Plein air artists capture Canton and Hannibal by creating artwork outdoors on two-day weekend

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The communities of Hannibal and Canton recently hosted a two-day plein air painting event. Twenty area, regional and Midwest artists were involved in the events. Plein air artists captured each community by creating works outdoors and on site.

After a full day of creating original works of art, the finished pieces were displayed during a one-night-only reception and awards, allowing the public to buy fresh art the day it was created.  Each evening, up to two artworks completed earlier that day were turned in for judging and purchase.

Winners of Hannibal’s daily awards were: 

• Best of Show – watercolor by Larry Siwek of Quincy, Ill.;
• Second Place – oil by Deb Baughman of Pulaski, Iowa;
• Third Place – oil by Veronica Brown of Sullivan. 

The Hannibal Arts Council also offers a special Purchase Award.  The piece chosen for purchase was an acrylic by Pat Kerns of Hannibal.

Winners of Canton’s daily awards were: 

• Best of Show – watercolor by Larry Siwek of Quincy, Ill.;
• Second Place – oil by Deb Baughman of Pulaski, Iowa;
• Third Place – oil by Deb Baughman of Pulaski, Iowa.

The River Bluffs Paint Out is a partnership of the Hannibal Arts Council and the Canton Area Arts Council.  Additional partners include the Hannibal Convention and Visitors Bureau, Canton Main Street Association, Canton Tourism Commission, Nationwide Transport and Dick Blick Art Supplies.