Plein Air Smokies Quick Draw Competition

In this fun, fast-paced challenge, artists of all levels create paintings on the spot, capturing the light, color, and spirit of the day. Whether you’re a seasoned plein air painter or just curious to try, the Quick Draw Competition Open Division is your invitation to dive in, trust your eye, and let the moment guide your art.
Quick Draw at a Glance:
→ Starting at 7:00am – Artists check in between 7-9am, get canvases stamped, and begin painting.
→ 11:00am – Painting stops. Artists return finished pieces to judge’s area by 11:30am.
→ 12:00pm – Cash prizes awarded; paintings on display for public viewing and sales
Open Division Prizes:
→ 1st: $500 and an invitation to return as a featured artist at the 2027 Plein Air Smokies.
→ 2nd: $300.
→ 3rd: $200.
Register through September 23 to compete. Get details and sign up at gsmit.org/quick-draw-2026.
Not a painter?
→ Spend the morning strolling through Sequoyah Hills Park and watching artists at work. At noon, the finished pieces will be available for purchase, so you can take home a freshly painted piece to add to your collection. Each sale supports both the artist and Tremont’s environmental education programs.
Learn more about Plein Air Smokies Featured Artists and public events at pleinairsmokies.com.