On Sunday, May 31, Weir Farm National Historic Site welcomed over 200 art lovers and artists, of all ages, to enjoy the fun of creating art in nature. A Brush with Nature, a free day-long plein air art event, celebrated the creation of art in a landscape that has inspired artists for over 125 years. Five local professional artists set up their easels and shared their passion for painting and sketching while the National Park Service provided watercolor and sketching supplies for anyone who needed them. Special tours that discussed the history of plein air painting at Weir Farm National Historic Site were offered as well. At the end of the day, a clothesline exhibition featured the artwork created throughout the day. “Art and nature are two of the best ingredients,” said Superintendent Linda Cook, “people painting and sketching this landscape make this site come alive.”

Local professional artists Sally Frank, Wendy Hollender, Bobbi Eike Mullen, Jen Shelley, and Janine Wesselmann were set up in the landscape sharing their passion for plein air painting and sketching.