The Floyd Center for the Arts is pleased to announce the 5th Floyd Plein Air Biennial, taking place September 14–19, 2026 in beautiful Floyd County, Virginia. This beloved event brings together talented artists from across the region and beyond to paint the inspiring landscapes, farms, waterways, and town scenes that define our community in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Over the course of the week, selected artists will paint entirely on location, capturing the light, atmosphere, and spirit of Floyd County in real time. From rolling fields and mountain vistas to historic sites, rivers, and downtown Floyd, participants will experience the landscape through focused observation and creative exploration.

The Biennial also features a variety of public opportunities to engage with plein air art, including artist demonstrations, wet paint sales, the Quick Draw Contest, and the Gala Art Sale, where finished works created during the event will be available for purchase.

We are honored to welcome Deliece Blanchard as the 2026 Event Judge. Deliece is an award-winning plein air painter and a distinguished member of Oil Painters of America, the American Impressionist Society, and American Women Artists. Her experience, dedication to the plein air tradition, and artistic excellence make her an inspiring leader for this year’s event.

Virginia native and plein air painter Joli Ayn Wood will return as Chairperson for the 2026 Biennial. Joli brings valuable insight as both an organizer and former participant, helping ensure a meaningful, supportive, and enriching experience for our visiting artists.