Red River Arts Fest - En Plein Air 2026

Congratulations to the 2026 Winners!

  • Best of Show – The New Courthouse by Amelia Leslie
  • First Place – On the Way to Bonham by Vidya Lakshmi Nikesh Anand
  • Second Place – Bonham Heritage Day Festival by Tatiana Murray Suvorova
  • Third Place – Morning Still Comes by Susan Annand
  • Honorable Mention – Smokehouse by Megan Reynolds
  • People Choice Award – to be determined

Art Sherpa Awards:

  • Beneath the Brown by Art Jones
  • Morning Shadows by James Gilbreath
  • My Cactus by Chris Cravens
  • Midnight at Neighbors Place Winery by Heidi Kidd

Read more

Save the Dates for 2027 En Plein Air: April 30 & May 1, 2026

We are excited to host En Plein Air Contest & Auction as part of Red River Arts Fest 2026!

Artists will have chances to win cash prizes AND sell their artwork in a live auction or in our gallery.

The community will have a chance to watch the artists in action – on Friday night (May 1) at Neighbors Place Winery and on Saturday (May 2) in locations in and around Bonham.  Collectors will also have a chance to purchase one-of-a-kind artwork depicting various beloved scenes from around the Bonham area.

All are invited to the opening reception on Saturday, May 2, starting at 5:00 pm at the Creative Arts Center.  The awards ceremony will start at 5:30 pm, immediately followed by the live art auction. Artwork not sold in the live auction will be on display in the gallery and available for purchase during the month of May.

Registration for Artists is now open.  Look for the REGISTER button below or stop by the center during normal business hours to sign up in person.  SCAMMER ALERT – if any individual says you can contact them to register, they are a scammer.

Thank you to the Bonham Economic Developement Corporation for sponsoring this contest!

Thank you to all of the following businesses and individuals for contributing items to the goodie bags for the Artists!

  • Austin College
  • Bonham Economic Development Corporation
  • Community National Bank
  • Credit Union of Texas
  • Fannin Bank
  • Fannin County Children’s Center
  • First United Bank
  • Grandma’s Cottage
  • Legend Bank
  • Sandy Barber Designs
  • Texas Farm Bureau
  • TXB
  • Visit Bonham

Schedule

Friday, May 1 – at Neighbors Place Winery, 205 W. Third, Bonham

  • 5-6 pm: Meet & Greet and Check in for Plein Air Nocturnal Painting
  • 6-9 pm: Plein Air Nocturnal Painting at Neighbors Place Winery

Saturday, May 2 – at Creative Arts Center, 200 W Fifth, Bonham

  • 7:30 – 9:00 am: Check in for Saturday Plein Air & turn in Nocturnal Paintings; Go paint after done checking in
  • 2:00 – 3:00 pm: Turn in Plein Air Artwork
  • 3:00 – 5:00 pm: Artwork hanging & judging
  • 5:00 pm: Opening Reception Starts
  • 5:30 pm: Awards Ceremony & Live Auction

Entry Fees

  • Members – $25 early bird or $35 after early bird deadline
  • Non-members – $35 early bird or $45 after early bird deadline
  • Early Bird deadline – noon on Friday, April 24
  • Entry fees are refundable IF the artist requests a refund by email to director@CreativeArtsCenterBonham.org before noon on Friday, April 24, less a $10 processing fee.
  • Entry fees are not refundable after noon on Friday, April 24.
  • An artist can choose to transfer their registration to another artist by notifying the Director by email at director@CreativeArtsCenterBonham.org.

FAQ

1. Can I prep my canvas?

Yes, you can prep your canvas in any solid color.

2. Where can I go paint?

You can go to any location of your choice in the Bonham area.

3. Does my artwork need to be framed?

We strongly encourage artists to frame their artwork.  We will accept gallery wrapped canvases that do not have a frame.  All artwork must have a wire on the back so we can easily hang it in our gallery.

4. Are there any size limitations?

No. Your choice of how big or small your canvas is.

5. What mediums are accepted?

Oils, acrylics, watercolors, oil pastels, pencil, charcoal, ink, pastels and mixed media.

No photography or sculptures.

6. Can I register on-site?

Yes, we will accept on-site registrations on Saturday morning at the center.  Although artists are strongly encouraged to sign up online, as it will speed up the check-in process.

7. How many pieces of art can I submit?

Artists can submit up to three pieces of art to be considered for the cash prizes. Artists will need to select one piece to be in the live auction and the others will be in the gallery sales.

8. On Friday night, do I have to paint at Neighbors Place Winery?

Yes, painting on Friday night must be at Neighbors Place Winery.  There will be several places inside and outside to paint.  We do ask that painters stay at this location for safety reasons, as it will eventually start to get dark.

 

Questions

Contact the Center Director Sandy Barber at (903) 640-2196 or Director@CreativeArtsCenterBonham.org

Cash Prizes

 Thanks to generous sponsors, we are excited to offer the a grand total of $1850 in cash prizes for our Plein Air Contest!

  • $500 for Best of Show
  • $400 for First Place
  • $300 for Second Place
  • $200 for Third Place
  • $200 for People’s Choice Award  
  • $25 for Honorable Mention
  • Four “Art Sherpa” Awards sponsored by Reggie Cusick – one $100 award, two $50 awards and one $25 award

Rules & Other Important Information

1. Artists must bring all their own canvases, frames, supplies, chairs, tools, etc. Please note, no outside food or drinks can be brought it to Neighbors Place Winery.
2. At check-in, the center will stamp all canvases that the artist intends to use, to ensure that no one started early! Artists who choose to paint on Friday night will check in at the Winery, get a canvas stamped & then turn in that painting on Saturday morning at the Creative Arts Center & then get additional canvas(es) stamped for the Saturday painting.
3. Artists have chance to win cash prizes, which will be given out at the awards ceremony on Saturday at 5:30 pm
4. Artists are strongly encouraged to make their artwork available for sale. When turning in artwork, artists will be asked for their minimum starting bid for the auction and their gallery sale price. The Center will attempt to sell all artwork either in live auction on Saturday evening or in the gallery during the month of May.
5. Sale price will be split 80% to artist and 20% to center.
6. Checks for sales made during the auction will be prepared the following week and mailed to the artists. Check for sales made from the gallery during the month of May will be prepared in early June and mailed to artists.
7. Artists can choose to have their artwork labeled “Not For Sale.” In this situation, the center would still like to exhibit the artwork for the month of May, if gallery space is available.
8. Artwork that does not sell shall be picked up by the artist during normal business hours May 29- June 4. Normal business hours are Tuesday – Friday 10 am to 5 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon. If an artist cannot pick up during these times, they should contact the center Director or Coordinator at (903) 640-2196 to make alternative arrangements.
9. Participating in the Nocturnal Painting time on Friday evening at Neighbors Place Winery is optional and does not cost extra.
10. Artists can submit up to 3 pieces of artwork.
11. All artwork must have a wire on the back suitable for hanging. No sawtooth hangers.
12. Artists should ensure that the artist name, artwork title, artwork medium and price (if any) are included on the back of the artwork.
13. The CAC Director reserves the right to reject any work deemed inappropriate for any reason.
14. The Creative Arts Center, its staff, and volunteers will not be held responsible for damage to artwork.

Contest Judge: Lori Cusick

Lori Cusick is an award-winning contemporary painter known for her vibrant color and expressive brushwork, capturing the energy and atmosphere of a place in the moment it’s
experienced. Painting primarily en plein air, she travels across the country to participate in juried events, earning recognition for work that is both dynamic and inviting.

Inspired by the landscape’s shifting light and subtle drama, Cusick takes a bold, physical approach to painting, creating pieces that feel alive and immersive—drawing in artists and
collectors alike.

Raised in the mountains of New York, she earned her BFA from Pratt Institute and now lives in Dallas. Her work can be found in galleries, plein air events, and private collections nationwide.

As judge for the inaugural plein air event Red River Arts Fest Plein Air Contest & Auction, Cusick brings both professional expertise and a genuine enthusiasm for the plein air community. She values work that feels fresh, honest, and fully observed, encouraging artists to take risks, trust their instincts, and enjoy the process.

Painting locations

Friday’s Nocturnal Painting will be at Neighbors Place Winery at 205 W. Third, Bonham.  Artist will have a variety of scenes available for painting, both inside and outside the winery.

Saturday’s Painting locations will be Artist Choice – in and around Bonham, Texas.  A few suggestions of places to go include:

  • Courthouse & downtown square
  • Sam Rayburn House 
  • Sam Rayburn Library
  • Fannin County History Museum & their real train out front
  • Powder Creek Park
  • Simpson Park
  • Catron Park
  • Lake Bonham
  • Bois d’Arc Lake
  • Historic Post Office
  • Wise Funeral Home
  • Red River Car Show – on Main Street, just north of 5th Street (two blocks away from the center) on May 2

 

Lodging Options

Bonham area has several overnight lodging options for out of town folks.  Here are a few suggestions.  Check back soon – we hope that some of these places may offer a special discount to those who are participating in this event.

  • Caney Acres – Airbnb – 10% discount already posted on their booking site
  • Carleton House Bed and Breakfast  10% discount off a two night booking, cash only payment – call (903) 583-2779 and mention the Creative Arts Center Plein Air event to get the discount at the time of booking
  • Four Winds Victorian Venue and Suites
  • Holiday Inn Express Bonham  use the code CAC26 to get 15 to 20% off your booking
  • Grandma’s Cottage – Airbnb – 10% discount already posted on their booking site
  • The Lodge at Parker Place – call Dana at 903-227-0508 and mention the Creative Arts Center’s Plein Air Contest to get a $50 discount per night

En Plein Air Etiquette:

 

  • Don’t block paths, doors, or views
    Set up to the side. If someone has to squeeze past you, you’re in the way.

  • Be approachable, not captive
    A smile and a quick “Thanks for your interest!” is enough—you’re not required to teach a class mid-painting.

  • Expect curiosity
    People will watch. It’s okay to say:

    “I’m trying to catch the light right now, but I’m happy to chat after.”

  • Never paint people clearly without consent
    General crowds = fine. Identifiable individuals = ask first.

Respect the place

  • Leave no trace
    Pack out everything—especially paint water, rags, or wipes.

  • Never dump paint water on the ground
    This is a big one. Take it home, even for watercolor.

  • Follow posted rules
    Some parks, museums, or historic sites restrict easels or tripods.

  • Private property = ask
    Even if it’s “just a quick sketch.”

Respect other artists

  • Don’t set up in someone’s line of sight
    If you see another painter already working, give them space.

  • No copying in real time
    Painting the same scene is fine; mirroring their composition is not.

  • Keep critiques invited only
    Compliments? Always welcome. Advice? Only if asked.

Safety & common sense

  • Be aware of your surroundings
    Especially near roads, cliffs, or water.

  • Trust your gut
    If a spot feels off, pack up. No painting is worth discomfort.

  • Mind weather changes
    Wind + easels = chaos. Secure everything.

Sound, smell & footprint

  • Keep music personal
    Headphones over speakers.

  • Mind strong solvent smells
    Go odorless in shared spaces.

  • Keep your setup compact
    Small footprint = fewer problems.

Quiet artist rules (the nice stuff)

  • Greet people who greet you.

  • Thank landowners or staff.

  • Share the joy—kids especially love seeing art in the wild.

  • If someone compliments your work: just say thank you. No self-roasting

 

What to Bring

  • Painting Essentials

  • Paint

    • Oils, acrylics, or watercolors (bring a limited palette—outdoors you don’t need 20 colors)

  • Brushes

    • A few reliable sizes + one you don’t mind abusing

  • Surface

    • Canvas panels, watercolor paper, sketchbook, or linen panels

    • Panel carrier or cardboard + clips

  • Palette

    • Lightweight palette, palette paper, or sealed travel palette

  • Easel or support

    • French easel, pochade box, tripod easel, or even a lap board

Medium-specific extras

For oil painters

  • Solvent (odorless mineral spirits) or solvent-free medium

  • Small containers with tight lids

  • Rags or paper towels

  • Palette knife

For acrylic painters

  • Water container (spill-proof if possible)

  • Spray bottle (to keep paint wet)

  • Stay-wet palette (optional but great)

For watercolor painters

  • Water containers (2 is ideal: clean + dirty)

  • Tissues or sponge

  • Masking tape or board clips

Comfort & survival items (don’t skip these)

  • Hat or cap (sun glare is brutal)

  • Sunscreen

  • Bug spray

  • Layered clothing (weather lies)

  • Comfortable shoes

  • Folding stool or lightweight chair

  • Water + snack (hanger ruins paintings)

Practical outdoor tools

  • Paper towels / wipes

  • Trash bag (leave no trace)

  • Small umbrella or clamp-on shade

  • Phone for reference photos (light changes fast!)

  • Viewfinder or cardboard frame

  • Paper weights or clips (wind is the enemy)

Transport & protection

  • Backpack or shoulder bag

  • Wet panel carrier or wax paper + spacers

  • Zip-lock bags for messy items

Pro tips

  • Pack lighter than you think—you’ll walk farther than planned.

  • Limit colors; nature already mixes beautifully.

  • Do a quick value sketch before starting—light changes, values don’t.