French for “outdoors” perfectly describes the approach and theme that organizers took when planning this year's festival. “With the uncertainty of Covid-19 and given the picturesque backdrop of the Blackstone Valley, we had some great reasons to continue keeping our events outside in the open air of warm September afternoons,” said Festival Director Anthony Ambrosino.
Plein air painting is the act of painting outdoors and Chicago-born artist Nick Paciorek, now a proud Pawtucket resident after purchasing the historic Pitcher-Goff House, had a great idea in staging an “En Plein Air” painting event in the heart of downtown Pawtucket, which bookends the festival with dates on the 10th, 11th &12th. “I’m constantly inspired by the unique beauty and atmosphere of this area. I can literally stand on my roof, look in any direction and find an incredible scene to paint. ” says Nick.
Nick has invited 12 renowned artists to come to Pawtucket and create pieces, which will feature everything from historic landmarks to classic architecture and breathtaking skylines. The beauty of this event is that you can watch these talented artists create their works, which will be known as the first of “The Pawtucket Collection,” right in front of you, at the very locations while they’re captured on canvas.
