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…

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)

You’ll leave better, bolder, and more excited to paint than you’ve felt in a long time.

Agenda

7:45 am - 8:15 am Innovation Stage A

All Day Paint Out: Departure

Understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise decision-making, automation, and customer engagement.

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4:00 pm - 4:15 pm Innovation Stage A

Return

Explore real-world applications of blockchain in supply chains, identity management, and digital security.

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6:45 am - 7:30 am Innovation Stage A

Breakfast

Understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise decision-making, automation, and customer engagement.

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7:30 am - 8:15 am Innovation Stage A

Home Room

Explore real-world applications of blockchain in supply chains, identity management, and digital security.

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8:30 am - 12:30 pm Main Auditorium

Sessions

Meet founders of groundbreaking startups and hear pitch-style presentations on how they are solving today’s toughest tech problems.

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1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Paint-Out

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Closing Party

6:45 am - 7:30 am Innovation Stage A

Breakfast

Understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise decision-making, automation, and customer engagement.

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7:30 am - 8:15 am Innovation Stage A

Home Room

Explore real-world applications of blockchain in supply chains, identity management, and digital security.

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8:30 am - 3:30 pm Main Auditorium

Sessions

Meet founders of groundbreaking startups and hear pitch-style presentations on how they are solving today’s toughest tech problems.

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4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Paint-Out

8:30 pm - 10:00 pm

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:

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

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 POLICY
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
Cancellation on or after 3/16/26 = No Refund

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

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 POLICY
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
Cancellation on or after 3/16/26 = No Refund

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

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 POLICY
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
Cancellation on or after 3/16/26 = No Refund

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.

Address: 1984 Historic Hwy 165 A, Branson, MO 65616

Distance from Conference hotel: 6 min (2.2 mi)via Historic Hwy 165 N

The Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center

Attendees must call to make reservations.

Address: 3050 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, MO 65616

Distance from Conference hotel:10 min (3.6 mi)via N State Hwy 265 and Animal Safari Rd

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?

Plein air is a French term for “outside” or “outdoors”. The French coined the term plein air painting (technically: painting en plein air) to mean painting outside, in direct contact with nature and the elements. There has been a significant movement toward plein air painting in appreciation of the beauty of nature. Nature is always changing, and one can never paint the same scene twice. This is what makes plein air so different from studio painting. Creation never lacks interesting areas to travel and paint … and painting with friends makes it even better.

What exactly is the Plein Air Convention & Expo (PACE)?

The Plein Air Convention & Expo (PACE), organized by Streamline Publishing, is a premier event dedicated to plein air painting. Founded by Eric Rhoads over a dozen years ago, PACE has established itself as a leading platform for plein air enthusiasts to gather, learn, and create. When most people think of a convention, they think of a huge conference, like the political conventions they see on TV. PACE is not that. At PACE, attendees experience superior education through workshops and demonstrations conducted by world-renowned instructors in the field of plein air painting. These sessions provide invaluable insights and techniques that empower artists to enhance their skills and creativity. Moreover, PACE offers a unique environment where like-minded individuals can connect and share their passion for painting outdoors. It fosters a community of artists who support and inspire each other, creating a vibrant atmosphere conducive to learning and growth. In addition to education and networking, PACE features an Expo Hall where attendees can access a wide range of supplies specifically tailored for plein air painting. This includes everything from paints and brushes to easels and outdoor gear, ensuring that artists have the tools they need to excel in their craft. Overall, the Plein Air Convention & Expo is not just an event, but a transformative experience for plein air artists of all levels, providing them with the knowledge, resources, and community to thrive in their artistic journey.

Opening Ceremony — you don’t want to miss it!

We kick off our event with an Opening Ceremony — a fun burst of creativity, camaraderie, and celebration. We introduce our esteemed faculty, hailing from many corners of the globe, who are here to ignite your passion and guide you through the intricacies of plein air painting. Their expertise and dedication promise to profoundly enrich your artistic pursuits. In the spirit of honoring excellence, we present a Lifetime Achievement Award to a luminary whose contributions have shaped the landscape of plein air painting. The remarkable legacy of these honorees inspires us all to reach greater heights. And stay tuned for the unveiling of the PleinAir Salon Grand Prize, a testament to outstanding artistic achievement. We also have a special (and surprising!) onstage painting game, showcasing fun and creativity in action. You won’t want to miss this inspiring spectacle! Following the Opening Ceremony, we continue our festivities with a lively cocktail party offering sumptuous hors d’oeuvres, where conversations flow as freely as our artistic expressions.

Daily Agendas

Each day of the regular conference begins with a stand-up breakfast and coffee/tea starting between 6:45-7:30 AM, followed by the Home Room at 7:30 AM for announcements and exciting prize giveaways. Throughout the morning, you’ll immerse yourself in a diverse array of stage sessions designed to expand your skills and perspective. Whether you choose to delve deeply into one area or sample from each stage, there’s something enriching for every artistic soul. In the early afternoon, another Home Room session awaits with lots of prizes, paving the way for an afternoon of group plein air painting adventures. For those who thrive in the nighttime hours, our captivating evening sessions offer further opportunities to learn and connect. This schedule repeats daily, culminating in a breathtaking final day of painting at a stunning location where your creativity can flourish amid natural beauty.

How to Best Navigate the Convention

Main Stage Sessions The first session of the day is on the Main Stage; after that, locations are varied throughout the day. These large sessions may feel a bit overwhelming, as everyone attends. The key is to arrive early and try to sit up close. Our professional tech team will place huge screens to make everything easy to view, so you won’t miss a thing.

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.

What is a “Faculty Field Painter” and what do they provide?

A “Faculty Field Painter” is a PACE mentor or instructor who assists artists during outdoor painting sessions. Here’s how they will help you: Mentorship and Assistance: Faculty Field Painters are experienced artists who offer guidance, answer questions, and provide help to participants during painting sessions. On-Site Availability: They are present in the painting area and make themselves available to the artists. Visible Identifiers: Faculty Field Painters can be easily identified by their bright “FACULTY” hats and tall flags. Accessible Help: Artists can use a “STOP HERE” card to signal a Faculty Field Painter when they need assistance. (These cards are provided in the bags at registration.) Interactive Participation: Some Faculty Field Painters may also set up and paint alongside the participants, providing a hands-on learning experience. Specialized Mentors: For those in specific courses, such as the Plein Air Basics Course, there are dedicated mentors who work exclusively with those groups. This setup ensures that participants have immediate access to expert advice and support, enhancing their learning and painting experience.

The Planning of PACE (Plein Air Convention & Expo)

Duration and Effort Time Frame: It takes two years or longer to plan a PACE convention. Team Effort: A dedicated team works tirelessly to organize and execute the event. Selection of Location and Faculty Handpicked and Vetted: Locations and faculty are carefully selected to ensure top-quality teaching and experiences. Elite Instructors: Faculty includes internationally renowned painters like Joseph Zbukvic and Marc Dalessio — artists who are considered “Ivy League”-level teachers in the painting world. Event Features Variety of Mediums: Teaching sessions and demos cover a variety of painting mediums on multiple stages. Expo Hall: Top vendors who provide a significant array of plein air-specific art materials for learning and purchase. Special Mentors: Exclusive mentors for specific groups, such as Plein Air Basics Course attendees.

What’s Included in the Cost

Instruction and Mentorship Access to Top Painters: Opportunity to be taught by and spend personal time with some of the best painters in the world. Faculty Field Painters: Mentors available on site to assist during plein air afternoon sessions. Learning and Transformation Life-Changing Experience: The chance to experience significant growth and transformation as a painter. Comprehensive Learning: Exposure to a broad range of painting techniques and mediums. Expo Hall Access Vendor Art Materials: Access to a wide variety of plein air-specific art materials for purchase and learning. Networking and Community Community of Artists: Being part of a community of like-minded artists, fostering connections and collaborations. The cost encompasses the comprehensive and invaluable experience of learning from elite instructors, access to exclusive materials, and the transformative nature of the event, making it a priceless investment for attendees.

A convention ticket gives complete access to the following:

Convention orientation Opening ceremony, which includes the PleinAir Salon Grand Prize Presentation, Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation, and more All-access pass to all main stage sessions and oil painting sessions All-access pass to all watercolor sessions All-access pass to all pastel sessions All-access pass to all gouache and acrylic sessions All-access pass to all Expo Hall sessions A ticket to participate in the world’s largest paint-out each day for four days (some venues may have an extra fee) Breakfast each morning on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday All speakers All demonstrations An Expo Hall with art materials from all the best plein air vendors Book and video signings Photos with faculty members Opening cocktail party Closing party Evening speciality sessions Critique sessions Amazing prizes given away each day PACE Facebook Group, to collaborate with your fellow attendees before the event and continue to learn and keep in touch after

What is extra?

Pre-convention workshops Plein Air Basics Course Bus transportation to and from the paint-outs Easel space in the Art Show & Sale Entry to some of the paint-out venues Platinum VIP Package Gold VIP Package

Can I pay in installments?

Payment plans are offered through Streamline Publishing for general admission tickets only. When you register for the convention, you can select the payment plan for monthly installments. After the initial payment, payments will be deducted from your account every 30 days until paid in full. For VIP packages, Streamline offers the option of monthly installments through Affirm Shop Pay (a third-party payment processor not affiliated with Streamline Publishing).

What is the VIP Program?

The VIP Experience at PACE offers two levels of exclusive access: Gold VIP and Platinum VIP. We aim to make your experience at PACE as memorable and enriching as possible with these exclusive perks! Gold VIP Experience: Reserved close-up seating Invitation to the VIP cocktail party with faculty Access to the exclusive VIP Lounge stocked with refreshments and snacks all day Special collection of VIP goodies To find out more about the Gold VIP Experience, click here Platinum VIP Experience: Includes everything in the Gold VIP package Special event, like a private studio tour with a renowned artist Front row seating for the main stage Exclusive dinner with the main stage artists Stuffed goodie bag In-room gift To find out more about the Platinum VIP Experience, click here Note: The Platinum VIP program is currently sold out for 2026

How do I get to PACE?

PACE 2026 is being held in the stunning Ozarks in Branson, Missouri. Convention Hotel: Chateau on the Lake 415 N. State Hwy 265 Branson, MO 65616 417-334-1161 The closest airports M. Graham Clark Downtown Airport, approximately 20 minutes away Branson Airport, approximately 25 minutes away Springfield-Branson Airport (SGF), approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes away Airport Shuttle Service There is no airport shuttle service to Chateau on the Lake. Major cities nearby Springfield, Missouri, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes away Please put Chateau on the Lake (415 N. State Hwy 265 Branson, MO 65616, United States) into your GPS for exact driving times.

Will I need my own transportation?

Having a car is not essential for attending PACE. However, transportation to and from the airport and to the paint-outs is NOT included with PACE tickets. Bus tickets for paint-out transportation will be available for purchase closer to the event (approximately 2 months before). Carpooling is encouraged once you arrive at the event; the Help Desk team on site can assist with arranging rides.

How do I get to the paint-outs?

Transportation to and from the paint-outs is NOT included in your PACE ticket, so you will need to arrange transportation of some kind. If you decide to rent a vehicle, please consider offering space in your car to others — carpooling is a great way to make new friends. Once we have finalized our paint-out locations and timing, we will offer bus tickets for sale.

Do you offer a bus service to paint locations?

Once we finalize our paint-out locations and timing, we will offer bus tickets for sale.

What meals are included in the PACE ticket?

There is a cocktail party with heavy hors d’oeuvres on Thursday evening, May 14, and a stand-up breakfast at 7 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings.

Where can I get food for meals that aren’t provided?

Chateau on the Lake offers restaurants from fine dining to quick meals. There will be grab-and-go options available for painting days. The hotel is within 15-20 minutes of multiple restaurants. There is also the option to use delivery services such as Uber Eats and Grubhub.

How do I make hotel reservations/where should I stay?

The convention hotel is Chateau on the Lake. We have negotiated a special rate for PACE attendees. Reserve your room here. Staying off site is an option, but it is much more fun to be at the convention hotel — where the action is!

What is your PACE ticket cancellation policy?

100% “Peace of Mind” Guarantee: We understand life happens and circumstances change, so we give the option of transferring a purchased ticket to a future in-person event within the following year, or offer refunds based on the cancellation policy below. 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 Cancellation on or after 3/16/26 = No Refund

Do I have to cancel my hotel separately?

If you reserved a room at the convention hotel, please contact the hotel directly to cancel your reservation. Failure to do so may result in no-show charges.

What are pre-convention workshops?

Pre-convention workshops are sessions that occur before the official start of the convention and are led by faculty members. These workshops focus on instruction and demonstrations rather than being paint-along sessions. The Basics Course is an exception and may include paint-along elements. It’s important to note that pre-convention workshops are not included in the general admission ticket. Pre-convention workshops — 2025 Instructors: Carrie Curran, Thomas W. Schaller, Andrew Tischler

What is the Plein Air Basics Course pre-convention workshop?

For Beginners If you’re a beginner or it’s your first time at PACE, consider attending the Plein Air Basics Course pre-convention workshop and the orientation session at 2:45 PM on Thursday to meet other beginners. The Basics Course is designed to provide foundational learning tools for new painters and help them get the most out of the convention. This workshop will take place on May 14 from 7 AM-2:30 PM. For more information, click here.

The pre-convention workshops and the Plein Air Basics Course are offered at the same time. Can I sign up for both?

Yes, you can sign up for both the pre-convention workshops and the Plein Air Basics Course. However, these workshops overlap, so you cannot attend both workshops in full. If you choose to purchase tickets to more than one workshop, you are free to move between them as you see fit. This allows you to experience portions of each workshop according to your interests and schedule.

Can I sign up for the pre-convention workshops once I’m on site?

Pre-convention workshops are on sale based upon availability.

Are there different levels to the workshops?

Our workshops do not have specific levels. Our faculty is highly skilled at communicating with a diverse audience, ensuring that both beginners and advanced painters will find workshops that suit their needs and skill levels. This inclusive approach allows all attendees to benefit from the instruction provided, regardless of their experience.

PACE Facebook Group

Once you have purchased your ticket for PACE 2025, you can ask to join the Plein Air Convention Attendees Facebook Page. There you can ask other attendees for advice and information. This is a great way to connect with fellow participants, share experiences, and get tips on making the most out of the convention. Click here Plein Air Convention Attendees to join the Facebook group.