“PRINCETON BATTLEFIELD, N.J.”: Eric Malave’s painting depicts a view looking southeast across Princeton Battlefield State Park. Artists will have an opportunity to paint from their own vantage point amongst fellow plein air enthusiasts on Sunday, June 14.
The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP), in partnership with the Princeton Battlefield Society, invite artists and history enthusiasts alike to spend Sunday, June 14, immersed in art and history at Princeton Battlefield State Park.
From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., a Plein Air Paint Out encourages artists of all skill levels to leave the studio behind and create work in one of New Jersey’s most historically significant landscapes. Held in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, the Paint Out offers participants the opportunity to capture the sweeping grounds where the Battle of Princeton unfolded.
Located just minutes from downtown, the battlefield invites artists to walk in the footsteps of George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and General Hugh Mercer while exploring the site’s rich history. Participants may draw inspiration from key landmarks, including the Thomas Clarke House, built in 1772 and the only surviving structure from the battle, which served as a field hospital for both American and British soldiers. Artists may also interpret the legacy of the Mercer Oak, long associated with Gen. Hugh Mercer’s final stand, and the Colonnade, a striking memorial honoring fallen soldiers.
Artists will work on site from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a free, open-air exhibition where completed works will be displayed on each artist’s easel. The public is invited to stroll around the grounds, meet the artists, and view (and potentially purchase) original artwork. The work deemed Best in Show will be awarded a solo exhibition in the ACP’s Siegal Gallery and there will be cash prizes for first and second runners-ups.
Registration for the Plein Air Paint Out is $25, with proceeds supporting ACP’s community programming. Artists are responsible for bringing their own materials and should plan accordingly for outdoor conditions. In the event of rain, the Paint Out will be canceled, and participants will be notified via email.
The Princeton Battlefield State Park is located at 500 Mercer Road. For more information and to register, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.