Portrait of a Place: A Plein Air Event
Welcome artists and art lovers alike to the second annual Portrait of a Place: Plein Air Event. July 17-19, 2025 historic Homer will be littered with artists diligently working to capture this idyllic village via paint, pen, and pastel. Whether you're an experienced plein air artist or simply enjoy watching art in action, this is the perfect weekend to experience Homer at its most colorful.
A Celebration of Art in the Heart of Cortland County
Hosted by the Center for the Arts of Homer, this three-day event invites artists to capture the charm of Homer’s scenic streets, rivers, and historic architecture. With inspiration everywhere, participants will create original works and compete for prizes, all against the backdrop bucolic countryside.
Event Schedule: When and Where to Paint
Thursday, July 17: Early Bird Check-In
Artists can check in between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM at the Center for the Arts (72 S. Main St., Homer). Pick up your welcome bag, get your map, and have your canvas officially stamped. This is required for any artwork submitted for judging.
Friday, July 18: Paint the Village
Check-in and stamping continues from 8:00–10:00 AM. Then it's time to explore and paint! From 1:00–3:30 PM, don’t miss the Quick Paint Out on Main Street where artists will create a full piece in just 2.5 hours. Judging takes place at 3:30 PM outside the Homer Post Office, with a $75 prize for the best depiction. Cap off the day with a casual artist gathering at Homer Hops from 4:30–6:00 PM.
Saturday, July 19: Judging, Reception & Holiday in Homer
The 44th Annual Holiday in Homer takes over the Village Green from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, bringing thousands of visitors, over 100 vendors, live entertainment, food, games, and endless small-town charm. With the festival unfolding just outside the gallery doors, it’s the perfect opportunity for artists to catch new eyes—and potential buyers.
Be sure to submit your finished artwork to the Center for the Arts by 12:00 PM sharp to be eligible for judging. Then stick around for the gallery show, art sale, and reception from 1:30–3:30 PM, with the Awards Presentation at 2:00 PM. With so much happening in Homer, your art won’t just be seen - it’ll be celebrated.
Tip: Parking may be limited during Saturday’s Holiday in Homer festival. Take advantage of the free shuttle from nearby lots like the Homer High School back lot, Homer Elks Lodge, or Heyer Physical Therapy.
Where to Paint: A Picture-Perfect Village
With its tree-lined streets, river views, and architectural gems, Homer is a dream for plein air painters. Recommended locations include:
- The Tioughnioga River and historic lenticular bridges
- The David Hannum House on Main Street
- Homer Village Green, bustling with Holiday in Homer
- Hidden corners from our Cortland Curiosities Trail, including the whimsical Circus House and the towering tale of the Cardiff Giant
Make a Weekend of It: Eat, Play & Stay
There's plenty to explore when the brushes are down. Cortland County is home to oodles of delicious eateries, charming Airbnbs, cozy hotels, and fun-filled resorts- and Experience Cortland knows all the best spots! Click here to find your home away from home.
If you're looking to kick back in the evening, you can catch a performance at Cortland Repertory Theater or live tunes at one of our fantastic craft breweries or distilleries. Both downtown Homer and Cortland have an array of restaurants bound to satisfy the pickiest of pallets. For a full list of local eateries click here.
The 1890 House Museum and CNY Living History Center are perfect for a quite stroll, and each less than 15 minutes away. If embracing the outdoors is more your style, head over to Lime Hollow Nature Center for year-round outdoor activities and education. For a list of events happening during your stay, visit our events page. Happy painting!
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