Parrsboro International
Plein Air Festival
Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival
June 17-22, 2025
“Sunset on the Bay of Fundy” by Patrick McPhee Best in Show PIPAF 2024
What is Plein Air Painting?
“En plein air” is a French expression meaning “in the open air”. It describes the art of outdoor painting, using specific skills to capture landscapes and views in natural light. Plein Air painting requires adaptability to a changing environment and speed in applying painting techniques.
Plein air events have a dedicated following among artists who appreciate going to new locations and being challenged by the work of other artists on location.
The stunning views along the Fundy Shore draw our artists here
Capturing scenic beauty on the spot.
Nestled on Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy, with the highest tides in the world creating unique and ever-changing shoreline scenery, Parrsboro has become home to Canada’s largest Plein Air Festival.
Since 2017, Parrsboro Creative has organized the Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival, drawing 30 juried artists annually from across North America to compete in painting the picturesque sea and landscapes the Parrsboro Shore has to offer.
It’s part of Parrsboro Creative’s vision of developing the area’s cultural economy through the creation and enhancement of a community or artists and artisans that will rejuvenate the community, once a thriving shipbuilding area. Of course, the festival would not be possible without the support of sponsors ranging from government to private enterprise. Its success has been chronicled in media across North America, reaching thousands of artists, art galleries and art collectors’ organizations across the continent.
Master Gallery
This is where to see all paintings from past years. The talent here will blow you away.
Painting detail by Wesley Lowe
Scenery along the Parrsboro Shore
Want to know what all the hype is about? Explore our photo gallery to see for yourself the majesty of these UNESCO-designated natural wonders.
