Arizona State Parks - Press Release

ARIZONA STATE PARKS
For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partnerships.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997… both at pio at azstateparks.gov

Plein Air Artist "Paint Out" on May 10th at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

(Phoenix, Arizona - May 5, 2008) - Arizona State Parks and Arizona Plein Air Painters will host a "Plein Air" Artist event on Saturday, May 10th at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

"Plein Air" means in the open air. It refers to the practice of painting outdoors. At the "Plein Air" events, artists will look for something within the state park and draw or paint something that sparks their interest. They will then complete the work during the event and submit the piece for judging by their fellow plein air artists. At 12 p.m., the artists will gather to judge their peers' work. In addition, Artist Linda Dellandre will be there to do a demo with pastels.

The "Paint Outs" began as part of State Parks 50th anniversary celebrations in 2007 and will continue throughout 2008. The finalist from each one will have the opportunity to display their piece at a gallery show from January 10 through February 1, 2009 at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. There will be a "Fun Paint Out" that will not be judged on January 10, 2009. An opening reception will be held immediately following the "Fun Paint Out."

For more information about the "paint out" on May 10th call Tonto Natural Bridge State Park at (928) 476-4202. The Park Entrance Fee is waived for participating artists. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is located off Hwy 87, just 10 miles north of Payson.

For more information about other "paint outs" or the opening reception call (602) 542-4174. For information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit the website at www.azstateparks.com.

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