Experience the rolling hills and vibrant colors of Historic Missouri Wine Country from April 23 through May 2 at the Augusta Plein Air Art Festival. Each year, over 100 artists carry on the tradition of painting en plein air as they replicate scenes from Augusta, Defiance, and New Melle on canvas. Visitors flock to the countryside to witness art skillfully being made as they visit wineries and local attractions. Take home a piece of the festival, completed art will be on display and offered for sale daily at the Augusta Harmonie-Verein Hall and on-site of the special events for the duration of the festival.

While visiting, find artists working en plein air throughout the region: on street corners, in vineyards, and along the Katy Trail. “Each year, we have an average of 15-20% new artists that bring a new perspective to the festival,” JoAnn Milster, President of the Greater Augusta Chamber of Commerce said. “We get to see Augusta through their eyes.”

Several Paint Out events are scheduled during the festival, taking place at multiple iconic locations like Sunflower Hill Farm, The Creative at Klondike, and Sugar Creek Winery. At Paint Outs, artists have just a few hours to capture the beauty of the property before their work is presented to judges and available to purchase. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beauty of these locations as they observe the artists at work.

“Painting en plein air is special because it’s truly in the moment, you can really feel the emotions in the paintings,” Milster said. “The artists are so talented.”

Multiple workshops throughout the event allow painters at a variety of skill levels a chance to take part in artmaking at the festival. Taught by experienced artists, workshops include “Developing Better Composition in Plein Air”, “Pastel Painting, Stick-It to Drying Time”, “Tips of the Trade, Framing”, and more.

For the more casual artist, the Sip and Paint workshop at Sugar Creek Winery is a perfect way to get creative. Painters sip on a glass of wine and enjoy snacks while bringing a scene to life on canvas. To see all the events in store for the 10-day long festival, visit the Augusta Plein Air Art Festival website.

There’s plenty to do in Historic Missouri Wine Country between watching artists at work en plein air. Visit the Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance to learn about the famous frontiersman and his family who once called this historic site home. Take a walk or a bike ride on the Katy Trail, the longest developed rail-trail in the country. Don’t forget to stop at quaint roadside boutiques, shops, and restaurants too! Complete your Historic Missouri Wine Country experience with a stay at a charming bed and breakfast or guest house.

At the end of the festival, get a chance to view the art before the final judging at the VIP Golden Ticket event on May 1. Visitors can get tickets to this exclusive event by becoming a sponsor, purchasing a painting, or from a committee member. Preview the art that was made during this year’s festival while enjoying local food and wine at this evening event.

Celebrate the festival's winning artists and shop paintings created during the duration of the festival during the grand finale Art Fair and Awards Ceremony on May 2. Browse beautiful works of plein air artwork in Augusta's town square, as over 75 artists display their new creations. The fair is a vibrant celebration with fun for the whole family, complete with live music, children's activities, an award ceremony, and scholarship announcements.

“Over the past few years, the Plein Air proceeds have gone to improving the Town Square, new swings for the community, and scholarships for local high school students going to college or trade schools,” said Milster. “The festival really means a lot to the community.”

Augusta Plein Air is a beloved local festival, as artists and tourists visit the region each year to take part in the idyllic beauty of wine country and witness art in the making. Whether you're a wine lover, art collector, or looking for a unique way to spend a beautiful spring weekend in Historic Missouri Wine Country, we think you'll love this laid-back art festival in the rolling hills of Augusta, Missouri.