2025 Edisto Plein Air Paint Out & 2024 Recap
The (2024) 5th annual Edisto plein air paint out was a great success
We wish to congratulate all of the participants on a job well done! We are already making plans for October 14-18, 2025. Hope to see you there!
The Edisto Plein Air Paint Out is an open enrollment, plein air painting event. It takes place in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina in and around the Town of Edisto Beach and the surrounding area of Edisto Island and the ACE Basin, from Tuesday, October 14 through Saturday, October 18, 2025. The paint out aims to bring painters together from around the world to paint outside in the fresh air while getting to know each other and sharing their work. The event prompts applicants to explore the unique flora and fauna of the creeks and marshes, spectacular sunset views, and overall peace and calm that the gently developed area provides.
After several days of painting "en plein air," painters are invited to display their completed works at the Wet Paint Show & Sale on Friday and Saturday, October 17th and 18th. Collectors, art guild members and the public are invited to attend this impressive display of Plein Air paintings to both view and purchase the unique works that highlight the incredible beauty of the Lowcountry.
All submitted art to the art show will be entered into a judged plein air painting competition.
Artist Prospectus
In this open event, all painters and mediums are welcome.
After several days of painting en plein air, painters are invited to display their completed works at a reception for sponsors and ticketed guests on Friday evening, October 17th and at the Wet Paint Art Show & Sale on Saturday, October 18th. Collectors and the public are invited to attend this impressive display of Plein Air paintings to both view and purchase the unique works that highlight the incredible beauty of coastal South Carolina. Painters are encouraged to invite their collectors to come to the show on Friday or Saturday. The show will be held in the Edisto Civic Center auditorium.
All submitted art to the art show must be for sale and will be entered into a judged plein air painting competition.
If you or your business would like to sponsor an award, contact Camille Lemon.
Enjoy this video from OUR 2024 edisto Event.
What to Bring to a Plein Air Event on Edisto
If you are new to plein air events this list might help you know what you might need to bring:
Canvas/panels/paper – Stamps should be visible on the back of the artwork. If framing, please use open back frames.
Paint and palettes – Are you a "less is more," or "everything but the kitchen sink" painter?
Brushes, paints, pastels, pencils, knives etc. The closest supply store is in Charleston.
Rain gear – Those passing showers create some dramatic sky lighting conditions perfect for capturing on canvas. Toilet Paper, because you never know. Bug Spray. SC state bird is the mosquito. Thermacell works well.
Sun protection – most days are likely to be sunny and pleasant, with highs in the high sixties and lows around 50. Dress accordingly in layers, and don’t forget the sunscreen.
Sturdy shoes – Some of our vistas are easily reached from roadsides and sidewalks. But many more await a short hike away. Please be prepared for a variety of conditions.
Easel, tripod, umbrella, chair, etc. – bring your preferred arrangement, being aware that sudden gusts can be surprisingly strong.
Umbrellas can be useful for both rain and sunny conditions.
Paper towels, as well as bags for trash and emergency rain shields
Camera to record the scenes you might not get to paint all in one weekend
Bulldog clips, tape, bungees, whatever your method to secure your painting & accessories
Brush washing solvents or water and containers - Bring a spare in case of spills. To protect our well water and our marshes, do not empty solvents onto the ground.
Small sketch pad and tools, viewfinder
Backpack and/or box to carry it all. A rolling trolley is helpful over rough terrain
Water and snacks. Edisto has a few market and restaurant options.
An open mind to paint in new locations and conditions.
Link to Outdoor Painter - How to Frame Paintings at an Outdoor Event.
Travel on Edisto
Note and adhere to posted speed limits. Edisto is known for its wildlife so be mindful especially on Edisto’s many sandy roads.
Parking is limited to designated parking areas or off road shoulders.
If using state parks, you must have a pass and stay on maintained trails (park passes may be purchased in advance).
If using Botany Bay WMA, be sure to stop at the kiosk and follow instructions. Hiking shoes or boots are recommended.
It is hunting season. Make wise choices.
Many areas are outside mobile and WiFi reception. Plan routes ahead of travel.
Please do not block driveways, fire hydrants, bike paths, vehicular or pedestrian traffic, so we ask that you not set up in the roadways or other high-traffic areas.
Bring anything that you need because you may or may not be able to find it on the island. The Food Lion on the beach is small and the closest drug store is a CVS - 25 miles away in Hollywood, SC.
Visit the Edisto Chamber of Commerce for frequently asked questions.
Information for Buyers and Sponsors
The Paint Out will conclude on October 19, 2024 with an exhibition and sale of the art created on Edisto. Past Wet Paint shows have included both emerging as well as established professional artists. This is a unique opportunity to purchase art depicting Lowcountry landmarks and landscapes and also meet local and regional painters.
Sponsors and ticketed guests may view the fresh paintings on Friday evening, October 18th at a champagne reception to be held at the Civic Center.
The general public may view the Wet Paint Show & Sale on Saturday, October 19th between 10:00 - 2:00 pm. All pieces must remain on display until the show concludes.
Sponsors
Enjoy special benefits including advertising opportunities, a champagne reception and first viewing and opportunity to purchase new paintings. Sponsors also support the outreach of the EAG in our community. Contact Camille Lemon at cslemon@logoman.com for more information.
Edisto Plein Air Competition
All submitted art to the Wet Paint Art Show & Sale (see information below) will be entered into a plein air painting competition.
Judging Panel: Judging will be performed by Kathie Odom.
Awards Ceremony: EAG will announce the awards at 12pm Saturday during the public exhibition and art sale.
Awards include: Cash and in-kind sponsor donations of artist materials. EAG expects to award $3000 in cash prizes for 2024.
Lodging
Numerous lodging options are available to meet a variety of tastes and budgets. We recommend making arrangements early, as demand can be high in the fall.
Visit the Edisto Chamber of Commerce for lodging information.
See additional links below for more lodging information.
VACASA: Edisto Island, SC, 29438 Phone: 843-869-2151 or 866-713-2154
EDISTO SALES & RENTALS REALTY: 1405 Palmetto Blvd., Edisto Island, SC 29438 Phone: 843-869-2527/ 866-856-6538
CAROLINA ONE VACATION RENTALS: 400 Highway 174, Edisto Island, SC 29438 843-869-2516 / 800-945-9667
EXTRA HOLIDAYS BY WYNDHAM: 1 King Cotton, Edisto Beach, SC 29438 843-869-4500
VACATION RENTALS BY OWNER (vrbo)
CAMPING at EDISTO BEACH STATE PARK: 8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438 843.869.2156