There’s Still Time to Apply: 2026 Port Republic Plein Air Invitational

Jul 28
2 min read

There’s Still Time to Apply! 2026 Port Republic Plein Air Invitational

There’s Still Time to Submit Your Work for Jury Consideration!

2026 Port Republic Juried Plein Air Invitational

Featuring a $1,000 Best of Show Prize

Sunday, October 18, 2026 Harry Bowen Memorial Field • Port Republic, New Jersey

Artists still have time to apply for the 2026 Port Republic Juried Plein Air Invitational, but the submission deadline is quickly approaching.

Artists wishing to be considered must submit three images of recent artwork by August 1, 2026. There is no application fee, and payment is only required if an artist is accepted into the event.

The Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance is pleased to present this 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 will be 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, purchase awards, and exhibition opportunities. For visitors, the event provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process as works of art emerge from blank canvases throughout the day.

Proceeds 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 is limited to 40 selected artists.

Artists wishing to be considered must submit three images of recent artwork no later than August 1, 2026.

Submissions must include:

Artist’s full name
Mailing address
Email address
Valid telephone number
Three images of recent artwork

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

8:30–9:30 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

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

1:30–4:00 PM Reception and Exhibition

3:30 PM Awards Presentation

4:00 PM Selected Artwork Transported to the Seaview Gallery Exhibition

Awards and Recognition

Best of Show: $1,000 Second Place: $750 Third Place: $500 Honorable Mention: $100 Quick Draw Challenge Award: $50 Noyes Collection Purchase Award: $1,000 Gallery Feature: Top works displayed at the Seaview Gallery

The deadline is approaching. Submit your artwork by August 1, 2026, for an opportunity to be selected for this exciting one-day plein air competition.