En plein air is a French expression which means "in the open air", and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors.  The last week in June, Garrett County will host a group of international artists who have come to paint the beauty of western Maryland.

Journées de Internationale Peinture will be in the county from June 20 through 27.  The group is comprised of 23 artists and spouses from Switzerland, England, France, and the United States.  Members of the Garrett County Arts Council are serving as host families while the artists are in the area.

The visit to Western Maryland was planned by members of the group from the Wheeling, West Virginia.  Organizer Kathy Thompson, a former Garrett County property owner, says "I have always loved the scenery and natural assets of Garrett County.  When planning this year's group tour to the United States I could think of no better location."

The artists will be visiting Deep Creek Lake State Park, downtown Oakland, Swallow Falls State Park, a private farm in the Friendsville area and the studio of a local painter.  Time is allowed for the group to relax and enjoy the county.

It is expected that each person will be able to complete several works during the week.  On Friday evening, June 26, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. the artwork will be on display at

Will ‘O Wisp at Deep Creek Lake.  Some of the paintings will be available for sale.

The group will meet again in Saddleworth, England in 2010. For information, contact the Garrett County Arts Council, 301-334-6580.