For Artists

Open Division

Register to paint alongside the festival's invited artists. We recommend some prior plein air experience — spots are limited and go quickly.

At a Glance

Quick Facts

$30 Registration

Limited to 30 artists, first come, first served. A waiting list opens once registration is full.

28" x 28" Max Size

Maximum finished painting size, including the frame.

Stamp Before Painting

All canvases and substrates must be stamped at check-in before any painting begins.

40% Commission

Retained by the Ralston Hinge Creative District, a 501(c)(3), to fund future programming.

Getting Started

Registration & Check-In

Registration is $30 and limited to 30 artists, first come, first served. Once registration fills, a waiting list will open. We highly recommend some prior plein air painting experience.

Check-in runs from 11am to 5pm on Monday, September 14th, at the Ralston Baright Public Library (5500 S. 77th St, Ralston). You'll receive your information packet and lanyard, and can have your canvases stamped.

All canvases and painting substrates must be stamped before you paint on them — no painting will be accepted without a prior stamp. You may have an unlimited number of surfaces stamped, but only one or two finished pieces may be submitted for exhibition and awards.

A liability release form is required from every Open Division artist at check-in.

The Work

Painting Requirements

Two-dimensional work only: oils, acrylics, watercolor, gouache, casein, pastel, or oil sticks.
Maximum finished size is 28" x 28", including the frame.
Paintings must be in quality frames, wired on the back for hanging. No unframed gallery-wrap canvases and no sawtooth hangers — no exceptions.
All work must be created outdoors, on location (en plein air). No painting from photographs or indoors.
You may have an unlimited number of canvases or substrates stamped, but only one or two finished pieces may be submitted for exhibition and awards.

Out in the Field

Where & How to Paint

Paint any or all days of the festival, anywhere across the metro.
Suggested painting locations and maps are available on the Schedule page and in your information packet.
Be mindful of other artists — don't block their view when setting up near them.
Always ask permission before painting on private property.

Selling Your Work

Sales, Commission & Exhibition

All paintings must be for sale — no presales directly off your easel during the festival.
Direct potential buyers to the Public Exhibition and Sale: Friday evening (ticketed) or Saturday (free and open to the public).
The Ralston Hinge Creative District retains a 40% commission on all sales, supporting future programming in the creative district.

Turn-In & Pickup

Turn in your finished paintings on Friday, September 18th, between 9am and noon at the Venues at the Granary (74th & Main St, Ralston). Unsold works must be picked up by 5pm on Saturday, September 19th.

Ready to Register?

Fill out the form below to reserve your spot. Registration is $30 and limited to 30 artists, first come, first served.

After submitting the form, pay your fee via PayPal or by mailing a check. Any registration without payment will not be accepted.

Already Registered? Pay Your $30 Fee

Pay Online

Mail a Check

Make checks payable to Ralston HINGE Creative District for $30 and mail to:

Ralston HINGE Creative District
5615 S. 77th St
Ralston, NE 68127