Ray Ewing, first place winner of 2011 Quick Draw
More than 30 artists are expected to descend on Chestertown April 26-29 to paint charming street scenes, rural scenes around Kent County and lively weekend activities in this historic Eastern Shore community’s third annual “Paint the Town” plein air event. Among the popular artists returning to Chestertown for “Paint the Town” are Raymond Ewing and David Diaz. Ewing has been an art instructor, active juror and guest lecturer in the Washington, DC area for over twenty-five years. His realistic watercolors have been featured in exhibitions and galleries throughout the Mid-Atlantic area. Diaz who lives in Annapolis works in oil and watercolor and is a member of the Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters. You can see the work of both artists on their respective websites: https://ray.fineartstudioonline.com/ and https://www.artworksbydaviddiaz.com/index.php. You’ll be able to watch artists work their magic as they capture the charm and vibrancy of Chestertown and its historic homes, farmer’s market and river vistas.
You will see the finished products on Saturday evening, April 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 at the “Wet Paint” sale and wine reception in the parish hall of Emmanuel Episcopal Church on Cross St. Patrons are invited to come at 4:30 p.m. for a special sneak preview before the 5 p.m. opening. Guests will be able to talk to the artists about their work and buy quality art at affordable prices.
Artists will vote on their favorite art and prizes will be awarded. An added feature this year is the invitation to all photographers to gather images of our artists painting in Chestertown followed by a display and judging of these images at the “Wet Paint” sale. Dick Lance will judge the submissions and award prizes.
Plein Air artist David Diaz in action.
“Paint the Town” concludes Sunday, April 29, with a “Quick Draw,” a timed painting event in the historic district from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. The display and judging of the artists’ Sunday morning efforts will be held in Fountain Park beginning at 11:15 and awarding prizes right before the noon opening of Chestertown’s popular Taste of the Town, whose attendees will vote for their favorite painting to win the “People’s Choice Award.”
After “Paint the Town” is over, the event host, the Chestertown Arts League, will exhibit “Second Look,” a display of the “Paint the Town” plein air works from participating artists, April 29 to May 27, with a reception on First Friday, May 4, 5- 8 p.m. at the league’s headquarters, 312 Cannon St., Chestertown.
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