By SABRINA BERNDT

Washington Daily News

After a weekend of rainy weather, participants in the Plein Air on the Pamlico Festival packed up their paints and brushes following an awards ceremony announcing winners of the inaugural competition.

Hosted by Arts of the Pamlico and the Washington Harbor District Arts Stops, the event ended Saturday as artists submitted their pieces to be judged. The winners for each prize were announced at the reception, and artists had the opportunity to dry off after two days of painting in the rain.

“We were so happy with the turnout, especially because of the threats of the weather,” said Thad Aley, the art exhibits and events coordinator at Arts of the Pamlico. “The artists were very resilient in finding covered spaces. A lot of locals gave the artists areas like their front porch or patio area, so they so they could help out to make sure we got some great pieces.”

After the 23 artists dropped off their artwork, the works were judged by Dan Beck, and award-winning contemporary impressionism artist. Beck then critiqued each winning piece during the reception, along with nine honorable mentions.

First place went to Marcus McClanahan from Grimesland; Bob Ray from Washington won second place; and third place went to John Groesser from Grimesland. The Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce’s Summer Fest Award, a separate award with a larger cash prize, went to Carol Wood from Raleigh.

“For having a day to throw together a painting, or two days, it’s just some amazing work,” Aley said.

Along with the critique, the reception also offered music by Chuck Phillips and a wet-paint sale, where artists retained 100% of commission from sales.

Works will be displayed in the Lane Gallery at the Turnage Theatre until July 6. For those who were not able to attend the reception, the artwork is available for sale to the public until the exhibition ends.