Telluride is a dynamic community—a hub of constant motion, with people hiking, biking and running, an endless churning of the gondola and traffic and dramatic, fickle weather. Which only makes it more amazing that the plein air artists who come here every year are able to capture a scene in a painting, stopping time for a moment.
The Plein Air Festival is the Sheridan Arts Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year. It’s also an opportunity to pick up an incredible piece of art—whether you attend the silent auction and gala on Saturday night (it’s free this year, and features rockabilly music by Jason Williams) or stroll through the tents on Oak Street in front of the Opera House, there are so many talented artists who come here to create that you are bound to find that one perfect painting. There is also a fun-to-watch “quick draw” competition this evening from 5-7:30, a 90-minute contest challenging artists to set up along Colorado Avenue and create a masterpiece in a short amount of time. These paintings are also for sale.
Starting this evening and through the 4th of July passersby will be able to browse and enjoy the art on display, but one tip: don’t forget your wallet. Often the one piece you fall in love with is gone the next time you stroll by.