Plein Air On Poyntz
Be Together on Poyntz Plein Air Competition
Date: Saturday, October 3rd, 2026
Location: Riley County Courthouse Plaza – 5th & Poyntz Avenue, Downtown Manhattan, KS
Time: 2-Hour Live Painting Session; 4 – 6 pm
Join us for the most exciting art event of the season! Capture the spirit of Downtown Manhattan by painting en plein air along the vibrant Poyntz Avenue.
Event Overview:
Bring your brushes, easels, and bold ideas — this year’s Plein Air competition sets up shop right in the heart of downtown, at the Riley County Courthouse Plaza (5th & Poyntz). You’ll have two hours to capture the scene as it unfolds live in front of you. All styles and mediums are welcome, from watercolor to oil to charcoal, as long as the work is created live during the event.
This year’s theme: Americana in Action. Think stars and stripes, hometown pride, and the energy of a small-town festival unfolding right before your eyes. Bring your gear and come ready to capture the moment as it happens!
Entry Fee: $20 per submission
Plein Air on Poyntz Guidelines & Requirements
Awards & Recognition:
- Grand Prize: $500 cash award + artwork becomes the property of Downtown Manhattan
- All artwork is required to be submitted to DMI for exhibition for the months of October & November 2026 before sales.
- After the exhibition, artists may sell their pieces directly
Judging:
All submissions will be reviewed and selected by a jury of art professionals and community members, ensuring a thoughtful and high-quality selection. Added points will be given for work that captures human movement or interaction.
Time Schedule Break Down –
- 3:00 pm – Artist Check In & Set up
- 4:00 pm – Competition begins
- 6:00 pm – Competition ends/ Artist tear down
- 6:25 pm – All submissions must be turned in to judges’ station @ Courthouse Plaza
- 6:30 pm – Judging begins
- 7:00 pm – Winners announced – $500 in prizes awarded
