Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to rolling countryside, make it a paradise for plein air painters. Across the country, several festivals celebrate the art of painting outdoors, bringing together local and international artists to capture Ireland’s ever-changing light and scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a newcomer, these festivals offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in art and meet other artists and have a great time.
Top Plein Air Festivals in Ireland
1. Art in the Open – Wexford
📍 Where: Wexford Town & Surroundings
📅 When: Late July – Early August
🎨 Why Go? As the largest plein air festival in Europe, Art in the Open attracts artists from around the world. The event features daily paint-outs at stunning locations like Hook Head and Kilmore Quay, workshops with top plein air painters, and an exhibition showcasing the finished works.
2. Dublin Plein Air Festival
📍 Where: Dublin & Surrounding Counties
📅 When: June
🎨 Why Go? This week-long festival offers diverse painting locations around North County Dublin , from the coastal charm of Skerries to the Botanical Gardens . It includes workshopss, and a daily easel display with prizes.
3. Louth Plein Air Festival
📍 Where: County Louth
📅 When: Summer (exact dates vary)
🎨 Why Go? This festival highlights the beauty of Louth’s coastal and rural scenery. Featuring group paint-outs in picturesque villages and along the coastline, it’s a fantastic opportunity to paint in a relaxed and supportive environment.
5. Signal Arts Plein Air – Bray
📍 Where: Bray, County Wicklow
📅 When: Summer (part of the wider Signal Arts Festival)
🎨 Why Go? Hosted by the Signal Arts Centre, this plein air event is part of a broader arts festival celebrating creativity in Bray. With the dramatic Wicklow coastline and Bray Head as backdrops, it’s a wonderful setting for outdoor painting.
6. Kinvara Plein Air Festival
📍 Where: Kinvara, County Galway
📅 When: Summer (check local listings for dates)
🎨 Why Go? Kinvara, a charming coastal village on Galway Bay, provides stunning maritime and rural scenes for plein air artists. With its vibrant artistic community and stunning views of the Burren.
Conclusion
Plein air festivals in Ireland provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the country through art, connect with fellow painters, and experience the beauty of Irish landscapes firsthand. Whether you choose the lively atmosphere of Art in the Open or the intimate charm of Kinvara, each festival offers a unique perspective on Ireland’s natural beauty.