Grand Rapids Area Paint-Out Schedule
Join area artists in the great outdoors for plein air paint-outs, Wednesday mornings, 9am-noon, May 14-October 29. 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.
May 14
Forest History Center, 2609 County Road 76, Grand Rapids
Forest, bogs, river, fields, horses, and so much more. There will be school field trips, so we won't be able to paint in the Logging Camp, but there are plenty of other options to enjoy. Meet at the parking lot. There are restrooms.
May 21
Tioga Beach, Tioga Beach Road, Cohasset
Beach, islands, seasonal ponds, mining pit overlook, or head over to the beach at the old Mine. Meet at the Tioga Beach Parking Lot. There are restrooms.
May 28
Minnesota North College (formerly ICC), 1851 US 169 S
Located on the NE side of town, the college has big barns, silos, fields, bog walk, orchard, and sometimes cattle on site. At the roundabout, take the second exit and follow the road to the end. There's a small parking area and we will walk from there. No restrooms.
June 4
Ravenstone -Abbey, 501 Cole Street, Coleraine
This charming old stone abbey has outdoor seating with red umbrellas and flower boxes. You can also choose to paint along the river, any of the houses, or more urban buildings. Stick around for lunch or grab a snack.
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.”