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!

Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run Fall Paint with Friends

October 3, 2026

Plein Air Paint-Out

Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run – Lagro, Indiana

Painting Time: 9am to 1p.m.

County: Wabash County, Indiana

ACRES Land Trust – Hathaway Preserve

Event Overview

Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run is one of the most dramatic natural locations in Wabash County, especially during October. The preserve features:

A steep sandstone gorge carved by Ross Run

High cliffs and moss-covered rock walls

A clear flowing creek flowing over waterfalls with shallow pools

Vibrant fall foliage along the ridge lines

Wildlife-rich forest canopy

Painters will enjoy multiple composition options—gorge views, water reflections, cliff faces, leaf color, and the elevated overlooks. The preserve feels secluded, quiet, and immersive, perfect for an autumn plein air session.

Exact Location

Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run

Address: 1866 E Baumbauer Rd, Lagro, IN 46941

Managed by: ACRES Land Trust

The entrance is marked with a small ACRES sign and a gravel driveway.

Parking Information

Parking is very simple but limited:

Main Gravel Parking Lot

Capacity: 8–12 vehicles

Important Notes

There are no restrooms at this preserve.

Early arrivals get the easiest spots.

Carry Gear in a Back Pack!

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

March2026