2026 Paint Our River Towns

Description

Call to Artists! 5th Annual “Paint Our River Towns!”
A Plein Air Celebration of History and Natural Beauty
Join AOY Art Center for the 5th Annual Paint Our River Towns plein air open, celebrating the rich history and scenic beauty within 35 miles of Yardley, Bucks County, PA—including select areas of New Jersey.
This event showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the Delaware River, charming river towns, and surrounding areas through the eyes of talented artists. We are proud to present this event in collaboration with Countryside Gallery, Experience Yardley and the Friends of Washington Crossing Park.
Plein air painters, pastelists, and other artists are invited to participate in this dynamic celebration of art and nature.
This year we are pleased to announce that Charles Newman will be the Judge of Awards. An accomplished plein air painter, Charles has received numerous awards from Plein Air Festivals along the east coast, and was featured in the Aug/Sept 2018 issue of Plein Air Magazine and Southwest Art Magazine for the “Five Artists to Watch.” He was also awarded First Place overall for the 2022 Cape Ann Plein Air Festival, 2023 Plein Air Easton, 2023 Plein Air in the Smokies, and the American Impressionist Society’s 8th Annual Small Works Showcase in 2024. He resides in the Philadelphia region.
Key Dates
Canvas or Paper Stamping at AOY Art Center
Saturday, April 4, 10 AM - 2 PMSaturday, April 11 12 - 2 PMOr by appointment 
Plein Air Painting Window
April 12 – May 3
Drop-off Entries
Saturday, May 9, 12 - 2 PM ORSunday, May 10, 12 - 2 PM Or by appointment prior to the above dates
Artists Reception and Awards Presentation
Friday, May 15, 6 - 8 PM (Awards presented at 7 PM)
Exhibition and Sales
May 16 - June 7Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, 12 - 5 PMOnline gallery available 24/7
Pickup Unsold Works
Sunday, June 7, 5 - 7 PMMonday, June 8, 10 AM - NoonOr by appointment

Awards
First Place: $500 Second Place: $300Third Place: $200Honorable Mentions (2): $150 Gift Certificates sponsored by Jerry’s ArtaramaBest First Time Plein Air Artist: $100 (sponsored by Melanie Pease)

Who Can Enter?
This regional event is open to artists age 18 and older residing within 35 miles of Yardley, PA. Registration is on a first-come basis, and the total number of participants is capped at 75. Artwork is not juried. Registered artists will receive additional information via email.

How to Register
Click here to register online. Your confirmation email will contain a link to ArtCall where you will upload your work. If you do not already have an ArtCall account you will need to create one before logging in and uploading. 
Registration Fee
$40 for AOY members$55 for non-members
Registration Deadline: April 11, 2026

Guidelines
Canvas or Paper StampingAll canvases or papers must be stamped at AOY Art Center, 949 Mirror Lake Road, Yardley, PA 19067, to ensure artworks are created during the designated time frame. Stamping will occur:
Saturday, April 4, 10 AM - 2 PMSaturday, April 11, 12 - 2 PMBy appointment - contact Bette Sovinee at director@aoyarts.org
Artists may have multiple surfaces stamped, but artwork size cannot exceed 36 inches on any edge (unframed).
Plein Air PaintingPaint within the window of April 12 – May 3. Work should be created primarily en plein air. 
Submitting WorksEach artist may submit up to three framed works for judging and sale. Works must be:
No larger than 36 inches on any edge (unframed)Framed and wired (with D-rings) for hangingLabeled on the back with Title, Artist’s Name, Medium, and Price
Images of all entries must also be uploaded into ArtCall for inclusion in the online gallery. When you register for the show you will receive a link to ArtCall. If you do not already have an ArtCall account you will need to create one before logging in and uploading your work. All images must be uploaded into ArtCall prior to Friday, May 8, 11:59 PM.
Drop Off: Dates and times to drop off art at the Center are:
Saturday, May 9, 12 - 2 PM ORSunday, May 10, 12 - 2 PM  Or by appointment prior to the above dates
Exhibition Dates
Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, 12 - 5 PMFridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, May 22 - June 7, 12 - 5 PM24/7 online at aoyarts.org
Awards and SalesAwards will be presented during the Artists Reception on May 15 at 7 PM. AOY will handle sales, retaining a 30% commission. Payments to artists will be processed within 14 days of the following month’s start.
Volunteering Requirement
Participating Artists must volunteer as Gallery Hosts for at least 2.5 hours during the exhibition. Click here to sign up for a shift. Persons with physical challenges should still enter.
Media and Public Relations
AOY reserves the right to use digital images of entered artwork for promotional purposes.
Liability
AOY will take reasonable care of artwork but is not responsible for damage or loss.
Agreement
By submitting artwork, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined in this prospectus. AOY reserves the right to reject any work that is not professionally presented, improperly wired, or delivered late.

About AOY Art Center 
Founded in 2004, AOY Art Center is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with over 320 members. AOY is dedicated to nurturing the community’s creative spirit through education and engagement in the arts. Visit us at www.aoyarts.org

ATTACH TO BACK OF ACCEPTED WORK: 
Name_________________________________________________ 
Phone_________________________________________________ 
Title___________________________________________________ 
Medium_______________________________________________ 
Price_________________________________________________ 
ATTACH TO BACK OF ACCEPTED WORK: 
Name_________________________________________________ 
Phone_________________________________________________ 
Title___________________________________________________ 
Medium_______________________________________________ 
Price_________________________________________________ 
ATTACH TO BACK OF ACCEPTED WORK: 
Name_________________________________________________ 
Phone_________________________________________________ 
Title___________________________________________________ 
Medium_______________________________________________ 
Price_________________________________________________ 

User Entry Process Tutorial
Here's a quick tutorial your to help you with the submission process.