August 25, 2020

The public is invited to attend several free events in conjunction with Plein Air in the Parks.

Plein Air in the Parks is a collaborative weekend event presented by Wyoming State Parks, the Wyoming Arts Council, and the Cody Country Art League. Taking place Aug. 27-30 at Buffalo Bill State Park (4192 Northfork Highway), this painting and drawing  competition pairs talented artists with beautiful locations, and offers cash prizes to top participants. The public is invited to visit Buffalo Bill State Park throughout the event, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fri., Aug. 28 and Sat., Aug. 29, to watch artists work and ask questions about the plein air process. Visitors to the Park will need to pay the daily use fee.

On Fri., Aug. 28 at 7 p.m., the Cody Country Art League is hosting a free public reception in their courtyard at 836 Sheridan Ave. The public is invited to attend to meet the participating artists.

On Sat., Aug. 29 beginning at 9 a.m., the Cody Country Art League is sponsoring a free plein air workshop at Buffalo Bill State Park. No previous experience is required and materials will be provided. Participants should gather at the Sheep Mountain Day Use Area. Paige Bacon will be leading a youth workshop and Ron Rogers will be the adult instructor.

Plein Air in the Parks concludes on Sun., Aug. 30 with an awards ceremony, reception, and art sale from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Sheep Mountain Day Use Area at Buffalo Bill State Park. Artwork created during Plein Air in the Parks will be on view and available for purchase. Visitors can also cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award during the reception.

All public events are being held outside and social distancing will be followed. Masks are not required but are encouraged. Masks and hand sanitizer will be made available and current health and safety guidelines will be followed. 

Online registration is still open for artists who would like to participate in Plein Air in the Parks at https://2020pleinairintheparks.eventbrite.com/. A reduced rate for college students is available for $15.00 and a youth division rate for those under the age of 18 is available for $5.00. Walk up registration through Saturday morning will also be available.

For full rules and regulations, visit wyoarts.state.wy.us/wac-program/plein-air. For more information, contact Rachel Clifton, Wyoming Arts Council, at 307-256-0500 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Image: The art show, sale, and reception at last year’s Plein Air in the Parks event at Sinks Canyon State Park.

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