Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out
Capture the beauty of the Lowcountry during Art League’s first inaugural Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out, taking place April 9–10, 2026. This two-day outdoor painting event offers participants the opportunity to paint en plein air at stunning locations throughout Hilton Head Island, celebrating the region’s natural landscapes, coastal light, and distinctive sense of place.
The Paint Out will be judged by acclaimed artist Catherine Hillis, with a $1,000 first-place prize awarded to the top entry. Registration for the Paint Out is $75 for the public, or $50 for Art League members.
After painting en plein air during the Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out (April 9–10, 2026), artists are invited to present up to two finished works at Art League Gallery for our Wet Paint Gallery public display.
To be included in judging and awards consideration, eligible paintings must be delivered to Art League Gallery no later than 3 PM on Friday, April 10. Artists may leave submitted work on display for public viewing through 4 PM on Saturday, April 11.
Artists may also choose to extend the experience by participating in a lively Quick Draw competition on April 11, a fast-paced, crowd-favorite event available as an optional $25 add-on. Art League instructor Carol Iglesias will judge the Quick Draw. The Quick Draw will be held at Shelter Cove Marina.
Quick Rules Summary
Registration & Check-In
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Registration is required.
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Surface stamping/check-in is required before beginning any eligible painting. Only stamped surfaces are eligible for Wet Paint Gallery display and awards.
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A signed waiver will be collected at stamping/check-in.
Painting Requirements
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Paint Out dates: Thursday–Friday, April 9–10, 2026
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Artwork must be created en plein air (outside, from life, in natural lighting) during the event timeframe. Interiors are allowed only in difficult weather.
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Artwork must be two-dimensional.
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Accepted media: oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, ink, mixed media, and pastel.
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Prohibited: AI-generated imagery, projection/tracing/transfer methods, and primarily digital processes.
Surfaces & Submission Limits
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Artists may stamp an unlimited number of surfaces, but may submit up to two (2) finished works for Wet Paint Gallery display and awards.
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Surfaces must be blank prior to stamping (a solid toned base coat is allowed).
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Paper must be a single sheet and presentation-ready (pads/blocks that obscure stamping are not eligible).
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Maximum size: 40 inches on the longest dimension (including frame).
Wet Paint Gallery (Art League Gallery)
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Gallery hours: Thu–Sat, April 9–11 | 10:00 AM–04:00 PM
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To be included in judging/awards, eligible work must be delivered by 02:00 PM on Friday, April 10.
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Work may remain on public display through 04:00 PM Saturday, April 11.
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Pick-up deadline: immediately after the Awards Reception or by 04:30 PM Saturday, April 11.
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Work must be ready to hang (wired; framed with an open back so the stamp is visible) or gallery-wrapped.
Sales, Commission & Minimum Pricing
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Artwork may be offered for sale at the artist’s discretion, or marked NFS (not for sale).
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If a piece is offered for sale and displayed in the Wet Paint Gallery sale area, a price is required and must be $400 minimum.
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If a piece is offered for sale during the Quick Draw sale window, a price is required and must be $200 minimum.
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If priced for sale, Art League Gallery retains a 40% commission and processes all sales.
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Artists may not conduct independent sales on-site; all sales must be handled through Art League procedures.
Awards
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Awards Reception: Friday, April 10 | 05:00–07:00 PM at Art League Gallery
Judge: Catherine Hillis
Optional Quick Draw (Shelter Cove Marina)
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Add-on fee: $25 (limited spots) | Judge: Carol Iglesias
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Schedule: 08:00–09:00 AM check-in/stamp | 09:00–11:00 AM paint | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM turn-in/setup | 12:00–12:30 PM judging/awards | 12:30–01:00 PM public viewing/sale | 01:00 PM pickup
Questions: 843.681.5060 | info@artleaguehhi.org
Art League Gallery: 14 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head, SC
Event Schedule
Plein Air Paint Out (Island-wide)
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Thursday–Friday, April 9–10, 2026: Two-day Plein Air Paint Out at approved locations across Hilton Head Island
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Stamping/Check-in: Required before starting any eligible work. Stamping begins at 08:00 AM on April 9 at Art League Gallery.
Wet Paint Gallery Public Display & Sale (Art League Gallery)
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Thursday–Saturday, April 9–11 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM: Wet Paint Gallery open to the public (fresh work on display)
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Friday, April 10 | 2:00 PM: Deadline to deliver eligible paintings to Art League Gallery to be included in judging/awards
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Friday, April 10 | 5:00–7:00 PM: Awards Reception (Art League Gallery)
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Saturday, April 11 | Through 4:00 PM: Public viewing continues
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Saturday, April 11 | By 4:30 PM: Artist pick-up deadline for submitted work
Quick Draw Competition (Shelter Cove Marina)
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Saturday, April 11 | 8:00 AM–1:00 PM
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8:00–9:00 AM: Check-in & stamping
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9:00–11:00 AM: Painting window (brushes down at 11:00 AM)
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11:00 AM–12:00 PM: Turn-in & setup for judging/sale (must be ready to display)
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12:00–12:30 PM: Judging & awards
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12:30–1:00 PM: Public viewing & sale window
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1:00 PM: Pickup & breakdown complete
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Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out
Approved Painting Locations (A–Z) — GPS Addresses + Timing Notes
Event dates: April 9–10, 2026
Parking: Some beach parking fees may apply. Look at individual locations below
Burkes Beach (Park at Chaplin Community Park)
Parking GPS: Chaplin Community Park, 11 Cast Net Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Painting area: Burkes Beach Access (follow on site signage)
Best for: Dunes, shoreline, big sky, wave rhythm, and sea oats. Chaplin offers marshy greens and shade studies if you prefer to stay in the park.
Best times: Sunrise through late morning for softer light and fewer people; late afternoon for warmer sand tones.
Helpful tips: Park at Chaplin for easiest access and flexibility. Bring clips or weights, it can be breezy.
Compliance: Paid parking enforced 7:00 AM–5:00 PM during peak season. Beach lot hours typically 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Coligny Beach Park
GPS: 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Best for: Classic Hilton Head beach scenes, palms, people, boardwalk energy, long horizons.
Best times: Sunrise through late morning for the cleanest light; late afternoon for richer color.
Helpful tips: Expect crowds, arrive early and keep walkways clear. Midday glare is intense.
Compliance: Free parking.
Coastal Discovery Museum (Honey Horn grounds)
GPS: 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Best for: Live oaks, Spanish moss, marsh views, gardens, historic Lowcountry structures and fence lines.
Best times: Mid morning for oak shadow patterns; early to mid afternoon for brighter garden color.
Helpful tips: Great “all in one” location. Bug spray recommended near marsh areas.
Compliance: Grounds open 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (gates lock after closing).
Driessen Beach Park
GPS: 64 Bradley Beach Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Best for: Boardwalk leading lines, maritime forest, dunes to shoreline transitions, texture studies.
Best times: Early morning for boardwalk light and dune shadows; late afternoon for warmer dune tones.
Helpful tips: Use the boardwalk for strong perspective and framing. Wind is common on the beach.
Compliance: Paid parking enforced 7:00 AM–5:00 PM during peak season. Beach lot hours typically 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Fish Haul Beach Park
GPS: 124 Mitchelville Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Best for: Port Royal Sound vistas, tidal flats, marsh edges, birdlife, atmospheric skies.
Best times: Morning for wildlife activity and calmer conditions; late afternoon for dramatic skies.
Helpful tips: Tides can change the whole scene, low tide often reveals great patterns.
Compliance: Paid parking enforced 7:00 AM–5:00 PM during peak season. Beach lot hours typically 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Jarvis Creek Park
GPS: 50 Jarvis Creek Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Best for: Calm lake reflections, bridges, wooded paths, Spanish moss, value and reflection studies.
Best times: Morning for still water reflections; golden hour for rim light through trees.
Helpful tips: Plenty of viewpoints, move with the light around the lake.
Compliance: Park hours 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Rowing & Sailing Center at Squire Pope Community Park
GPS: 133 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Best for: Boats, docks, Skull Creek views, strong horizontals, silhouettes, nautical details.
Best times: Late afternoon into sunset for golden reflections and backlit rigs; morning for calmer water.
Helpful tips: Great for wider compositions. Be mindful of foot traffic on docks and paths.
Compliance: Park hours 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Shelter Cove Community Park
GPS: 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Best for: Broad Creek marsh views, waterfront promenade scenes, big skies, reflections, public art, and relaxed people-in-the-park compositions.
Best times: Early morning for softer light and fewer people; late afternoon into golden hour for warm marsh color and long shadows.
Helpful tips: Good restrooms and walking paths on site. Great option when you want shade breaks or a quick move between marsh, promenade, and art elements.
Compliance: Park hours listed as 6:00 AM–9:00 PM
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
GPS: 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Best for: Marina reflections, masts, waterfront architecture, promenade scenes, people studies.
Best times: Late afternoon into blue hour for reflections and “lights on water.”
Helpful tips: Keep walkways clear and choose a spot with safe sightlines. Reflections change quickly with wind.
Compliance: Follow posted parking rules and signage on site.
Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum
GPS: 574 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Best for: Historic stonework, moss draped oaks, dappled light, quiet and moody compositions.
Best times: Morning for gentle light under the canopy; late afternoon for warmer stone tones.
Helpful tips: Paint respectfully, keep setups unobtrusive, and stay clear of graves and visitors.
Compliance: Daylight hours recommended.
Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out FAQ
What is the Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out
A two day outdoor painting event where artists paint on location across Hilton Head Island and then exhibit eligible work in our Wet Paint Gallery for the public to view and purchase.
When is the event
Paint Out: April 9 and 10, 2026
Wet Paint Gallery public display: April 10 and 11, 2026
Awards Reception: April 10, 2026, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Quick Draw: April 11, 2026
Where is Art League Gallery
Art League Gallery
14 Shelter Cove Lane
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Do I have to register
Yes. Artists must be registered to participate, receive stamp approval, and be eligible for Wet Paint Gallery display and awards.
Is the event juried
Yes, the event is juried for awards. Artists are not juried to participate. Eligible stamped work submitted by the deadline will be judged for awards by our event judge.
Who is the Paint Out judge
Catherine Hillis
How much does registration cost
Paint Out registration: $75 public, $50 Art League members
Quick Draw add-on: $25
Do I have to participate in the Paint Out to do the Quick Draw
Yes. Quick Draw is an optional add-on for registered Paint Out artists.
What are the approved painting locations
Approved locations include: Burkes Beach (park at Chaplin Community Park), Coligny Beach Park, Coastal Discovery Museum, Driessen Beach Park, Fish Haul Beach Park, Jarvis Creek Park, Rowing and Sailing Center at Squire Pope Community Park, Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina, Zion Cemetery and Baynard Mausoleum.
Do locations have rules or hours I need to follow
Yes. Artists must follow posted rules and hours at each location. Coastal Discovery Museum grounds are open 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Please paint respectfully at historic sites and keep walkways clear in high traffic areas.
Will I have to pay for parking
Some beach lots may have paid parking during peak season. Always follow posted signage. Parking guidance will be included in the final artist packet and location list.
Where does check in and stamping happen
All check in and stamping takes place at Art League Gallery (14 Shelter Cove Lane). Registered artists must have blank surfaces stamped at the gallery before painting. Stamped work is required for Wet Paint Gallery eligibility and awards consideration. Check in and stamping times will be provided to registered artists.
What is the Wet Paint Gallery
A public display at Art League Gallery featuring eligible Paint Out artwork. Works may be available for purchase at the Wet Paint Gallery.
How many pieces can I submit to the Wet Paint Gallery
Up to two finished works per artist.
When is Wet Paint Gallery drop off
Drop off begins at 10:00 AM on April 9 and continues until 2:00 PM on April 10 for awards eligibility.
Do I have to sell my work
No. You may choose to submit for judging only or for judging and sale. If for sale, minimum pricing applies.
What are the minimum prices
Paint Out pieces: $400 minimum
Quick Draw pieces: $200 minimum
What is the commission on sales
40 percent to Art League of Hilton Head.
How do awards work
Eligible stamped paintings submitted by the deadline will be judged. Awards are announced at the Awards Reception on April 10.
What awards are offered
First place is $1,000. Additional awards will be posted once finalized.
What is the Quick Draw
A fast-paced public painting event on April 11 with a set painting window, followed by judging and a public display and sale.
Who is the Quick Draw judge
Carol Iglesias
Where is the Quick Draw held
Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina.
What happens if it rains or weather is unsafe
We will share a weather plan with registered artists, including any alternate procedures and early drop off options if needed. Safety comes first.
What should I bring
A plein air setup, sunscreen, water, bug spray, and weights for wind. Display requirements for Wet Paint Gallery will be provided to registered artists.
Is there a waiver
Yes. Artists must sign event waiver and release forms to participate.
Judges
We are honored to welcome two celebrated artists to judge this year’s events: Catherine Hillis for the Paint Out awards and Carol Iglesias for Quick Draw. Read their full bios below.
Catherine Hillis has enjoyed the arts all her life. She won awards for her artwork as a child and was a musician in high school and college. She acted and modeled in print and television ads as a youngster, later majoring in Theatre at the University of Georgia. She knew she would always be involved in the arts in some way.
After receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts, cum laude, from the University of Georgia, Hillis continued her Master of Fine Art studies at the University of Texas. Her journalist husband’s career took her to different cities, finally settling in the Virginia and Washington D.C. area, where she established her reputation as a fine art watercolor artist and a popular instructor. In late 2017, she moved to St. Simons Island, on the coast of southern Georgia, to continue her work, inspired by the Lowcountry, the beach and the spirit of the area.
Hillis works both in the studio and outdoors. During the past few years, the artist has traveled extensively to plein air competitions, fulfilling her love for painting nature and history. She is drawn to scenes that are often forgotten or neglected and finds the intrinsic beauty in them. Hillis believes that observation is her best teacher and she is known for the effect of light and movement in her work.
Hillis has won hundreds of awards and honors at competitive shows regionally and nationally. She’s earned eight Signature Memberships from national watercolor organizations and was one of 40 elected members of the prestigious Washington Society of Landscape Painters. The artist regularly competes in international watercolor exhibitions as well as plein air competitions and invitational shows. Her painting, “Gift From the Sea,” was recently included in an international watercolor exhibition in the Quingdao Laotian Museum of Art, China and she served as artist in residence in Dinan, France (2007) and at Hot Springs National Park (2010).
Catherine Hillis was a respected instructor teaching classes at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, VA and at Frederick Community College as well as workshops nationally and abroad. Her watercolor paintings are included in museum, corporate and personal collections and have been published in many venues, including Fine Art Connoisseur Magazine, Watercolor Artist Magazine, Plein Air Magazine, American Artist Magazine, Splash 12, Splash 14, Splash 18, the Artistic Touch series of water-media books, The Washington Post, the Best of America Watercolor Artists & Artisans, Volume 1 and the Best of Virginia Artists & Artisans 2005. Hillis teaches a series of brief watercolor lessons on MonkeySee.com.
Please visit catherinehillis.com for more information regarding galleries, original artwork and classes or email catherine.h.hillis@gmail.com.
Catherine Hillis Studios, LLC | www.thecharlesstreetgallery.com
The Pedicure by Catherine Hillis
A Gift From the Sea by Catherine Hillis
CAROL IGLESIAS was born in Montreal, Canada, studied art in the Pacific Northwest and lives on Hilton Head Island. She is an award winning artist, plein air painter, instructor and juror who has exhibited her paintings extensively at galleries, museums and shows. Recently, she won first place in Pastel at the Society of Bluffton Artists 29th Annual Judged Show and was accepted into the Biennale 28th National Juried Exhibition. Relocating to the island has been the inspiration for her recent work..
Carol enjoys teaching oils, pastels and plein air painting. She employs a colorful impressionistic style and has taught specialized workshops over the last 23 years including at the Workhouse Arts Center outside of Washington D.C.
She is currently a member of The American Impressionist Society, Oil Painters of America, The Pastel Society of America, Laguna Plein Air Painters Association and Southeastern Pastel Society.
Carol’s paintings are in public and private collections throughout the U.S. and in five countries. Her work has been published in newspapers, magazines and books, including The Freelance Star, Le Petit Bleu des Cotes d’ Amour, Quest France, Elan Magazine, American Art Collector Magazine, The Piedmont Virginian Magazine, The Best of America Pastel Artists, Volume II, 2017 American Art Collector Book, The Hilton Head Island Sun, and The Bluffton Sun.
In 2012 she was awarded a prestigious Artist Residency for one month at Les Amis de la Grande Vigne in Dinan, France. One of Carol’s paintings was selected for the Museum’s permanent collection and was on exhibition in France during 2013 and again in 2019.
“Sunset on the Beach” Pastel by Carol Iglesias
Impressionist Painting in Plein Air (Oils, Acrylics, or Pastels; All Skill Levels)
Instructor: Carol Iglesias
Cost: $330 ($297 for members)
Register
Plein Air Painting in Watercolor (Beginner-Intermediate & Advanced)
Instructor: Catherine Hillis
Cost: $380 ($342 for members)
Register
Whether you’re a seasoned plein air painter or looking to try painting outdoors for the first time, the Hilton Head Island Plein Air Paint Out offers an inspiring way to connect with the landscape, the local arts community, and fellow artists.
To register, call (843) 842-5738 or click here.