Guidelines & Applying

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What is Shadows Plein Air?

The Shadows-on-the-Teche Plein Air competition debuted in 2015, introducing the community to painting en plein air. The tradition of “painting outside” is one explored by William Weeks Hall, the last private owner of the Shadows, who advertised for and taught painting classes in the gardens in the 1940s. In the eight-year history of the competition, over 170 artists from 25 states, Canada, and the Philippines have applied to participate. Almost 100 of these artists have traveled to New Iberia for the opportunity to spend a week painting in seven parishes in Acadiana, helping to preserve our unique landscape and historic, urban, and rural viewscapes.

Who is this year’s judge?

John Poon has been a working artist for over 25 years. He graduated from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, and was offered a position as an instructor of Drawing and Painting. He eventually served as Director of Foundations overseeing classes in Drawing, Sketching, Perspective, and Color and Design. A sought after instructor and painter, his works can be found in both private and pubic collections across the country.

What about awards?

In 2024, artists will compete for $10,000 in CASH PRIZES!