Plein air painting isn’t just for grown-ups. At Plein Air Adkins, young artists can try their hand at making art en plein air, or “in the open air.”

Little Plein Air is a free event open to artists aged 3–12, all skill levels welcome. Maryland Stem Festival participants must be registered online. This is not a drop-off program. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Adults may check-in their kids at the Visitor’s Center at 10:30 am. If your child needs less than an hour to create their masterpiece, feel free to arrive later.

Kids are welcome to bring their own art supplies, or borrow from the Arboretum. The following supplies will be available:
Crayons
Markers
Colored pencils
Watercolor paints
Printer paper
Cardstock
Clipboards
Drawing boards
Adults should help their child find a special place outside to create. They can sit at a picnic table, on the Meadow Overlook, on a bridge, or anywhere they feel inspired! At 11:30 am, Little Plein Air artists will meet at the picnic tables behind the Visitor’s Center to showcase their work. Every artist will receive a prize and a personalized superlative.

At the conclusion of Little Plein Air, kids and their adults are welcome to observe Plein Air Adkins artists and stay to watch the judging.