Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
BJORKDALE — The Village of Bjorkdale, with a population of about 202, will become the backdrop for what organizers believe will be Saskatchewan’s largest gathering of plein air painters this September as more than 50 artists from across Western Canada and the United States take part in the fifth annual Plein Air Saskatchewan event.
The annual event, which celebrates painting outdoors, will be held in the Bjorkdale area before concluding with a public art show and sale on Sept. 13 at the Tisdale Golden Age Centre.
“Plein air” is a French expression meaning “open air.” Rather than painting from photographs in a studio, artists work outdoors, painting directly from the landscape. Because the light, weather and atmosphere are constantly changing, plein air painting encourages artists to work quickly while capturing the character and mood of a place, explained Lana Cowell, event co-ordinator for Plein Air Saskatchewan.
Founded in 2022, Plein Air Saskatchewan is an independent initiative dedicated to promoting plein air painting and celebrating the province’s landscapes. Rather than operating as a formal membership organization, the event is organized annually through partnerships with local communities, participating artists and supporters. Participation is open to anyone interested in painting outdoors.
Cowell told SaskToday approximately 50 to 58 artists are expected to attend this year’s gathering, with participants travelling from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, British Columbia and Oregon.
“This will be our fifth event, and by far the largest,” Cowell said.
Previous events have taken place in Waskesiu, Lumsden, Narrow Hills Provincial Park, Eston and the Gem Lakes area. This year marks the first time the event has been hosted in the Tisdale-Bjorkdale region.
Cowell said the northeast was selected as part of the organization’s long-term vision to showcase every region of Saskatchewan.
“When we created Plein Air Saskatchewan, we divided the province into six geographic regions so that, over time, artists would have the opportunity to paint in every corner of Saskatchewan.”
She said the decision also had a personal connection.
“The owner of Hues Art Supply has long had an affinity for the Tisdale area, while I grew up near Archerwill and have fond family memories of visiting my great-aunt in Bjorkdale. As soon as we began talking about Bjorkdale as a destination, we both knew it had everything we were looking for.”
Cowell said the support from residents has reinforced that decision.
“The incredible support we’ve received from local artists and the surrounding communities has only confirmed that decision. Their enthusiasm, generosity and willingness to share their corner of Saskatchewan have been a big part of why this event has grown into one of the province’s largest annual plein air gatherings and why Plein Air Saskatchewan continues to thrive.”
In addition to outdoor painting, this year’s event will feature optional educational seminars led by professional artists Christine Code and Michael King, who will share techniques and insights with participants throughout the weekend.
Although many attendees are experienced artists, Cowell said beginners are encouraged to take part.
“Everyone is welcome. While many participants are experienced plein air painters, we also encourage beginners who want to learn and experience painting outdoors. One of the best parts of the weekend is the willingness of artists to share ideas, techniques and encouragement with one another.”
She said participants often return after attending their first event.
“We’ve found that once someone joins us for their first event, they’re often hooked. They come back year after year to reconnect with friends, discover another beautiful corner of Saskatchewan and enjoy the simple pleasure of painting outdoors together.
Cowell said the event also benefits host communities.
“This event has always been about more than painting,” she said.
“It is about inviting artists from across Western Canada and beyond to spend time in Saskatchewan communities they might not otherwise visit. It is about giving communities an opportunity to showcase the places they call home to visiting artists.
She added that local volunteers play a vital role in the event’s success.
“Most importantly, none of this happens without the support of local volunteers and community champions. We are fortunate to work with individuals who are passionate about their communities and willing to share them with others. They help us identify painting locations, organize gathering spaces, connect with local businesses and welcome artists to the area.”
Following three days of painting throughout the Bjorkdale area, the public will have an opportunity to view and purchase original works during the Plein Air Art Show and Sale on Sunday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Tisdale Golden Age Centre. Admission is free.
Registration is online and for more information, check out their website.
