There’s something special about Wasatch County, Utah. Maybe it’s the way the light hits the mountains in early morning, or the wide open pastures dotted with barns and horses. This past week, from July 1–5, I had the chance to participate in this painter’s dreamscape for the annual Wasatch Plein Air Paradise competition, and it was a wonderful experience!

Hosted by the Midway Art Association, this event is one of the biggest plein air competitions in the West, drawing talented artists from all over. I felt honored (and slightly intimidated!) to paint alongside so many incredible painters. But once I set up my easel and dipped my brush into that first color, the nerves melted into focus.

There’s always this buzzing energy when plein air painters gather—everyone swapping tips, sharing stories, and eyeing each other’s gear setups. I scoped out a few favorite spots around Midway to paint.

Some pieces came easily; others fought me every step. That’s plein air—every canvas a small adventure. And every brushstroke is made under the ticking clock of changing light.

Seeing all the finished works displayed together in Town Hall was truly inspiring. Over 700 paintings lined the walls—mountains, barns, cows, clouds, sunsets. I didn’t take home a ribbon this time, but I gained something deeper: growth, community, and that renewed fire to keep painting the West.

If you’re a painter thinking about plein air events, Wasatch Plein Air Paradise should be on your list. It’s challenging, yes—but in the best way. You’re painting fast, outdoors, in real time, but surrounded by kind, passionate artists and some of the most stunning scenery Utah has to offer. 

Thank you to the Midway Art Association for hosting such a well-run event, and to the community for showing up with curiosity, encouragement, and open hearts.

I came to capture the landscape—but it ended up capturing me.