What makes a plein air painting stand out from the field? Join Plein Air Smokies judge Lori Putnam for a closer look at the award-winning works from this year’s event.
Putnam will share what caught her attention, what she considered as she selected the winners in each category, and what made these paintings rise to the top. Many of this year’s featured artists will also be on hand, making this a unique opportunity to hear more about the creative and judging process behind Plein Air Smokies.
Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or simply curious about how a judge approaches a competition, you’re invited to join us for this free public conversation.
About Plein Air Smokies
Twenty nationally acclaimed artists will set up their easels across Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding region on Sept. 19–26 for Plein Air Smokies, a weeklong celebration of art, landscape, and the practice of painting outdoors.

Plein Air Smokies is hosted by Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, a nonprofit outdoor school located inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Proceeds support Tremont’s hands-on outdoor education programs through scholarships, allowing more people to connect deeply with nature.

Plein Air Smokies is presented by Toyota Knoxville and Lexus of Knoxville, with additional support from Anakeesta. A complete schedule, featured artist profiles, event registration, and updates are available at pleinairsmokies.org.