5th Annual Morgan Hill Plein Air Paint Out
Paint Out Event: Thursday, April 30th – Sunday, May 3rd, 2026
Exhibition Dates: Sunday, May 3rd – Sunday, June 28th, 2026
Upcoming Programming:
- Live Painting Event: Watch the artists paint live! Kids and pets welcome | Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 from 2-5PM | FREE and open to the public
- Plein Air Paint Out Reception: Join us for a "wet paint sale," awards ceremony, live music, and refreshments | Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 from 4-6PM | FREE and open to the public | Cura Contemporary, 17395 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Learn more about these events on our events page here.
RSVP to the Opening Reception on Eventbrite here
What is the Morgan Hill Plein Air Paint Out?
The Morgan Hill Plein Air Paint Out is an annual event that brings together several accomplished artists from across California. Over the course of three days, these professional painters work outdoors within a 20-mile radius of Morgan Hill, capturing the region’s diverse and beautiful landscapes. The event culminates in more than 70 completed paintings, which are judged and recognized with awards. We are thrilled to welcome artist Paul Kratter as the judge for this year’s invitational.
What is plein air?
“Plein air” is a French term meaning painting outdoors, on location. This approach allows artists to respond directly to their surroundings, capturing natural light, shifting color, and movement, resulting in works that convey the true spirit of a place and moment.