People in Burlington enjoy plein air painting

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - The Church Street Marketplace and Burlington Sip collaborated to host their first plein air painting event over the weekend.

“I really think that it’s great that Burlington offers opportunities to get involved with low barriers,” participant Meg Jones said.

Vermonters gathered for the free event outside using the natural light to paint a church on Church Street.

There were three one-hour-long sessions for any level of painter, whether an advanced artist or a beginner, and the fun was in the air.

“What a perfect place Church Street Marketplace would be for an event like this. I really wanted to capture this beautiful summer weather which we’re lucky to have today,” said Samantha McGinnis, the assistant director of the Church Street Marketplace.

Meg Jones recently moved to Burlington and likes how minimalistic the event is.

“It was just a nice way to be outside, see Church Street and get involved somehow, especially being new to the area,” said Jones, who said her favorite part of the event was that it was free and open to the community.

Church Street Marketplace Assistant Director Samantha McGinnis says the painting event brings more energy to the area.

“I think the goal for the plein air event was to just get people out on the Marketplace and have them enjoy this space, check out the shops and restaurants while they’re here and take in some of Vermont’s beautiful weather,” said McGinnis. “The most rewarding part about working for the Church Street Marketplace is seeing people out on the street, having fun.”

Not only did people walk away with an art project, but they also walked away with a smile.

“See people come out and enjoy them, see the smile on their face and see them enjoying all downtown Burlington has to offer,” said McGinnis.

This was a first for the Marketplace but they are optimistic it will become an annual painting event.

“This is our first time. We hope it goes really well, and we can do it again but we’re just excited to kick it off today,” said McGinnis.

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