2026 Port Republic Juried Plein Air Invitational

Sunday, October 18, 2026

Harry Bowen Memorial Field • Port Republic, New Jersey

The Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance is pleased to present the 2026 Port Republic Juried Plein Air Invitational, a one-day painting competition celebrating the beauty, history, and character of Port Republic.

Unlike traditional plein air festivals that span multiple days, this fast-paced event challenges artists to create a finished work of art in just four hours. Working outdoors and on location, artists must respond to changing light, weather, and atmosphere while capturing the unique spirit of one of New Jersey's oldest communities.

Historic architecture, scenic waterways, wooded landscapes, and hidden local treasures provide endless inspiration as participating artists spread throughout Port Republic to paint, draw, and create. The result is a diverse collection of original artwork produced entirely on-site and in real time.

For artists, the Port Republic Juried Plein Air Invitational offers an exciting opportunity to compete for awards, recognition, and exhibition opportunities. For visitors, it provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process as works of art emerge from blank canvases throughout the day.

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.

Juried Artist Participation

Participation in the Port Republic Juried Plein Air Invitational is limited to 40 artists.

Artists wishing to be considered must submit three images of recent artwork no later than August 1, 2026. Submissions must include the artist's full name, mailing address, email address, and valid telephone number. Incomplete submissions will not be considered for jurying.

A distinguished featured juror will review all submissions, and selected artists will be notified after August 15, 2026.

Artists accepted into the event will then be invited to complete registration and submit the $50 participation fee. No payment is required during the jurying process.

Two complimentary student positions will be reserved, one for a student from Stockton University and one for a student from Atlantic Cape Community College.

All artwork must be created on-site during the competition using traditional drawing or painting media. Photography and digitally created artwork are not eligible.

Event Schedule

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM Artist Check-In and Canvas Stamping

9:30 AM – 1:30 PM Plein Air Competition

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Port Republic Quick Draw Challenge

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM Artwork Submission and Public Viewing

1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Reception and Exhibition

3:30 PM Awards Presentation

4:00 PM Selected Artwork Transported to Seaview Gallery Exhibition

Awards & Recognition

Best of Show – $1,000

Second Place – $750

Third Place – $500

Honorable Mention – $100

Quickdraw Draw Challenge Award – $50

Noyes Collection Purchase Award – $1,000

Gallery Feature – Top works displayed in the Seaview Gallery

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

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.