Temecula’s 17th Annual Ralph Love Plein Air Contest Begins July 26

Below is a press release from the City of Temecula:

TEMECULA, CA — Local artists are invited to paint scenic sites in Temecula for two weeks beginning Friday, July 26, 2024, through Sunday, August 11, 2024, as part of the City of Temecula’s 17th Annual Ralph Love Plein Air Contest.

The late Ralph Love painted his masterpieces in his art studio, Art Shack, in what is now Old Town Temecula. His works are highly collectible and we honor him and emerging local artistic talent with this annual contest.

Plein air artists are invited each year to paint various locations throughout the city of Temecula during the competition. New to the competition are two youth categories: 13 and under and 14 – 17 years old. Emerging artists are encouraged to enter to win a large prize basket of art supplies! Submitted canvas paintings must be postmarked between Friday, July 26, 2024 and Friday, August 9, 2024 to be eligible for judging. Stamps for submitted canvas paintings are available at the Temecula Valley Museum (28314 Mercedes Street) from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (closed Mondays).

Artists can paint any of the following locations:
• Old Town of Temecula
• Temecula Wine Region
• City of Temecula Parks

All eligible entries will be exhibited in the Ralph Love Plein Air Exhibition at the Temecula Valley Museum from Friday, August 16, 2024, through Sunday, September 22, 2024.

A public reception with live music and refreshments will be held at the Temecula Valley Museum on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. Competition awards include Best of Show/City Purchase Award ($500); 1st Place ($200); 2nd Place ($100); 3rd Place ($75); Best of Youth 14 – 17 and Best of Youth 13 & Under (basket of art supplies). Awards will be announced at the reception.
Plein air artists can apply online at TemeculaCA.gov/Register and register for Activity No. 9030.201.

There is a non-refundable $30 registration fee. For more information, contact the Arts & Culture Team at 951-694-6450 or email [email protected].