Lighthouse ArtCenter’s vibrant arts scene reached new heights as the 12th Annual Plein Air Festival’s Collectors’ Party drew over 500 art enthusiasts and collectors. Guests had the exclusive opportunity to mingle with 29 award-winning plein air artists from around the globe and acquire freshly painted masterpieces capturing the rich landscapes and cultural essence of Palm Beach and Martin counties.
The week-long festival celebrates the tradition of plein air painting and featured artist demonstrations, workshops, and a prestigious competition with over $15,000 in cash and prizes. Artists brought local coastlines, gardens, and landmarks to life in real-time, presenting their works at the Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery.
Internationally renowned artist Mary Garrish served as the festival judge, honoring exceptional talent at the Collectors’ Party Awards Ceremony.
12th Annual Plein Air Festival’s Award Winners:
Grand Prize: Jeff Steiner for Biking Palm Beach – $4,000 (sponsored by Jane and Patrick O’Neill)
1st Place: Crista Pisano for Sleeping Palm – $2,500 (sponsored by Elaine and Peter McCombs)
2nd Place: Marc Anderson for Romulus and Remus – $1,500 (sponsored by Martie and Bob Sachs)
3rd Place: Manon Sander for Coffee Break – $500 (sponsored by Glenda and Jeff Hoops)
Artists’ Choice Award: Marc Anderson – $500
Honorable Mentions ($350 each) sponsored by Sue & Tom Manzi, recognizing exceptional works such as:
Best Off the Beaten Path: Palms Dancing in the Breeze – Natalia Andreeva
Best Seascape: Big Surf – Olena Babak
Best Architecture: Steel Horizon – Harsh Agrawal
Best Nocturne: Diner After Hours – Carl Bretzke
Best Local Hot Spot: Flagler Museum – David Savallano
The festival concluded with a high-energy Battle of the Brushes live painting event and auction, celebrating artistic excellence and fostering community engagement.
Additional sponsors contributed to the success of the event, including American Art Collector, Jupiter Magazine, and Plein Air Magazine.
