildings, kids will create original works of art. Along the way, they’ll also have the unique opportunity to meet and paint alongside professional plein air artists, gaining firsthand insight into how working artists approach their craft.
Each child has the opportunity to select one of their paintings to be included in a special youth plein air exhibit, on view at the Glen Arbor Arts Center. The program concludes with a joyful community celebration and awards ceremony, where families, friends, and art lovers come together to recognize the creativity and accomplishments of these young plein air painters.
Whether your child is new to painting or already loves making art, Youth Plein Air Month offers a meaningful, hands-on way to grow their artistic voice and have a lot of fun doing it.
Amy L. Clark-Carels Fund: “Kindness”
Marsha Garber & Family
Date: Month of July
Location: Glen Arbor Arts Center Office
Cost: Free
Looking for a fun, creative way to get your child outside and engaged with art? Borrow a Plein Air Kit from the Glen Arbor Arts Center for FREE in July! These kits are designed for kids and include everything they need to start painting the world around them. Instructions are included and no experience is required.
It’s a simple, low-pressure way for kids to explore their creativity in the fresh air. Whether it’s here on the grounds of GAAC, your backyard, a park, or a favorite local spot, a Plein Air Kit helps turn any setting into an art adventure.
Here’s what you need to knowWho it’s for
Children, ages 6–15, with parent or guardian supervision.
What’s Included
Each kit contains supplies and instructions, including standing easels, canvases, paints, brushes, and a painters palette.
How long
Kits can be borrowed for up to 4 days during July.
Availability
We have lots of kits available, but they may go quickly when demand is high. To make sure one is ready for your child, we recommend contacting GAAC ahead of time to check on availability.
Pick-up and return
During regular office hours.
Date: Saturday, July 11 (rain date July 12)
Location: Thoreson Farm (Port Oneida Historic District)
Cost: Free
A unique day of outdoor art and imagination awaits at the beautiful historical setting of Thoreson Farm, offering young artists a chance to connect with history through creativity.
Young artists will watch plein air painters in action and receive guidance as they create their own paintings, with all supplies provided. A storyteller brings history to life, inspiring the scenes they imagine. Presented by the Glen Arbor Arts Center in partnership with Sleeping Bear Forever.
Hands-On Painting
Kids ages 6–12 can try plein air painting with guidance from experienced artists. All supplies, including easels, canvases, and paints, are provided at no cost.
Imagining The Past
To inspire the imagination of a working homestead, this year’s event includes a featured storyteller and historical props provided by Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear, allowing young artists to visualize and capture the spirit of life on a vintage farm.
Live Demos
Watch professional artists demonstrate how to capture historic buildings and the natural beauty of Thoreson Farm.
Creative Encouragement
This day is about fun, experimentation, and connecting with the outdoors.
Morning Session | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Artists: Stephanie Schlatter & Hank Feeley
Afternoon Session | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Featured Artists: Mark Mehaffey & Barbara Reich
Join for one or both sessions.
What To Bring
While all painting supplies—including easels, canvases, and paints—are provided at no cost, we recommend bringing the following to ensure a comfortable day on the farm:
Paint-Friendly Clothing: Wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little messy. Art is fun, but paint can be permanent!
Sun Protection: The event is outdoors, so remember to bring sunblock, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat.
Bug Spray: Since we’ll be painting in a farm and field setting, a little insect repellent can go a long way.
Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized while you work on your masterpiece.
A Camp Chair: While young artists will be busy at their easels, parents and guardians may want to bring a portable chair to relax and enjoy the scenery.
A Sense of Wonder: Bring your curiosity and your imagination as we explore the history of Thoreson Farm!
Registration
Just show up! While pre-registration isn’t required, an adult must complete a registration form on-site and remain to supervise their children.
In Case of Rain
A decision will be posted on the GAAC website and SBF channels by Friday, July 10, at 6 PM.
If you’re one of our young artists, this is your moment, come celebrate your hard work and creativity alongside your peers.
If you’re a proud parent, a visitor, or an art enthusiast, we invite you to experience the imagination and talent of these budding artists and join us in celebrating their accomplishments.
Location: Glen Arbor Arts Center Classroom
Dates and Time: August 3-6, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cost: Free admission. A suggested donation of $5 helps support Youth Plein Air.
Artist Entry Process: Drop off your July plein air work at GAAC by August 2.
About: All participating Youth Plein Air Month artists, ages 6–15, are invited to exhibit one completed plein air painting. This public exhibit is a wonderful opportunity to see the world through the eyes of young creatives who’ve spent time in July capturing the beauty of the outdoors. Stop in and support their artistic efforts!
Location: Glen Arbor Arts Center Back Deck
Date: Thursday, August 6
Time: 6:00 pm
About: Join us for a relaxed and celebratory evening as we wrap up Youth Plein Air Month with a community gathering on the GAAC’s back deck. This special event brings together young artists, their families, friends, and the public to celebrate the creativity and effort poured into their work. A selection of outstanding work will receive awards of recognition. 2 youth jurors will be selecting the winners.
Award winners will be featured during the GAAC’s Plein Air Weekend, August [TBD], displayed alongside professional artists at both the Friday and Saturday exhibitions. This is an exciting opportunity for these young creatives to share the spotlight.
Below you’ll find a detailed schedule of events for Youth Plein Air Month in July.
Location: Thoreson Farm (Port Oneida Historic District)
Date: Saturday, July 11 (rain day: Sunday, July 12)
Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Cost: Free
Description: See “The Youth Plein Air Experience” Tab for details.
Location: GAAC Classroom
Exhibit Dates: August 3-6
Exhibit Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cost: Entry is free; a $5 donation helps support Youth Plein Air.
Description: Every child, age 6–15, is invited to exhibit one completed plein air painting in this public exhibit. Drop off your July plein air work at GAAC by August 2.
Description: The Youth Plein Air Exhibit concludes with a celebratory gathering and awards ceremony recognizing select works.
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