SYRACUSE, NY.- The Everson Museum of Art is proud to participate in Syracuse ArtsWeek 2009 by offering a hands on plein air (painting in the open air) painting experience to visitors at City Hall Commons on July 25. This free outdoor art event will run throughout the day, and is open to the public.

As the Everson Museum of Art gears up for the upcoming exhibition of Impressionist works, Turner to Cézanne: Masterpieces from the Davies Collection, National Museum Wales, the community is invited to “learn by doing,” and step into the role of the artist. Visitors will capture the feeling of a city abuzz in their paintings, as the summer sun illuminates the life and architecture of the downtown area.

Everson volunteers and staff will be on hand to answer questions, share painting tips and techniques, and explain the concept of Impressionism. Visitors will be provided all the materials needed to create their very own plein air painting. They can take this painting home with them, or leave it with the Everson for display on the lower level.

“We hope that this can inspire our community members to learn more about art, pursue art instruction, or to try a new hobby,” said Amy Goodall-Ayres, Everson Museum of Art Education Manager. “We want everyone to become acquainted with works of Impressionist art that at times may seem daunting, and to feel first hand what it means to be an artist. We also want to encourage visitors to share their personal arts experiences with the rest of the community.”