Annual Paint Stevensville draws community and artists together

STEVENSVILLE — Plein air: Kent Island style.

Painting iconic buildings, marshes, boats and the historic area, not an inch of Stevensville was left undiscovered by an artist’s hand as Kent Island Federation of Arts celebrated the 8th annual Paint Stevensville event and competition May 29 through June 1.

With its historic buildings and welcoming businesses, the community provides a warm homely feeling while also providing an interesting location for visitors, according to Margeret Tessier, KIFA executive director.

Paint Stevensville is a unique event in that it welcomes artists of all experiences for a variety of reasons, she said.

Some artists find comfort in drawing and painting what they know and where they live, while for others visiting from out of the area, from Annapolis and beyond, it is an opportunity to create something new and learn about the historic downtown Arts and Entertainment District, Tessier said.

For some artists just the experience of painting outdoors, or plein air, is a unique challenge, she said.

“It’s always a time to learn something new,” she said.

Artist Stacey Sass, of St. Michaels, appreciated the flexibility Paint Stevensville offered. Artists have the freedom to paint where they feel and regulations are not as strict as other art competitions, she said.

Like her medium of choice, watercolor, Sass goes with the flow and is inspired by local water in all its forms.

“Marshes, streams, boats, I love anything to do with the water,” she said.

Sass credited KIFA as an amazing nonprofit that engages community art for all skill levels.

“Beginners as well as those experienced are encouraged to be involved,” she said.

Artist Pam Chase, of Millersville, was in her third year participating in Paint Stevensville and noted every year offers another opportunity to step off the beaten path and discover an area.

“I just can’t stay away, there’s so much to paint here,” she said.

The Paint Stevensville art judging and reception for the three day event was held Friday, May 31 reception following the three day event also offers the opportunity to meet other artists, according to Chase.

“It’s important to stay connected, painting is a lonely endeavor,” she said.

Given two hours to complete, artists captured the essence and the spirit of their choice of area on canvas with a Quick Draw event for all ages at Pocket Park June 1.

More than critiquing, judge Maureen Bannon provided feedback for artists during the Quick Draw event. Bennet assessed the art on the basis of techniques as well as creativity, originality, composition, filling a canvas, intention, and emotion.

“An important part of judging is asking, ‘where does your eye stay?’” she said.

For Bannon, the beauty in the annual community event’s art is that “everyone perceives something different. They’re all just perfectly lovely,” she said.

KIFA celebrated its 60th anniversary last year and for a small nonprofit it is extremely determined in continually providing artists endeavors for the community, Tessier said.

The 2024 season for KIFA has seen a focus on the Eastern Shore.

With the 50th anniversary of the Kent Island Heritage Society, 2025 will see a focus on all things Kent Island as KIFA partners to recognize the historic society, Tessier said.

More information about KIFA, including upcoming gallery showings and events can be found at http://www.kifa.us/home-1.html.