Grand Rapids Area Paint-Out Schedule

 

Join area artists in the great outdoors for plein air paint-outs, Wednesday mornings, 9am-noon, May 13th - October 14th. Organized by Nelia Harper French, these casual gatherings are for artists of all skill levels to paint, draw and experience the joy of painting and sketching outdoors. Each week, artists will meet at a new location in the Grand Rapids area, rain or shine. Artists choose their own mediums and materials and work independently. No prior experience is required.

Register Here

 
 

Summer 2026 schedule

More dates will be added as the summer progresses!

  • May 13 - Itasca County Feed Co-op Building, 900 NW 4th Street, Grand Rapids, MN

    • The former Itasca County Farm Service Feed Co-op building is scheduled to be demolished this summer. Let's paint the building and grain silos before they are gone. There are also train cars along the tracks and an "industrial feel" to the area. Meet next door at Anderson Glass to park. You may also park across Hwy 2 for additional views.

    • Meet at: Anderson Glass located on Hwy 2 just west of downtown Grand Rapids

    • Parking: Anderson Glass, 816 NW 4th St, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

    • Restroom: Anderson Glass.

  • May 20 - Prairie River Dam, CO Rd 61, Grand Rapids, MN

    • A perennial favorite as there are so many options along the Prairie River. Either go to the north side of the road and walk up to the dam for rocky slabs, lake and river views, or follow the walking trail south to the canoe landing for grassy marsh, woods, a trestle bridge and additional river views.  The south side also has access to mining pits and abandoned equipment, if you are willing to explore.

    • Meeting Location: Meet at the Waterworks Parking Lot on the south side of CO Rd 61 at Prairie River. Located east of Hwy 38 and west of Mt. Itasca. From Hwy 169, go west at the hockey arena in Coleraine, along CO Rd 61 to the river.

    • Parking: Park in the paved lot on the south side of County Road 61, or across the road along the river, at the Public Water Access or the North Country Trailhead

    • Note: No Restroom.

  • May 27 - Grand Rapids Private Residence (registration required)

    • This private residence has pond views, outbuildings, a vista overlook, and gardens and in their early growth stages.

    • Meeting Location: Registration required. See link to sign up at the top of the page.

    • Parking: Park in the driveway.

    • Restroom: Outhouse

Note from Nelia: “We meet from 9am-12noon. You are welcome to bring a lunch, or we may go out for lunch if we are in an urban area. As always, dress for the weather as paint-outs will occur rain or shine. Be prepared for sun, ticks, and mosquitoes. A couple of us really like the Thermacell brand for a non-deet option to keep some of the bugs away. Water and snacks are always a good idea. You are welcome to invite friends and spread the word. Although most of us paint, it can also be nice for folks to get out and draw too. A wide variety of mediums and all skill levels are welcome.”