New for 2026
OPEN CATEGORY!
$20 Application fee
Deadline: May 10

In addition to the 30 juried artists, 30 artists from the community and beyond will be invited to capture the beauty and character of Berks County on canvas during the 11th annual Plein Air West Reading fine art competition. Chosen by lottery from applications received by May 10, 2026, the artists in the new Open Category will be able to:

• Paint or draw anywhere outdoors in Berks County June 14-17. All 2-D media are acceptable, including acrylic, oil, pastel, watercolor, charcoal, pencil.
• Compete in the 6/15 Quick Draw at Reading Museum Park for no additional fee
• Exhibit two paintings for judging and sale, in the invitation-only Patrons Preview at the Olympian Ballroom on 6/19
• Receive 4 tickets for Patrons Preview

Applicants who aren’t selected in the lottery will still be able to complete in Monday’s Quick Draw for no additional fee, and also receive two tickets for the Patrons Preview.
 
No image submissions required. Check out the Prospectus and apply today. Applicants must be age 18 or older by 6/15/26.

open prospectus