Fort Myers Beach, FL – Planning is well underway for the 6th annual Paint the Beach, a plein air painting competition and art show. This Festival is free to the public and will take place on November 2-8, 2015 on Fort Myers Beach.

The Fort Myers Beach Art Association is accepting applications starting July 15 for artists to par- ticipate in the festival. Artists who work in a variety of media are encouraged to apply. Registra- tion is limited to 60 artists for the main competition and 30 artists for the quick draw competi- tion. Those interested in applying should go to our website, www.fortmyersbeachart.com, and complete the application. Deadline for registration is Oct. 30, 2015.

During the week, artists will paint on location from Nov. 3-5 throughout the town of Fort Myers Beach. On Nov. 6 there will be a reception from 5pm until 7pm in the festival tent at Santini Ma- rina Plaza. A Quick Draw competition will be held in Times Square on Nov. 7. Artwork will be on display and for sale from the reception until 2pm Nov. 8 in the festival tent. Artists will be treat- ed to a meet and greet, breakfast, a demo lunch and a goodie bag.

Paint the Beach will present over $3,000 in cash awards and prizes to the Plein Air painters. The first place winner will receive $1000 and a 1/3 page ad in Plein Air Magazine. Second Place win- ner receives $750 and Third Place $500. Several other cash and prize awards will be given. The Awards Judge for the Plein Air competition is Joseph W. Palmerio.

“What I like the best about the Paint the Beach Art festival is the wide array of painting sites to choose from. In Fort Myers Beach you can find hidden coves and harbors, ships and yachts of all sizes, fantastic Shrimp Boats at dock, a beautiful sandy beach coastline and many waterfront restaurants. This event includes a Quick Draw Competition and a fantastic reception with cash prizes! What else can a painter ask for? There is so much activity in Fort Myers Beach. It is a painters dream!” Kathryn A. McMahon (First place winner in 2014).

For a detailed map of the festival site, complete list of artists, activity schedule, free parking ar- eas, visit www.fortmyersbeachart.com. Volunteers are still needed to help assist with the festival, and interested individuals may e-mail [email protected].

About the Fort Myers Beach Art Association – The Members of the Association are an incredibly dynamic group whose mission is to provide education in the cultural aspects of life on Ft. Myers Beach and its environs; to promote the study, practice and appreciation of art; to hold art exhi- bitions and programs which are open to the public; and to encourage art instruction of children and junior artists.

Contact: Michele Buelow
Fort Myers Beach Art Association Paint the Beach Chairman 239-689-1221
[email protected]
www.fortmyersbeachart.com