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Grand Prix of Art returns to Richmond

See talented painters capture the beauty of Steveston on canvas.
Grand Prix of Art
The Grand Prix of Art returns to Steveston on Sept. 22. Image: Grand Prix of Art

An annual painting contest that sees public spaces turned into plein-air art studios is returning to Richmond Saturday. 

The Grand Prix of Art is a competition that randomly assigns artists a spot around Steveston and gives them only a few hours to set up their easel and paint something based on what they see. When the time’s up, artists must put down their brushes and submit their piece to be judged.

“We like to call it a race because they’re racing against the clock to complete their plein-air painting on location,” said founder Mark Glavina.

Once pieces have been adjudicated, they’re displayed in an afternoon exhibit for all to see. They’re also put up for sale for those interested in collecting a one-of-a-kind shipyards-inspired piece.

This year, founder Mark Glavina says he’s expecting between 100 and 150 artists to enter the competition. All proceeds, he said, go directly to the artists.