Welcome to the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association, Where Dark Meets Light on Canvas!

Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists

Mission

The Northern Indiana Plein Air provides resources to artists for the creation, education, and dissemination of artistic endeavors of painting in plein air of landscapes of Northern Indiana, and document Northern Indiana landscapes as they currently appear and to further outdoor painting. The methods used for education, promotion, and encouragement include thematic special projects, exhibitions, scheduled paint outs, workshops, and opportunity to display artwork for public exhibitions.

What's Next!

3rd Annual Indiana Dunes, In the Spirit of Dudley, Plein Air Paint and Social

SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 2026

8:00 AM – 1:30 PM

PAINT The Indiana Dunes, In the Spirit of Dudley, Plein Air and Social

"The Dunes are to the Midwest what the Grand Canyon is to Arizona and the Yosemite is to California." — Stephen Mather, First Director of the National Park Service

Join us in the spirit of Frank Dudley, the legendary "Painter of the Dunes," whose art helped save this landscape from industrial destruction over a century ago. Whether you are a seasoned plein air artist or just starting out, come capture the shifting sands and unique light of Lake Michigan.

MEETING POINT: Indiana Dunes State Park Main Beach Pavilion

THE DETAILS

THE VIBE: This is a "no-thrills" meet-up. No judging, no pressure. Just a morning designed to paint, socialize, and brainstorm with fellow artists in a world-class landscape.

THE AMENITIES: We are basing out of the Main Beach to ensure easy access to wonderful parking, restrooms, and concessions. You just have to walk out and paint.

THE COST: $7 Park Entrance Fee (per vehicle with Indiana plates).

THE SCHEDULE

8:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Paint the Dunes Set up by the Pavilion, hike the trails to the blowouts, or drive down to the National Park sites like the Century of Progress Homes.

1:00 PM: Wrap Up Start heading back to base.

1:30 PM: Critique & Photo Op Meet at the Main Beach Pavilion to share work and take a group photo.

AFTERWARD: Social Lunch We will caravan into Chesterton for lunch together (Location TBD).

Welcome to 2026: A Year of Light and Color!

As we step into 2026, the Northern Indiana Plein Air community is buzzing with excitement. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are just picking up a pochade box for the first time, we are thrilled to have you in our ranks. This year, as our nation celebrates its 250th Anniversary, the Northern Indiana Plein Air Association is embarking on a season-long tribute to the land that has shaped the American character.

From the first sketches of explorers to the modern easels we pitch in our state parks, painting outdoors has always been an act of "witnessing" history. This year, we aren't just painting scenes; we are following in the footsteps of the artists who documented the birth and expansion of our country.

NEWSLETTERS

January 2026

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