Artists invited to take part in first-ever Ford House Paint Out!
The tulips are in bloom. There’s the shoreline of Lake St. Clair, a variety of mature trees and the Ford House itself.
All of these could be the subject of a lovely painting during the Ford House’s first-ever Paint Out!
This inaugural May 14 event is a one-day one-ofa-kind opportunity for local artists to create beautiful works of art on the 87-acre historic estate.
All skill levels are invited to channel their inner Monet or O’Keefe during the paint out.
Afterward, everyone is invited to submit their paintings for juried prizes of $1,000, $500 and $250 and then sell their paintings at a party that evening.
“Ford House in spring is the perfect inspiration for painters who enjoy nature in its true beauty,” said Emily Sullivan, Ford House education programs coordinator.
Special guest juror is notable Michigan-based artist Heiner Hertling, who began his art career in Hamburg, Germany. In 1965, he moved to New York where he honed his talents as a commercial artist before settling in Detroit, where he worked in creating advertising illustrations for the auto industry. His work is displayed in museums and private collections internationally. His television series, “Your Brush with Nature,” a plein air painting show, has given him a stage to share his knowledge with other artists around the world.
Artists will be invited to work on the grounds from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with juror selection at 4 p.m.
The day will end with the Fresh Paint Party, a reception where the public can meet the artists, see and purchase artwork, and enjoy refreshments.
Admission to the paint out and party is $30 for Ford House members, $35 for non-members. Painters will need to bring their own easel and supplies. Fresh Paint Party admission is $8 for Ford House members, $10 for non-members.
The historic lakeside estate was the family home of Edsel Ford — Henry and Clara Ford’s only son — where he lived with his wife Eleanor and their children beginning in 1928. Since 1978, Ford House has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors to share in Eleanor Ford’s vision of preserving the estate for future generations to enjoy through interpretive tours, family activities, lectures, exhibits, gardens, and grounds events. It was named a National Historic Landmark in 2016.
“We’re excited to see what masterpieces are created, and it’s always a joy to provide artists with a chance to have their work displayed and acknowledged by the community,” said Sullivan.