5th Floyd Plein Air Biennial - Applications Now Open for 2026
- Executive Director
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
The Floyd Center for the Arts is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 5th Floyd Plein Air Biennial, taking place September 14–19, 2026 in beautiful Floyd County, Virginia. This beloved event brings together talented artists from across the region and beyond to paint the inspiring landscapes, farms, waterways, and town scenes that define our community in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Over the course of the week, selected artists will paint entirely on location, capturing the light, atmosphere, and spirit of Floyd County in real time. From rolling fields and mountain vistas to historic sites, rivers, and downtown Floyd, participants will experience the landscape through focused observation and creative exploration.
The Biennial also features a variety of public opportunities to engage with plein air art, including artist demonstrations, wet paint sales, the Quick Draw Contest, and the Gala Art Sale, where finished works created during the event will be available for purchase.
Meet Our 2026 Event Judge
We are honored to welcome Deliece Blanchard as the 2026 Event Judge. Deliece is an award-winning plein air painter and a distinguished member of Oil Painters of America, the American Impressionist Society, and American Women Artists. Her experience, dedication to the plein air tradition, and artistic excellence make her an inspiring leader for this year’s event.
Virginia native and plein air painter Joli Ayn Wood will return as Chairperson for the 2026 Biennial. Joli brings valuable insight as both an organizer and former participant, helping ensure a meaningful, supportive, and enriching experience for our visiting artists.
Eligibility & Application Details
The Biennial is open to artists:
Ages 18+
Working in 2D plein air media
Awards include a $1,500 top prize, along with additional recognitions.
Entry Fee: $60
Application Deadline: February 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
Artists are encouraged to submit strong examples of plein air work that reflect their voice, skill, and approach to working outdoors from life.
Host Opportunities & Community Connections
The Floyd Plein Air Biennial is made possible by the incredible generosity of our community. We welcome:
Host homes for visiting artists
Suggestions for scenic painting locations
Local partners who wish to participate
To get involved, please email programming@floydartcenter.org
A Week of Art, Landscape, and Connection
The Floyd Plein Air Biennial is more than an art event — it is an invitation to slow down, observe deeply, and connect with place. We look forward to welcoming a new group of artists to experience Floyd County’s beauty, culture, and creative spirit in 2026.
This event is proudly sponsored by Clark Gas and Oil. We are grateful for their continued support of the arts in our region.