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GLOUCESTER, Va., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 Heart of the River Plein Air Invitational concluded with a resounding celebration of artistic excellence, awarding top honors to a curated group of nationally and internationally acclaimed painters. Held annually in historic Gloucester, Virginia, the event continues to distinguish itself as one of the East Coast’s most prestigious outdoor painting competitions.
Organized by the Cook Foundation and presented as the cornerstone of the Gloucester Arts Festival, the invitational brought together nearly 30 artists from across the U.S. and Europe to create original works over a 10-day residency. Painting on location in tidal marshes, historic townscapes, and along scenic riverbanks and marinas, the artists captured the unique atmospheric light and rural character of Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay region and watershed.
“We were absolutely thrilled to welcome some of the finest Plein Air artists from across the country—and even across the pond—to compete in the 2025 Heart of the River Plein Air Competition,” said Suzanne Scott, Chair of the Plein Air Committee. “The talent this year was truly outstanding, and we’re so proud to showcase artwork that beautifully captures the stunning landscapes and scenic charm of our coastal community.”
David Lussier won both Best in Show for Fish Shack on Perrin Creek and Artists’ Choice for King’s Fish Campo, underscoring his mastery of plein air technique and storytelling. Other standout winners included Doug Clarke (2nd Place), Andras Bality (3rd Place), and Lyudmila Tomova, who was honored for Best Figurative in a Landscape.
With over 20 juried awards, the festival also spotlighted innovation in light, color, and composition across categories such as Best Nocturne, Best Architectural, and Best Use of Light. Notably, the event has increasingly attracted collectors and critics who recognize plein air as a vibrant dialogue between traditional techniques and contemporary expression.
Now in its ninth year, the Gloucester Arts Festival and the Cook Foundation are building a legacy of cultural leadership in the American South. The exhibition is at the Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester through June 28, 2025. The exhibition space in the historic Main Street district supports year-round engagement with contemporary American art.
To learn more or inquire about future artist invitations, visit www.gloucesterartsfestival.com or www.thecookfoundation.org.
The Gloucester Arts Festival and the Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester are projects of the Cook Foundation, a tax-exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN 54-1894579.
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