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Capital Plein Air - Outdoor Painting Festival

Painting of an artist in the field with the artist in the disstance.
A group of artists painting under a tree at dairy famers hill
An artist painting a vista of mountains and valleys ahead
two easels and one artist painting the view at The National Arboretum
An artist on the side of a hill at sunset looking over a valley
an artists easel with an artwork in front of a view of canberra and lake burley griffin
Painting of an artist in the field with the artist in the disstance.
A group of artists painting under a tree at dairy famers hill
An artist painting a vista of mountains and valleys ahead
two easels and one artist painting the view at The National Arboretum
An artist on the side of a hill at sunset looking over a valley

Overview

Experience the art outdoors at the Capital Plein Air Festival.

Australia's premier east coast plein air event unfolds in Canberra, where artists bring the city's autumn colours to life. Visitors can watch acclaimed artists including Warwick Fuller and Leon Holmes capture iconic locations from the National Arboretum's stunning vistas to Lake Burley Griffin's tranquil shores.

For participating artists, the festival offers a week of creative inspiration with expert-led workshops, prestigious award competitions, and showcase opportunities. Registration cost includes pre-festival paint-outs, awards eligibility, and participation in the thrilling Quick Draw competition.

The public is invited to observe the creative process for free during the festival weekend. Artists will gather in easily accessible central Canberra locations including Government House's and The National Arboretum. Visitors can watch artwork take shape in real-time, enjoy demonstrations by master painters, and purchase fresh "wet paint" artwork capturing Canberra's autumn beauty and iconic landmarks. The grand finale at the National Arboretum's Event Terrace features the Quick Draw competition and awards ceremony.

The Capital Plein Air Festival welcomes everyone to this unique celebration of creativity during Canberra's most beautiful season.

Dates

21–27 Apr 2025
April 2025
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The National ArboretumForest Drive, Molonglo Valley, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Map of the venue locationMap of the venue locationGet Directions

Contacts

0448 708 842
[email protected]
capitalpleinair.com

When

Next on 21 Apr 2025 from 9:00am to 4:00pm

Where

The National Arboretum, Forest Drive, Molonglo Valley

Price

Adult
from $20 to $99

Accessibility

Disabled access available, contact operator for details.
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