This is a tentative, volunteer-dependent indoor event this year on a Saturday in August.  If we can't do it in August, we could plan it for March of 2027.

Plein Air Expo, Easel & Art Supply Swap (Tentative Event)

We’re planning a fun, hands-on indoor event designed to bring artists together, share knowledge, and make it easier for beginners to get started in plein air painting.

👉 This event is volunteer-supported and will be scheduled once enough interest is confirmed.

Tentative timing:

• Saturday in August (or March 2027 if needed)

• 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Setup begins around 12:00 noon

Location:

• Virginia State Arboretum (Blandy) 

Advertising:  Facebook Marketplace and Free EventBrite

What to Expect

This event includes several simple, engaging components:

Expo (Artist Setups)

Volunteers will display their plein air setups—showing how they paint in their chosen medium.

• Set up your easel or stool with your supplies

• Label your setup so others can learn what it is

• Optional: give a short demonstration

👉 Many people want to try plein air but don’t know where to begin—this makes it approachable.

Optional:

• You may offer your setup for sale

• If possible, keep displays available until later in the day

Plein Air Checklists

Helpful handouts will be available for beginners.

• Lists of recommended supplies by medium

• Suggestions for both budget-friendly and artist-grade options

👉 These will also be shared on the website after the event.

Art Supply Swap (Fundraiser)

A simple, organized way to buy and sell gently used, new or like new art supplies.

• Every item needs a price plus seller name.

• Easels for sale or as demos, should be set up either indoors or outdoors.  Include a short description of the easel and its usage.

• Other art supplies are displayed on tables for easy browsing

• Sellers must be present to accept the sale directly from the seller.

Why This Event Matters

✔ For Buyers

• Find affordable, gently used, or like new supplies

• Learn directly from experienced artists

• Skip shipping costs by buying in person

✔ For Sellers

• Earn money from unused supplies

• Sell in a safe, public setting

• Option to donate a suggested 10% of sale to support Blandy and NSPA by cash

✔ Donations 

• Split 50/50 NSPA and the State Arboretum.

• Support future activities and website expenses, badges, signage.

• Show appreciation to Blandy for free space for our group and beautiful gardens. 

Welcoming All Artists

This event is beginner-friendly and open to all.

Youth artists are welcome when accompanied by a parent and actively participating.

👉 If you enjoy teaching or working with younger artists, we’d love your help in this area.

Want to Help?

This event depends on volunteers to bring it to life.

Ways to help include:

• Setting up an expo display

• Creating supply checklists

• Assisting with setup or sales

• Helping with promotion

👉 See the sign-up section below to get involved.