In 2020, the Paint the Point event committee worked diligently to modify every aspect of the event to make it safe and rewarding for artists and visitors alike. They succeeded. This year, professional artists from Florida to Minnesota will travel to Mineral Point and set up their easels and canvases Aug. 11-14 for the eighth annual plein air competition.
The historic mining town of Mineral Point, nearby Dodgeville and idyllic surrounding countryside present myriad scenic vistas for artists to capture. More than 40 artists will be participating in the event.
The artists will vie for nearly $6,000 in cash prizes in three separate competitions during the four-day event. Paintings will be displayed and sold 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 14 at the Masonic Lodge, 304 High St.
In the Main Event category, artists paint from Aug. 11 to the afternoon of Aug. 13 throughout Mineral Point and neighboring Dodgeville townships, capturing the landscapes and cityscapes of both towns. A jury of art professionals will judge two paintings submitted by each artist. Winning paintings will be announced during an artist reception Aug. 13.
The Nocturne (night-time painting) Event begins the evening of Aug. 12. Participating artists start painting at dusk, into the night, and then submit their completed paintings the next morning. Visitors are encouraged to visit Mineral Point, enjoy dinner and watch artists as they paint by moonlight.
The Quick Paint Event begins at 8 a.m. Aug. 14. Artists have only two hours from start to finish to create a painting of Mineral Point’s downtown historic district. Visitors are encouraged to watch artists work. Completed paintings will be judged and available for sale at noon, in a tent adjacent to the Masonic Lodge.
“Paint the Point” is presented by Arts Mineral Point, Inc., a 501(c)3 charitable organization whose mission is “to nurture and promote the arts in Mineral Point.” The group receives a commission for each painting sold. For more information, see www.artsmp.org/paint-the-point.