The 2026 Tupper Lake Plein Air Festival is an outdoor event which shares the beauty and spirit of this historic lumberjack town, amidst the majestic Adirondack Mountains in full fall foliage. Artists from across the country and Canada will have the opportunity to capture inspiring vistas and landmarks that have long defined this iconic Adirondack town.
Scenic opportunities awaiting artistic interpretation include the winding Raquette River, with the Ox Bow and its many marshes, Bog River Falls at the headwaters of beautiful Tupper Lake, the mountains, lakes, and ponds surrounding the town, and local landmarks like the Beth Joseph Synagogue, the Wild Center, and the Oval Wood Dish factory.
Eligibility: This event is open to all Plein air artists.
Accommodation: A variety of motels, Airbnb’s and vacation rentals are available in Tupper Lake. There are also several campgrounds (with painting opportunities) nearby. As always, Tupper Arts is proud to collaborate with host families who generously offer their homes to artists for the duration of the festival. Please indicate if you require lodging at the time of registration.
Fees: Registration is $40 – the festival is an open event and all registered artists may participate. This fee entitles the artist to paint on all four the days and to submit three pieces of work for judging. You may add further pieces to show and sale, space permitting. A limited number of “day passes” will be available for $20, which include one day of Plein air painting, and one submission for judging, show and sale. Please reach out for Evie if you would like to register for a one-day pass. All entry fees are non-refundable and must be paid at the time of registration via online payment link.
Sales: Sales are handled by Tupper Arts. There will be a 30% commission retained by Tupper Arts on all Plein Air festival sales.
Canvasses are encouraged to be brought to Tupper Arts as they are completed to help facilitate the process of hanging the art. The gallery will be open until 6:00 pm on all festival days for drop off. You will also have the opportunity to use this time to frame your work if needed.
Awards:
People’s Choice:$250 Artist’s Choice:$250
1st: $1000 2nd:$500 3rd: $250