Art in the Park brings plein air artists to Ocean Park July 21-24

 You may run into an artist or two making Ocean Park their natural habitat for the next few days.

The annual Art in the Park pein air festival starts Sunday, July 21 and runs through Wednesday, July 24.

According to the Artists Network website, “Plein Air painting is about leaving the four walls of your studio and behind and experiencing painting and drawing in the landscape.”

The six selected artists hail from all over New England and offer a range of artistic styles, including pastel, watercolor and impressionistic paintings.

The artists will be scattered through the community at one of the many picturesque spots and may be found at the beach, among the tall pines, near the march or in front of a historic building.

The artists’ whereabouts will be posted every day on a sandwich board outside Jakeman Hall, 14 Temple Ave.

Unlike many plein air events, Art in the Park is not a competition, said Ocean Park Association member Frank Gwalthney. This makes it a more relaxed event for artists and promotes fellowship.

And if you see an artist, don’t be shy. Engaging with them is encouraged, and this is also an educational opportunity to learn about art for Ocean Parkers and those visiting the area, said Gwalthney.

A “meet the artists” event will be held from 4-6 p.m. Monday at the Bandstand, 11 Temple Ave, with refreshments served at the nearby Jakeman Hall.

The four-day event will culminate with an exhibit and wet paint sale from 5 – 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, at The Temple, 50 Temple Ave.

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.