Call to Artists for the 7th Annual Gulfport Plein Air Festival

The Gulfport Merchants Chamber invites artists working in all mediums/substrates to join the Seventh Annual Gulfport Plein Air Festival April 13-18 2026. 

Registration opens November 13th, 2025 to artists 18 and older. Registration fee is $40. Registration deadline: March 31, 2026. Link to register: https://www.cloudfolios.com/exhibitions/330

Bring canvases to the Gulfport Welcome Center (5317 Gulfport Blvd) for stamping at the Artist Meet & Greet on Monday April 13th 4-6pm. (canvas stamping also available on Tuesday)

Paint Gulfport’s scenic locations and submit your favorite painting on Friday April 17th at the Gulfport Merchant Chamber Welcome Center between 1-2 PM and 4-5pm.

Registration includes a plein air workshop on Saturday, April 18th 10am-12 pm with award-winning artist/instructor Jack Providenti. Jack originated the idea of this plein air event 7 years ago!

Join us for the festival finale Exhibition & Collector’s Sale on April 18th from 4-6pm with prizes and awards! Artists must be present. Exhibition awards will be decided by judges Judith Villavisanis and Margo Dalgetty.

$300 cash award for Best in Show and the following fun awards will each receive a Blick gift card worth $50.

1.      Spirit of Gulfport – the piece that best embodies the fun and funky atmosphere of Gulfport
   2.      Gecko Award – best incorporation of a gecko in a painting.
   3.      Best Tree Award – best expression of a tree

Event Schedule:

Monday 4-6 PM, Artist Meet & Greet and debrief, canvas stamping

Tuesday 10-1 - Artists paint the town (and canvas stamping) – Downtown Gulfport (Tues Market)

Wednesday 9:30-12:30 - Artists paint the town – Gulfport Beach

Thursday 7PM - Artists paint the town – Evening Nocturne at Gulfport Beach

Friday 9:30-12:30 – Artists paint the town – Marina. Artists drop off paintings for the exhibit at Welcome Center by 5pm.

Saturday 10-12 - Plein Air Workshop/Demo at Veteran's Park

Saturday – 4-6 PM Exhibition Reception, Awards & Collectors Sale

For updates, festival map and additional details, visit the event website at https://visitgulfportflorida.com/events/

Local Lodging:  Peninsula Bed & Cocktails - Use promo code ART to receive 20% off of your stay! 

Questions? Contact art@visitgulfportflorida.com.