At 4 pm on Friday, March 9th the Key West Art Center kicks off a Plein Air tradition ten years in the making with a demonstration by John Clayton. Based in Provincetown John Clayton is an energetic painter who shares his passion for color as it is revealed in the ever changing light key of nature.“I’m not so much interested in making a picture as an image of a particular place, a recognized person or object. I’m studying the color and allowing nature to reveal her beauty on that specific day, and am committed to returning to the same location until I have created an expression of the scene in an artistic expression.” Linger after the demo to enjoy light refreshments, speak with the artist, and pre-register for Plein Air Key West. Artists of ALL levels are encouraged to participate.

Saturday, March 10th Plein Air Key West begins as artist registration opens promptly at 8 am at the Key West Art Center. All participants must get their canvases stamped during morning registration before heading out to paint at the location of their choice. Artwork must be returned to the Art Center by no later than 1:30 that afternoon, so that it may be judged by John Clayton himself. Friends, family, strangers, and artists alike are invited to enjoy a refreshing array of treats at the Happy Hour Show & Sale from 5 to 7 pm. Come share in the excitement as the winners are announced and CASH PRIZES awarded at 6:15 pm. All Plein Air paintings created that day will be on display and available for purchase.

Grab an easel and join in the creative fun for a delightful touch of color this March. The participation fee for Plein Air Key West is $30 for Art Center Members, $35 for non-members. The Key West Art Center, a non-profit community art center and gallery, is located at 301 Front Street with daily operating hours of 10 am to 5 pm. For more information or to register to be a part of a decade long tradition please call (305) 294-1241 or visit www.keywestartcenter.com.