FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association is set to bring its exciting “Paint it Fresh” competition and art sale to the Taste of the Arts festival today. This event, running from August 21 to 23, 2025, invites artists to paint outdoors in real time, with works judged and sold right at the downtown Fort Wayne celebration.
The festival itself kicks off at 11 a.m. and wraps up at 6 p.m., closing parts of Main Street for a mix of live performances, food vendors, and family fun. Organizers expect thousands to join in, highlighting the region’s creative spirit amid a backdrop of music, dance, and visual arts.
What to Expect from Paint it Fresh Competition
Artists from across the area will gather to create plein air paintings, capturing Fort Wayne’s urban landscapes on canvas. This style of art, done entirely outdoors, adds a fresh and immediate feel to each piece.
The competition spans three days, starting with painting sessions on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday, judges will review entries during the main festival hours. Winners get cash prizes that reward skill and creativity.
A highlight is the quick draw event, where painters race against the clock to finish works in just a few hours. This draws crowds who watch the process unfold live.
For those interested in buying art, the sale happens right after judging. Prices vary, but many pieces start affordable, making it easy for locals to take home original works.
Festival Details and How to Join In
Taste of the Arts, hosted by Arts United, transforms downtown into a hub of culture. Streets close between Lafayette and Clinton, plus Barr and Berry, creating space for nine stages of entertainment.
Food trucks and drink stands offer local flavors, from street eats to craft brews. Kids can dive into hands on activities like craft stations and interactive shows.
To enter the plein air competition, artists must register ahead. Fees are $35 for association members and $45 for others. Spots fill up fast, so early sign up is key.
The event ties into broader community efforts to boost arts in Northeast Indiana. Similar festivals have grown in popularity, drawing more visitors each year.
Here are key times for today’s highlights:
- 11 a.m.: Festival opens with live music starts.
- 1 p.m.: Plein air judging begins.
- 3 p.m.: Quick draw competition kicks off.
- 5 p.m.: Awards ceremony and art sale.
Awards and Opportunities for Artists
Prizes make the competition stand out. The top honor, Best of Show, comes with $500. At least five merit awards offer $200 each.
Special categories include nocturne painting for night scenes and purchase awards where sponsors buy winning pieces outright. These incentives help artists gain exposure and build their careers.
Last year, over 50 painters joined, selling works that raised thousands for local arts. This year aims to top that, with more sponsors on board.
Judges look for elements like composition, color use, and how well the art captures the scene’s essence. Winners often see their pieces featured in galleries later.
Why This Event Matters to Fort Wayne
Events like this strengthen community bonds by showcasing local talent. Fort Wayne’s arts scene has boomed, with attendance at similar gatherings up 20 percent in recent years.
It also boosts the economy, as visitors spend on food, lodging, and shopping. City leaders praise it for putting Fort Wayne on the map as a cultural spot.
Families enjoy the mix of free activities, while art lovers find inspiration. One past attendee shared how buying a painting sparked a new hobby.
Looking ahead, organizers plan to expand next year with more international artists. This growth reflects rising interest in plein air across the U.S.
| Award Category | Prize Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Best of Show | $500 | Top overall painting selected by judges |
| Merit Award | $200 | Given to at least five standout entries |
| Nocturne Paint | Varies | For exceptional night time scenes |
| Quick Draw | Varies | Fast paced contest with timed creation |
| Purchase Award | Varies | Sponsors buy and keep winning art |
Tips for Attending and Supporting Local Art
Plan to arrive early to beat crowds and snag good spots near stages. Parking is available nearby, but carpooling helps with traffic.
Wear comfy shoes for walking and bring cash for vendors. Weather looks clear, but check updates for any changes.
Supporting artists means more than buying; chatting with them adds to the fun. Many share tips on starting your own painting journey.
Share your festival stories or favorite art finds in the comments below. What excites you most about Taste of the Arts? Your thoughts could inspire others to join next time.
