Plein Air Art Competition
The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley, in partnership with Visit Big Bear, the City of Big Bear Lake and the Big Bear Theatre Project, presents the 2nd Annual Plein Air Art Competition.
Here, artists are invited to capture the rich beauty and wonder of Big Bear. For the 3 week creation period - September 15 through October 15 - set out into the wild to find your inspiration and let it come to life on your canvas. Submit up to 2 completed works for judging and celebrate with other artists at the Award Ceremony.
Festival Schedule
Sept 15 - Oct 15 Create! Artists have this timeframe to paint and submit their landscapes.
October 17-25 Show! Submitted artwork is displayed at Hofert Hall; 39707 Big Bear Blvd.
October 26 Celebrate! Awards Ceremony at Hofert Hall.
For additional information please contact pleinairbigbear@gmail.com or call 909-375-1805.
Awards
1st Prize - $2000
2nd Prize - $1500
3rd Prize - $500
Plus! One artist will win the Diane McClary People's Choice Award: $2000
Pop-Up Gallery - New this year!
We are offering registered artists the opportunity to show and sell their work. Create and submit up to two (2) landscapes "en plein air Big Bear" for display at Our Gallery from October 3 - 5 at Destination Big Bear, 713 Stocker Rd. Further details to be shared with registered artists.
2025 Plein Air Registration
Thank you for your interest in registering for the 2025 Plein Air Competition in Big Bear Lake! Please read the following information carefully to ensure success on your registration. For additional information please contact pleinairbigbear@gmail.com or call 909-375-1805.
Pre-Registration and Final Registration Defined
Pre-Registration
Pre-registration is mandatory! Please complete our Online Pre-Registration form prior to your trip to Big Bear where you will be asked to sign the 2025 Rules And Release Plein Air Big Bear VBB We will send all pre-registered artists additional information about Final Registration. Note: Pre-Registration does NOT guarantee a place in the competition. Final registration must be completed in Big Bear where your blank substrate/s are stamped and your registration fee is paid.
Final Registration
Final Registration is open September 15 - October 15. Final Registration takes place at the Big Bear Lake Visitor Center located at 40824 Big Bear Boulevard. Final Registration is open daily from 9 AM - 5 PM, where you will:
- Make your payment of the $50 Registration Fee
- Have your blank substrates (canvas/panel/board/paper) stamped, PRIOR to painting. No unstamped art will be accepted.
- You may have ten (10) blank substrates stamped but no more than one (1) can be submitted for the competition.
- Once your final registration is complete you will receive an email confirming your place in the competition.
Lodging Promo for Artists!
Stay, paint, and dine in Big Bear! We are extending a helping hand to make your time painting in Big Bear more affordable. Our exclusive offer is for registered artists:
Book a 2-night stay and receive a $100 dining gift card to Stella Luna - a celebrated local gem known for its fresh, California-inspired, farm-to-table cuisine.
This offer is available to the first 50 bookings – see you at Stella’s and we advise booking early! Details on how to book and how to receive the gift card are shared with registered artists.