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The 2026 Port Republic Plein Air Invitational

The Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance & The Noyes Museum of Art of Stockton University have teamed up once again to present a special Plein Air event.

Port Republic Plein Air Invitational

Sunday, October 18, 2026

Harry Bowen Memorial Field • Port Republic, New Jersey
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The Port Republic Plein Air Invitational offers a fresh take on the traditional plein air experience. Rather than spanning multiple days, this exciting one-day competition challenges selected artists to create a finished work of art in just four hours. The compressed timeline raises the creative stakes, encouraging artists to trust their instincts, respond to changing light and atmosphere, and capture the essence of a place in the moment.

 

Set against the backdrop of historic Port Republic, participating artists will be assigned specific painting locations throughout the city, showcasing its unique blend of natural beauty, historic character, waterfront views, and small-town charm. Each artist will interpret a different scene, creating a diverse collection of artwork that reflects the spirit of one of New Jersey's oldest communities.

 

Every brushstroke matters. There is little time for hesitation and no opportunity for second chances. The result is a dynamic and immersive artistic challenge that rewards observation, creativity, and decisive execution. For artists, it is an opportunity to test their skills against fellow painters while competing for awards and recognition. For visitors, it offers a rare opportunity to watch works of art come to life in real time.

 

The event will feature talented regional artists working outdoors in a variety of traditional drawing and painting mediums. Artwork will be exhibited immediately following the competition, allowing guests to view and purchase original pieces inspired by Port Republic's landscapes, architecture, and waterways.

 

Proceeds from the event benefit the Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance and its ongoing efforts to support arts programming, exhibitions, and educational opportunities throughout the region.

 

A limited number of artist positions are available, including two complimentary student spots reserved for one student from Stockton University and one student from Atlantic Cape Community College. All artwork must be created on-site and in plein air using traditional drawing or painting media. Completed works will be judged by a panel of regional artists and arts professionals, with awards presented during the afternoon reception.

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Event Schedule

TBA

PRIZE STRUCTURE

Best of Show – $1,000

Second Place – $750

Third Place – $500

Honorable Mention – $100

Noyes Collection Purchase Award – $1,000

Gallery Feature – Top works displayed in the Seaview Gallery

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​How to Apply

Artists must register by August 1, 2026. To apply, please email 2–3 recent images of your artwork (at least one landscape) along with a headshot to abseconarts@gmail.com or at the link below. Only one entry per artist is allowed. Images should be submitted in JPEG format, between 800KB and 5MB. We may use your headshot and artwork in promotion of the event.

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Artist Information

All participating artists will receive a welcome packet with a campus map, local dining guide, and hotel information. Staging areas will be clearly marked, and staff will be available throughout the day to assist.

 

The Port Republic Plein Air Invitational is more than an art event—it’s a fast-paced creative challenge, a celebration of our region’s beauty, and an investment in the next generation of artists.

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We invite you to be a part of it.

 

The ACAA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. All proceeds go towards helping the ACAA fund art related events and education in the Absecon Area.

ARTIST HEADSHOT
ARTIST SAMPLE UPLOAD UP TO 3 SAMPLES
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EVENT SPONSORSHIP

Hole in One Sponsor – $1,500+

Our premier sponsorship tier with the highest level of visibility.
Includes:

  • Company logo featured prominently on the back of event t-shirts

  • Top placement on all event signage and printed materials

  • Full-screen digital ad (rotating on screen during event)

  • Recognition in all press releases and media outreach

  • Verbal acknowledgment during awards reception

  • Featured post on social media with business highlight and link

  • Name/logo listed on event webpage and sponsor thank-you email

  • Opportunity to include promo items in artist welcome bags

CHOOSE

Birdie Sponsor – $500

Great for local businesses looking to support the arts and gain exposure.
Includes:

  • Name/logo on printed signage at the event

  • Quarter-screen digital ad during event

  • Group thank-you post on social media

  • Listing on event webpage

  • Option to include promo item or coupon in artist bags

CHOOSE

Tee Sponsor – $50

Perfect for individuals or small businesses looking to make a difference.
Includes:

  • Still ad or business card-style image shown on digital screen throughout event

  • Name included on digital sponsor list on event day

CHOOSE

Eagle Sponsor – $1,000

A strong mid-tier package with significant branding benefits.
Includes:

  • Logo featured on back of event t-shirts

  • Name/logo displayed on signage at event

  • Half-screen digital ad (rotating on display during event)

  • Mention in select media releases

  • Social media thank-you post

  • Name/logo on event webpage

  • Option to include items in welcome bags

CHOOSE

Par Sponsor – $250

An affordable way to show community support and get noticed.
Includes:

  • Business name listed on signage at the event

  • Group digital ad during event slideshow

  • Name on sponsor thank-you webpage

CHOOSE

WANT TO SPONSOR THIS EVENT?

Support the arts, promote your business, and be part of a unique regional event celebrating creativity, community, and education. Sponsorship of the Port Republic Plein Air Invitational directly supports the Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance and student scholarships at Stockton University and Atlantic Cape Community College.

SPONSORSHIP LEVELS
$1,500
$1,000
$500
$250
$50

©2026 Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance is a 501c(3) organization 

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