Marlene Madole is a Life Member and Past President of the Canadian Society of Painters in Water Colour (CSPWC). “Shadowscape II, Grapes” was selected by the CSPWC to join the Royal Collection, CSPWC Trust Gift III, housed at Windsor Castle, in honour of the Society’s 100th Anniversary in 2025. Her studio is celebrating her 30th year at the Williams Mill in Glen Williams. An award-winning artist, Marlene has exhibited her work in numerous group and solo exhibits. She has taught watercolour at leading cultural institutions including the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Varley Art Gallery. Marlene was selected as an Artist in the Park at Georgian Bay Islands National Park in their inaugural program.
How It Works
1. Check In: Upon arrival, participants will register and check in at the event desk. Surface stamping is required to ensure fairness.
2. Paint Outdoors: Explore stunning outdoor settings near Hillsburgh Library and capture the inspiration or rural beauty. All artists must paint outdoors.
3. Submission: Return completed work for evaluation by 1 p.m. Only 1 entry allowed per participant.
Easy as 1, 2, 3 ..
1
Check In & Get your Canvases Stamped at Registration
2
Paint
3
Submit Your Work by
1 p.m.
Pre-registration is strongly recommended to secure your spot, however walk-ins are welcome.
DATE
June 8, 2025
TIME
Registration Starts at 10 a.m.
Painting starts at 10:30 a.m.
LOCATION
Hillsburgh Library
9 Station Street)
PRIZES
1st. $150
2nd $125
3rd $100
Honourable Mention $75
People's Choice $75
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE
This competition is open to all skill levels! Beginners, hobbyists, and professionals are welcome to join and celebrate the joy of painting. If you are registered for the competitive stream, please review Event Day and Logistics tab in the FAQ section
Entry Fee

Competition Fee: $15
Non-Competitive Painting Session: Free and open to the public
ARTWORK OF MARLENE MADOLE
Give Marlene a follow on Instagram!

Then The Birds Came
14" x 11"
Watercolour over Graphite
Marlene Madole
Short Listed for the McMichael Plein Air Competition 2023
.jpeg)
Big Blue III
30" x 22"
Watercolour over Graphite
Marlene Madole

Then The Birds Came
14" x 11"
Watercolour over Graphite
Marlene Madole
Short Listed for the McMichael Plein Air Competition 2023
.jpeg)
Big Blue
30" x 22"
Watercolour over Graphite
Marlene Madole
PLEIN AIR FAQs
Welcome to the FAQ section for the Arts By The Pond Plein Air Paint Out 2025. We’re here to help you prepare for an enjoyable and inspiring day of outdoor painting. Below, you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions. Use the quick links below to jump to the section you’re looking for.

What is the Arts By The Pond Plein Air Paint Out?
This is a one-day plein air (outdoor) painting event for artists of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, come and capture the scenic beauty of Hillsburgh during this friendly competition or choose a non-competitive painting option.When and where does the event take place?
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Date: Sunday, June 8, 2025
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Time: Registration opens at 10 a.m., painting begins at 10:15 a.m.
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Location: Hillsburgh Library (9 Station Street, Hillsburgh, ON).
What’s the entry fee?
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Competitive Entry: CA$15
Non-Competitive Painting Session: Free and open to the public.
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Do I need to pre-register?
Pre-registration is strongly recommended to secure your spot, but walk-ins are welcome on the day of the event.How do I register?
You can register online here or sign up on-site at the registration desk on the event day. Be sure to arrive early to complete check-in.What do I need to do upon arrival?
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Check in at the registration table to receive your event materials.
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Have your painting surfaces stamped to ensure eligibility for judging (only verified surfaces will qualify for prizes). All participants must have their surfaces stamped before painting begins.
What is the schedule for the day?
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10 a.m.: Registration opens
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10:30 a.m.: Painting begins
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1 p.m.: Completed artwork must be submitted for judging (1 entry per participant).
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2 p.m.– 4 p.m.: Winners announced and artwork displayed.
PLEASE NOTE:
While you may walk around and scout possible locations, no prior sketching or setting up of equipment is permitted in advance of the signal to begin at 10:30 a.m.
Will parking be available?
There is limited parking at the library, street parking is available and look for signs for additional parking in town on Trafalgar RoadCan artists under 18 participate?
Yes, but participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will authorize their participation.-
What should I bring?
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Your painting supplies (e.g., easels, brushes, paints, canvases).
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Comfortable outdoor gear (e.g., hat, sunscreen, and an umbrella).
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A chair or mat for additional comfort.
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Optional framing or hanging equipment for displaying your work.
Are there size or material restrictions for artwork?
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Paintings must not exceed 12" x 16" unless pre-approved by the event organizers.
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Brushes must be cleaned, and dirty water disposed of in the designated pails near the Plein Air lesson tent (not in library sinks or hand wash stations).
Where can I paint?
You’re welcome to paint anywhere on the Hillsburgh Library grounds or the designated art path.-
What prizes are available?
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1st Place: $150
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2nd Place: $125
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3rd Place: $100
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Honourable Mention: $75
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People’s Choice Award: $75
What is the judging process?
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Submit your completed artwork at the registration desk by 1 p.m. to qualify.
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Ensure your painting includes the official verification card issued during check-in.
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Winners will be announced between 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m..
How can I vote for the People’s Choice Award?
Cast your ballot in the designated voting box at the main event tent.-
What facilities are available on-site?
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Washrooms and drinking water.
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A café and licensed bar offering beverages.
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Designated pails near the Plein Air lesson tent for cleaning brushes and disposing of dirty water.
Are there specific rules for cleaning or disposal?
Yes, all brush cleaning and water disposal must be done in the designated pails. Please do not use library sinks or hand wash stations.-
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What happens if it rains?
The event will proceed rain or shine! Consider bringing rain-resistant painting supplies or a small tent/umbrella for protection.
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What happens to my artwork after the event?
Artists retain full rights to their artwork. However, selected pieces (including the People’s Choice Award winner) may be displayed indoors or at future community arts events. The Host may also request to use photographs of the artwork for promotional purposes.When should I collect my artwork?
Please collect your artwork at the end of the day (by 4 p.m.).By participating in this event, you agree to the following:
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Your artwork may be photographed for promotional purposes.
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Participants may be removed from the event for violating venue rules or host policies.
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Full terms and conditions are available at registration. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not participate. Click Here to review before registration
For further questions, feel free to contact Overhere.ca. We look forward to seeing you there!
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