Plein air paintouts are all the rage, and what better region to feature them than the cradle of America’s first landscape art movement, the Hudson River School of painting? For the fourth year running, Historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz is organizing its Artists on the Street event this Saturday, August 13, rain or shine.
Beginning at 11 a.m., more than 20 talented and approachable Hudson Valley-based artists will take up their positions, setting up their easels at pleasing vantagepoints among the Colonial-era stone houses of the Huguenot Street National Historic Landmark District. They will sketch, pastel and paint what they see throughout the day, chatting with passersby as they work. It’s great fun to stroll around the area, sneaking peeks over the artists’ shoulders and learning about their artistic philosophy and technique. Curbside Cuisine will also be on-site for guests’ enjoyment, and will donate a portion of their sales to Historic Huguenot Street.
By 4 p.m., the artworks are supposed to be finished and handed in for display in the DuBois Fort (81 Huguenot Street) or a nearby tent. An hourlong catered reception will then ensue, during which you can sip and nibble while you admire the paintings or even purchase that special one that you’ve had your eye on all day.
Admission to the Artists on the Street event, including the reception, is absolutely free. For more information, call (845) 255-1660 or visit www.huguenotstreet.org.
Join the family! 
