Art takes center stage in Camas this weekend

Anyone who loves to catch a behind-the-scenes glimpse of artists in action will want to attend this week’s Plein Air & Art Event in downtown Camas.

Artists will set up their easels and paint “en plein air” (outdoors) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 3, throughout the city’s historic downtown area.

The artists will show their finished paintings from 4 to 8 p.m. in front of the Camas Gallery, at 408 N.E. Fourth Ave. on Friday evening, during the Downtown Camas Association’s art-themed First Friday event and visitors can vote for their favorite plein air painting.

The September First Friday celebration is set for 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 3, also throughout downtown Camas. The art-themed event will include a “Name that famous artist” guessing game with prizes; a downtown mural tour game; an art show and reception for artist Jean Schwalbe at Attic Gallery, 421 N.E. Cedar St.; art demonstrations at various downtown Camas locations, including Juxtaposition, 425 N.E. Fourth Ave., Attic Gallery and Caffe Piccolo, 400 N.E. Fourth Ave.; and children’s arts and crafts activities at LiveWell Camas, 417 N.E. Birch St.

Other First Friday events will include a ribbon-cutting at Phaysone SkinCare, 419 N.E. Birch St.; outdoor music at Mesa, 228 N.E. Fourth Ave.; and shopping at participating downtown Camas boutiques.

Camas Gallery is sponsoring the Plein Air event.

“This event truly celebrates the amazing local talent we have in Camas and surrounding area,” said Carrie Schulstad, director of the Downtown Camas Association. “It is always so meaningful to see the artists painting throughout town and many are very happy to share their technique and inspiration with those passing by. It’s interesting to see what they choose to paint. Young and old can enjoy the art activities in town and in the downtown businesses.”

For more information about First Friday events, visit downtowncamas.com/event/plein-air-art-event or facebook.com/camasfirstfriday.