Local Artists Invited to Compete in Outdoor Painting Challenge at Historic Aycock Birthplace

FREMONT, N.C. – The Arts Council of Wayne County (ACWC) will host its first-ever Plein Air Quick Paint/Draw Competition on October 25, 2025, at the Aycock Birthplace Historic Site Fall Festival. The event offers artists an opportunity to create outdoor masterpieces inspired by the scenic rural landscapes of the historic venue.

Competition Details

Artists will have just three hours to complete their work, painting or drawing directly from nature without the use of reference images. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., with the competition running from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Winners will be announced at 1:30 p.m.

The competition welcomes artists working in various mediums, including painting, sketching, and drawing, making it accessible to both experienced plein air artists and newcomers to the technique.

Prizes and Recognition

Two prize packages will be awarded during the competition:

Best in Show winners will receive a $25 Art Market gift card, a complimentary Arts Council of Wayne County membership, free entry to the next Quick Paint competition, and promotional spotlight on the organization’s social media platforms and website.

People’s Choice winners will take home a $25 Art Market gift card and social media recognition.

Event Information

The competition takes place during the Aycock Birthplace Fall Festival at 264 Governor Aycock Road NE in Fremont. Entry fee is $10, plus a $0.25 service charge. The festival runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Interested participants can register here: