Km0 of Okanagan Rail Trail in Coldstream (Photo credit: Okanagan Rail Trail/Facebook)

By Vernon Matters Staff

June 11

Arts Council presents Rail Trail ‘Plein Air’ Event

Jun 8, 2023 | 6:30 AM

The Okanagan Rail Trail will be turned into a giant artist studio this weekend, featuring local and visiting artists painting the natural beauty of Kalamalka Lake.

The Arts Council of the North Okanagan is presenting its annual Rail Trail Plein Air Event on Sunday, June 11. The free event brings together the region’s vibrant artistic community with the breathtaking beauty of the Okanagan Rail Trail, promising a unique experience for both artists and art enthusiasts alike.

“We are thrilled to host the Rail Trail Plein Air Event offering a wonderful opportunity for artists to explore the Okanagan Rail Trail, find inspiration in its natural beauty, and share their creative art with the community,” Shawna Patenaude, manager at the Arts Council of the North Okanagan, said.

“We are especially excited to have a new youth category which will help foster a love of plein air painting at a young age.”

En plein air, a French expression meaning “in the open air,” is a traditional technique where artists create outdoors in the open air, perfectly aligning with picturesque landscapes and stunning vistas.

Fire spreads to house

Vernon home "significantly damaged" by grass fire

Apr 02, 2026

Youth Health Services

Youth immunization, sexual health clinic opening in Vernon

Apr 02, 2026

Displaced For A Week

Some residents still displaced from fatal apartment fire

Apr 01, 2026

From 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., artists will locate along different sections of the trail, capturing their unique perspective.

Friends of the Okanagan Rail Trail will be on hand at Km 0, the entrance at Kickwillie Loop and WestKal Roads, and the Kekuli Bay Provincial Park to give directions or answer questions.

Visitors to the Okanagan Rail Trail are invited to search out artists and witness the artistic process firsthand. Artists must drop off their painting(s) at the Vernon Community Arts Centre by 2:30 p.m. to be included in the jurying.

Artists and the public are invited to the Arts Centre in Polson Park for live music, cold beverages, snacks and award announcements.

“We invite everyone to join us in this creative journey and experience the captivating beauty of the Okanagan Rail Trail through the eyes of our artists,” ACNO board president Barbara Keith, said.

“This exciting event brings together talented artists and nature enthusiasts from all across the region.”

Artists of all skill levels and mediums are invited to join the painting experience, from seasoned professionals to emerging artists, young and young at heart. There will be prizes awarded in three categories: Experienced, Emerging, and a new Youth category.

Opus Art Supplies in Kelowna has donated a $150 gift card to the Experienced Artist first place winner and a $75 gift card to the Emerging Artist winner.

The Arts Council encourages artists to register early to secure their participation in this no-to-be-missed event. Registration details and additional information can be found on the Arts Council’s website at www.acno.ca under Events and Classes.

The Arts Council of the North Okanagan is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering and promoting arts and culture in the North Okanagan.