15th Annual Plein Air Fest Sees Exceptional Turnout

The National Museum of Wildlife Art (NMWA) held its 15th Annual Plein Air Fest, Etc. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, with resounding success. Forty-four invited artists took to NMWA’s Sculpture Trail overlooking the National Elk Refuge for a morning of live painting, music, and community celebration—drawing over 800 collectors, art enthusiasts, and first-time visitors alike. When the silent auction closed at 1 p.m., total gross sales reached $36,895, reflecting the continued engagement this beloved Jackson Hole event inspires.

Best in Show honors went to Katy Ann Fox, a Jackson Hole-based artist whose plein air work captured the dramatic landscape of the Tetons. The Runner-Up distinction was awarded to Nikita Budkov of Lewisville, Idaho—a first-year participant who depicted the National Elk Refuge with singular immediacy for his debut at the Fest.

The 2026 event also marked a strong showing from the other new voices. Five artists made their Plein Air Fest debut this year, in addition to Budkov, Jan Bushart, Gabriel Lopez, Mae Orm, and Rachel Smith all participated for the first time, and all sold. The 100% sell-through rate among debut participants speaks both to the caliber of artists NMWA continues to attract and to the vitality of the collector community that turns out each June for this signature event.

“After 15 years, the energy and excitement around this community-favorite event have only grown,” said NMWA Executive Director Steve Seamons. “Seeing hundreds of visitors engage with the artists, connect with the artwork, and enjoy the Sculpture Trail was truly inspiring.”

Artists competed in two categories: plein air, in which painters worked entirely from direct observation, and al fresco, which allowed artists to paint nature and wildlife subjects using reference, memory, or imagination. Best in Show awards were drawn exclusively from the plein air category. All works created during the event were offered through a silent auction beginning at 12:15 p.m.

“This event would not be possible without the incredible artists who share their talent with attendees, speak about their process, and truly make the event what it is,” said Programs & Events Manager Stefanie Nishio. “Collectors remarked on the quality of artwork on offer this year, and that was reflected in the strong sales results.”

The morning’s festivities extended well beyond the canvas. Attendees enjoyed coffee, mimosas, and pastries from Palate restaurant, live music from Derrik & The Dynamos, and complimentary admission to Museum galleries—creating a festive atmosphere that brought together artists, collectors, and the broader Jackson Hole community.

The 15th Annual Plein Air Fest, Etc. was generously sponsored by Barbara Carlsberg, Petria & Scott Fossel, Long Reimer Winegar, and the LUMW Foundation. All proceeds benefited the Museum and participating artists.