Award Winners

DA Davidson Professional Plein Air Awards

Previous Best of Show Winners

In 2013, Emiliya Lane's Best In Show painting was also selected for the Plein Air Wine label. The 2014 competition awarded Bruce Gomez First Place ($750), Ned Mueller Second Place ($500), and Jane Wallis Third Place ($300). In 2013, Susan Ogilvie took First Place ($500), Irina Kirienko Milton took Second Place ($300), and Robin Paul Weiss took Third Place ($200).

The annual plein air painting competition brings together talented artists from across the region to capture the stunning landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula. Participants set up easels along shorelines, in meadows, and beside mountain vistas, translating the area's remarkable natural light and color onto canvas. Each year, a distinguished panel of jurors reviews the submitted works, selecting those that best demonstrate technical skill and artistic vision. The event not only celebrates the tradition of painting outdoors but also connects artists with the community, fostering an appreciation for both fine art and the protected wilderness that surrounds Port Angeles.

Awards are presented in multiple categories, recognizing excellence across various styles and mediums. The Best of Show honor stands as the highest achievement, while additional awards highlight exceptional use of color, composition, and atmospheric perspective. These recognitions carry significant prestige within the plein air community, often leading to increased visibility for emerging and established artists alike. The judging process itself is rigorous, with jurors evaluating each piece for its ability to convey a sense of place and moment. Past winners have included works ranging from intimate coastal scenes to expansive mountain panoramas.

The competition spans a full week each August, with artists traveling from throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond. During this time, participants explore iconic locations while also discovering lesser-known gems across the peninsula. Many artists return year after year, drawn by the quality of light and the welcoming atmosphere of the event. Public demonstrations and painting sessions allow visitors to observe creative techniques firsthand. The schedule is designed to balance productive studio time with opportunities for artists to connect with one another and share their passion for painting en plein air.

The Port Angeles Fine Arts Center serves as the heart of the event, hosting the exhibition and awards ceremony. This nonprofit cultural organization has long been dedicated to bringing visual arts to the Olympic Peninsula community. Proceeds from the competition directly support the center's ongoing programming, including educational workshops, gallery exhibitions, and outreach initiatives. The partnership between the competition and the arts center creates a sustainable model that benefits both artists and the local community. Visitors to the center during the competition week can view the evolving body of work created throughout the region.

Planning for each year's competition begins months in advance, with careful consideration given to venues, sponsors, and participant experience. A dedicated team of staff and volunteers coordinates every aspect of the event, from artist registration to the final awards reception. The competition has grown steadily since its inception, attracting increasing numbers of applicants and visitors. This growth reflects the enduring appeal of plein air painting as an artistic practice and the unique character of the Olympic Peninsula as a subject. The event remains committed to its mission of celebrating art, nature, and community in equal measure.