The High Desert Art League and Smith Rock State Park have come together to create an event celebrating the creativity of the human spirit and the spectacular beauty of Central Oregon’s Smith Rock. On June 22 the public and plein air artists of all kinds will experience the amazing scenery, geography and wildlife of Smith Rock State Park.

The Smith Rock Paint Out was created to bring the Smith Rock experience to new audiences. Known for its world-famous rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is also host to many miles of hiking and mountain bike trails, the meandering Crooked River and views of the volcanic peaks of Oregon’s Cascade Range, a perfect setting for artists, photographers and nature lovers of all kinds.

Organizers have a great deal planned. They have partnered with Arts Central and the Art Station to create an area of free family art activities. Several well known Central Oregon artists will be on hand for artist demonstrations including Helen Brown and Vivian Olsen. Also on the schedule is a Park Ranger presentation about the history, geology and wildlife of Smith Rock State Park.

The plein air competition is open to all artists working in 2-D media that can be created from start to finish in the park, in the allotted time. A juried exhibition of work created during the event will be held at the Redmond Airport June 25-August 18. The event hours are 8am-2:30pm. www.smithrockpaintout.com.