Call for Artists: 3rd Annual Plein Air Showcase of Georgia’s Rome

Media release from the Georgia’s Rome Office of Tourism:

The Georgia’s Rome Office of Tourism invites artists of all skill levels to participate in the 3rd Annual Plein Air Showcase of Georgia’s Rome on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Held during Downtown Rome’s lively Fiddlin’ Fest, the one-day event celebrates creativity, community and the vibrant energy of Downtown Rome.

Artists will paint outdoors during the event, capturing the sights, sounds and atmosphere of Fiddlin’ Fest, historic buildings and surrounding green spaces. Completed works will be submitted that same day for judging, with artists competing for cash prizes. The showcase is open to artists working in oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache and pastel (oil and chalk).

Artists of all skill levels are encouraged to participate, with special cash prizes recognizing beginner artists.
High school students are encouraged to participate in the competition. Local art teachers with students who are interested in participating but may need assistance with the entry fee are encouraged to contact Kristi Kent for information about available scholarships. 

Cash Prizes

Thanks to sponsorship support from the Rome Area Council for the Arts (RACA), prize categories include:

• First Place: $200
• Second Place: $150
• Third Place: $100
• Honorable Mention: $50
• Beginner Artist RACA Recognitions: $100 total (two awards of $50 each)
• Artist Choice Award: $25

Artists will also have the opportunity to sell their freshly painted works at the Wet Paint Sale, located within the festival area. 100% of the proceeds go directly to the artists. The public will  be invited to view and purchase the works during Fiddlin’ Fest.  

Registered artists will be invited to a meet-and-greet the evening before the showcase, featuring a live plein air painting demonstration and an opportunity to connect with fellow artists before the event.
Space is limited, so artists are encouraged to register early at RomeGeorgia.org/PleinAir.

For questions about the showcase, contact Kristi Kent at 706-295-5576 or kkent@romega.us.