A shocked Teri Bennett accepted the first place prize at this year’s Plein Air Paint Out.
Bennett, a North Saanich resident, has entered the competition each year since it began. “It was a pleasure to give her first place,” said organizer Odette LaRoche.
Second place honours went to Jim McFarland of Victoria and third place to John Hofman of Nanaimo.
The 2011 Paint Out drew artists from Gabriola Island, Nanaimo, Qualicum and other parts of Vancouver Island. LaRoche says she has more plans for next year to add interest and inter activity to the day-long celebration of nature and the arts.
“We are looking forward to a great tenth year grand celebration. We will draw artists from the mainland and the U.S.,” LaRoche said.
Paintings that were not sold on the day are on display at the Mary Winspear Centre until the end of August and are available for purchase. Contact Odette LaRoche at 250-655-8278 or info@odettelarochegallery.com for more information or to make a purchase.