
The Most In-Demand Event for Outdoor Painters And
the Week That Can Change Everything for Your Art
Spend five days learning from the world’s best plein air painters, painting in the stunning Ozarks, and walking away with more confidence, more clarity, and more connection than you’ve ever felt in your work.
May 14-18 2026 in The Ozarks—Branson, MO
Click above to dramatically improve your paintings this year
Featured
artists
Learn from an elite lineup of world-class plein air painters, each bringing their unique techniques, insights, and years of experience to help you grow as an artist. These experts have been handpicked to guide you through demonstrations and step-by-step instruction.
May 14-18 2026 in The Ozarks—Branson, MO
Join the World’s Largest Plein Air Gathering and
Walk Away a More Confident, Connected, Inspired Artist
Once a year, something magical happens…
Artists from all over the globe — from beginners picking up a brush for the first time to seasoned pros with gallery walls — gather for five unforgettable days of painting, learning, and connection.
This is the Plein Air Convention & Expo (PACE) — the world’s largest and most celebrated event for outdoor painters.
But it’s so much more than a convention.
It’s your chance to learn directly from over 80 of the top plein air artists on the planet — instructors hand-picked by PleinAir® Magazine — and watch them reveal their techniques across five dynamic stages: oil, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, and gouache.
Each morning, you’ll be indoors learning from the masters —. And each afternoon, you’ll be out in nature, painting shoulder-to-shoulder with those very same instructors, applying what you learned in real time.
It’s where big breakthroughs happen in the kinds of places artists dream of capturing on their canvas.
And by the end of the week?
You’ll leave changed.
With new skills, new friends, and a new fire in your creative journey.
Click above to dramatically improve your paintings this year
This is 5 Days of Growth, Connection, and
Hands-On Coaching You Won’t
Find Anywhere Else
You’ll walk in with whatever level you’re at and leave with more skill, clarity, and momentum than you’ve ever had.
That’s what makes this different… And that’s why so many artists come back year after year.
The Artists Who Will Help You Make the Leap
The right teacher changes everything.
And here, you’ll be learning from some of the most accomplished, generous, and sought-after painters in the world — all of whom are here to help you grow.
Whether you’re just starting or ready for your next big breakthrough, these are the artists who will help you get there
With special
guest artists
But hurry! Plein Air Convention tends to fill fast
Our support team has limited bandwidth. Once we reach
capacity, we’ll close this page down!
All Happening May 14-18 2026 in The Ozarks—Branson, MO
Your Studio for The Week:
The Ozarks!
The Plein Air Convention & Expo is set in the heart of the Ozarks — one of the most naturally inspiring places in the country.
Rolling hills, glowing lakes, wide-open skies, and golden light that shifts by the hour create a
It’s endlessly inspiring and every view is a painting waiting to happen.
This is your studio for the week. And it’s going to be unforgettable.
Your host during


Eric Rhoads
Eric Rhoads is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 40 years in radio broadcasting, 25 years in publishing, and more than a decade in the art industry.
He is the founder and chairman of Streamline Publishing, known for Radio Ink, Fine Art Connoisseur, and PleinAir magazines, along with major industry conferences and art events.
Rhoads pioneered online radio with RadioCentral Networks and has launched multiple successful media ventures.
A respected author, columnist, and speaker on media, marketing, and art, he’s also an accomplished painter and art marketer.
Rhoads lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife and triplet children.
Join Thousands of Artists Who’ve Had Their
Breakthrough at The Plein Air Convention & Expo
This Is for You If…
- You’re just getting started and want to build confidence fast
- You’ve been painting for years but feel stuck or in a rut
- You’re self-taught and want to fill in the gaps
- You’re a pro looking to sharpen your edge or explore new mediums
- You’re craving community — people who speak your language and get your goals
- You want to finally take your painting seriously — and have fun doing it

No matter where you are on the path, this is a place where artists grow.
What You’ll Actually Get Out of This
(Hint: It’s More Than Just Paintings)

- Techniques that actually stick — taught by artists who not only know how to paint, but know how to explain it in a way that finally clicks for you
- Personal feedback and real-world advice — the kind that clears up what’s been holding you back and shows you exactly how to move forward
- A body of work you’re proud of — finished pieces painted on location, plus a dozen more ideas and starts that’ll keep your momentum rolling long after you get home
- A community of artist friends, mentors, and supporters — people who inspire you, push you, and truly understand what it means to be on this path
- A deeper trust in your own voice and vision — plus the confidence to try new things, make bold choices, and stand behind your work
- Insights, breakthroughs, and lightbulb moments — not just things you heard, but things that landed
- And a renewed sense of drive — that fired-up, unstoppable feeling you get when you know you’re finally on the right track
You’ll leave better, bolder, and more excited to paint than you’ve felt in a long time.
Agenda
All Day Paint Out: Departure
Understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise decision-making, automation, and customer engagement.
Breakfast
Understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise decision-making, automation, and customer engagement.
Home Room
Explore real-world applications of blockchain in supply chains, identity management, and digital security.
Sessions
Meet founders of groundbreaking startups and hear pitch-style presentations on how they are solving today’s toughest tech problems.
Paint-Out
Closing Party
Breakfast
Understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise decision-making, automation, and customer engagement.
Home Room
Explore real-world applications of blockchain in supply chains, identity management, and digital security.
Sessions
Meet founders of groundbreaking startups and hear pitch-style presentations on how they are solving today’s toughest tech problems.
Paint-Out
Evening Sessions
For the Price of a Single Workshop
You’ll Learn from Over 75 of the World’s Best Painters
and Paint Right Beside Them
Starting May 14-18 2026 in The Ozarks—Branson, MO

Most workshops give you one teacher for a couple of days.
PACE gives you five full days of learning from 75+ of the world’s top plein air artists — all hand-selected for their ability to teach, inspire, and help you grow.
And you’re not just watching them…You’re learning from them, painting with them and getting direct feedback in real time.
Here’s just a taste of what’s packed into the experience:
- Improve Your Painting, Fast Learn from master instructors in oil, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, and gouache — and finally get answers to the things that have been holding you back.
- Practice What You Learn Paint in jaw-dropping locations every afternoon — while your instructors walk the field, coaching and encouraging you on the spot.
- Meet Your Heroes Ask questions. Shake hands. Take a selfie with your favorite artist. These are the names you’ve looked up to — and now they’re here, with you.
- Feel Like You Belong Our Newcomers Orientation and Friend Finder make it easy to connect, even if you’re coming solo. You’ll never feel like the odd one out.
- Watch Dozens of Live Demos Five indoor stages. Every style and approach. Giant HD screens so you don’t miss a single stroke.
- Stock Up in the Expo Hall A candy store of art supplies, tools, and gear — with show-only discounts you won’t find anywhere else.
- Shop the Art Show Buy original artwork from faculty and fellow attendees at “family prices” — and maybe even sell your own.
- Take It at Your Own Pace Go all in from morning to night, or step back and soak it in. No pressure, just possibility.
And yes — all of this costs less than most single-artist workshops.
Want to Go Even Deeper?
Add a Pre-Convention Workshop and Start Your Growth Early
Before the convention officially kicks off, we offer a select few hands-on workshops taught by some of our top instructors. These are smaller, more focused sessions designed to give you even more time at the easel — and a serious head start before the main event begins.
Spots are limited and these always sell out — so if one speaks to you, grab it while you can.
Andrew Tischler
Pre-Convention Oil Workshop
Carrie Curran
Pre-Convention Beginner Session Workshop
Thomas W. Schaller
Pre-Convention Watercolor Workshop
Join PACE May 14-18 2026 in The Ozarks—Branson, MO
Today: Starting at just $1,497
Secure your ticket today by selecting your preferred ticket tier, down below. You’ll also have a chance to add-on Essential Techniques day on the next page.
General Admission
Early Bird Pricing
$1,497
- 5 Full Days of The Plein Air Convention
- All Paint-Outs
- Connect & Network With Other Artists
NOTE: Allows entrance to all five days. General
Pass holders may attend all main event sessions.
This does NOT include pre-convention workshop,
basics course, transportation to the paint outs,
easel space.
Cancellation today – 12/1/25 = 100% Refund, less a $50 processing fee
Cancellation 12/2/25- 3/15/26 = 50% Refund, less a $50 processing fee
Or just
$228/ month
We’re artists too—so we get it.
Investing in your growth shouldn’t be out of reach. That’s why we’ve created flexible payment options to make attending the PleinAir Convention & Expo more accessible.
If paying in full isn’t doable right now, you can secure your spot with a smaller upfront payment and spread the rest out over time. Same unforgettable experience. Same world-class instruction. Just easier on your budget.
Gold VIP Package
Early Bird Pricing
$2,692
- VIP Close-up Main Stage Seating
- VIP Lounge Access
- VIP Cocktail Party with Faculty
- Gold VIP Hat
- VIP Pin and Badge
- VIP Ribbon
NOTE: Allows entrance to all five days. General
Pass holders may attend all main event sessions.
This does NOT include pre-convention workshop,
basics course, transportation to the paint outs,
easel space.
Cancellation today – 12/1/25 = 100% Refund, less a $50 processing fee
Cancellation 12/2/25- 3/15/26 = 50% Refund, less a $50 processing fee
Or just
$406/ month
We’re artists too—so we get it.
Investing in your growth shouldn’t be out of reach. That’s why we’ve created flexible payment options to make attending the PleinAir Convention & Expo more accessible.
If paying in full isn’t doable right now, you can secure your spot with a smaller upfront payment and spread the rest out over time. Same unforgettable experience. Same world-class instruction. Just easier on your budget.
Platinum VIP Package
Early Bird Pricing
$4,692
- Guaranteed First Row Main Stage Seating
- VIP Lounge Access
- VIP Cocktail Party with Faculty
- Gold VIP Hat
- Platinum VIP Apron
- Platinum VIP Pin and Badge
- Platinum VIP Ribbon
- Special In-Room Gift
- Vendor Product Gift Bag
NOTE: Allows entrance to all five days. General
Pass holders may attend all main event sessions.
This does NOT include pre-convention workshop,
basics course, transportation to the paint outs,
easel space.
Cancellation today – 12/1/25 = 100% Refund, less a $50 processing fee
Cancellation 12/2/25- 3/15/26 = 50% Refund, less a $50 processing fee
Or just
$692 month
We’re artists too—so we get it.
Investing in your growth shouldn’t be out of reach. That’s why we’ve created flexible payment options to make attending the PleinAir Convention & Expo more accessible.
If paying in full isn’t doable right now, you can secure your spot with a smaller upfront payment and spread the rest out over time. Same unforgettable experience. Same world-class instruction. Just easier on your budget.
Don’t forget your stay for the event

Or contact the hotel directly at 417-334-1161

View additional hotel options

Branson Hillside Hotel
Attendees must call to make reservations.
- 417-751-0395

The Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center
Attendees must call to make reservations.
- 417-337-4500
- 800-677-6906
Address: 3050 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, MO 65616
Frequently asked
questions
Browse answers to your questions on event access, billing, and all things The Plein Air Convention & Expo. Need more help? Reach out to us [email protected] and we’ll get back to you ASAP.
What is plein air painting?
What exactly is the Plein Air Convention & Expo (PACE)?
Opening Ceremony — you don’t want to miss it!
Daily Agendas
How to Best Navigate the Convention
Other Stages and Sessions When the other stages open, people are more spread out. Attendees are encouraged to move around to see everything offered. Please take full advantage of all the amazing sessions, speakers, and artist demos.
Unique Opportunities Remember, this is the opportunity of a lifetime. You may encounter faculty members at PACE who do not normally teach and are rarely seen on stage. Each convention is unique and special, providing an opportunity to connect or reconnect with the plein air community. We don’t know if the faculty we have in any given year will return, so seize the moment to learn from and engage with these incredible artists.