Events

To participate: Must be Artist Level Member (or above) May submit only one piece per change-out. Artwork should not exceed 30″ in any direction for display. Works MUST be framed or gallery wrapped, wired and ready for hanging. Artwork will not be accepted if it has been previously displayed in the Art Center’s Members’ Gallery. Artwork must have been created within the last 2 years.

If the artwork is sold during this period, ESAC will notify the artist and it may be replaced with a new piece! ESAC retains a 30% commission on sold work. Unsold work must be picked up on the day of change out. Participants will incur a $3/day storage fee for any pieces that remain by closing on the Wednesday following change out.

Artwork MUST be submitted on the date of take in.  Once the show has been hung, late entries will not be accepted.  Due to limited space, we will accept art on a first come basis.

Artwork will be accepted from 9am – until we reach the first 50 pieces on the following change-out date:

October 30, 2026

December 18, 2026

** First come, first served! We only have enough room for 50 pieces.

Find more information and the form for submission here

This annual exhibit showcases various work from Artist Level members and above of the Eastern Shore Art Association. Artists are encouraged to enter ONE original work done in any media. Works should not exceed 40 inches in any direction including frame. No theme.

Read more here

EVENT: MARCH 19 – 21, 2027 @ 10am-5pm each day

The OUTDOOR ART SHOW is located on the grounds of the Eastern Shore Art Center and the surrounding downtown area of Fairhope, Alabama on Oak and Section Streets. It is within walking distance to Mobile Bay, many specialty shops and restaurants. This is a cultural and social highlight for the Gulf Coast and attracts more than 250,000 visitors!

The art show has included prestigious, international and regional fine artists for the past 54 years. This year, Eastern Shore Art Center will accept an exclusive selection of renowned artists and cutting-edge newcomers to attract the most respected art dealers, collectors, interior designers and art enthusiasts. 

You can find the online application here: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=14539

Join us for a community celebration of painting in the great outdoors! 

This 8TH ANNUAL “paint out” will exemplify the artistic vibe of Fairhope. From sunrise to sunset, 60 artists will set up throughout the city with portable easels, chairs, and umbrellas along downtown streets, at Mosher’s castle, Fairhoper’s Community Park, the Pier, and more! 

We are now accepting "Pick My Spot" Sponsorships! Have your residence or business painted by a Plein Air Fairhope 2026 Artist!

During the event week, you now have the option to request an artist paint YOUR space. With $50, a painter can paint your spot and then you will receive VIP early entry to the opening reception for the first option to purchase the painting on exhibit.

*** What can you expect in Plein Air Fairhope 2026? ***

You can participate in Plein Air Fairhope as an artist, student, patron, or audience member.

Nov 2 – Nov 6, 2026: Plein Air Fairhope Paint Out! 60 participating artists will paint the town from sunrise to sunset! They’ll be downtown, by the pier, local farmlands, and more… All Painter Registrations are SOLD OUT!

Nov 3 – Nov 6, 2026: Plein Air Fairhope Wet Room. As painters finish artworks, they will be showcasing them at ESAC on tables while they dry and before they are framed for the official exhibit. Get a special sneak peek or purchase one for your own collection before the rush!

Nov 4, 2026 @ 1-2pm: Gallery Talk. Join PAF Judge Cory Wright for a Gallery Talk about her plein air painting experiences and what to look for as a show judge. $15 per person.

Nov 6, 2026 @ 6-8 pm: Plein Air Fairhope Exhibit/First Friday Art Walk. Official opening of artwork created during the week! Free to the public. PAF Artists/Sponsors may enjoy a VIP early bird entrance at 5:30 pm. Works will be on display thru Dec 19th.

Nov 7, 2026 @ 9-11 am: Plein Air Fairhope Quick Draw. PAF artists and the public are invited to paint at or around the Eastern Shore Art Center. All ages welcomed! Just bring your painting supplies and join us. Donations welcomed.

NEW! Nov 8, 2026 @ 10 am-4 pm: Just Plein Fun Workshop! Join Instructor Robin Popp on a fun excursion into creating work on location and learn some tricks and shortcuts to make it easier. $200 ($175  for ESAC Members).

*** Proceeds to benefit the Eastern Shore Art Center’s community outreach efforts. ***

Eastern Shore Art Center Hosts First Friday Art Walk, November 6th! Free admission. Donations welcomed. Live music inside provided by Karin and Eric Marrero.

Exhibits Opening: Members' Open Show, Plein Air Fairhope, and more...

Thank you to our Event Sponsor:

Century Bank

Indulge in a night of sophistication to benefit the Eastern Shore Art Center with:

•     Fine Wine Tastings
•     Bourbon Tastings

Immerse yourself in the stunning works of art from some of the Eastern Shore’s most talented artists along with a:

•     Silent Auction
•     Live Auction

All proceeds go to ESAC programming!

The 17th Annual Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas Concert featuring The Joe Cool Trio with special guest Jennifer Hartswick in Fairhope, Alabama!

The 17th annual Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas concert is adding a new venue in the heart of Fairhope, AL. Presented by The Fairhope Store, this exclusive show will take place at the Eastern Shore Art Center on Saturday, December 12th at 7:30 PM, expanding a beloved holiday tradition that brings families and music lovers together for an evening of joy and giving. This year’s performance features The Joe Cool Trio— John Milham (drums), Chris Spies (piano), and Chris Severin (bass)— performing Vince Guaraldi’s iconic score from A Charlie Brown Christmas. Joining the trio for this year’s special event is musician Jennifer Hartswick. Jennifer is an acclaimed vocalist and trumpet player known for her soulful voice, dynamic stage presence, and work as a founding member of the Trey Anastasio Band. She has performed or recorded with artists including Herbie Hancock, Tom Petty, and the Rolling Stones, bringing energy and heart to every performance. Also appearing on stage will be Christopher Spies and John Hart. Christopher Spies is a saxophonist whose touring and recording work includes collaborations with the Marcus King Band, Samantha Fish, and Grayson Capps. His experience spans national tours, studio recordings, and more. John Hart is a Florida-based guitarist known for blending blues, rock, and soul with intricate fingerpicking and warm, expressive playing. Frontman of the John Hart Project, he has toured the East Coast with the Sauce Boss and built a following throughout the Gulf Coast.

A portion of proceeds of the show will benefit Mobile Baykeeper. Mobile Baykeeper is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring Mobile Bay and the waters of coastal Alabama. Through advocacy, education, and hands-on conservation, the organization works to keep local waterways healthy for the people and wildlife that depend on them.

Tickets are available in advance online for $50. Attendees are encouraged to purchase early, as with limited seating, this event can sell out quickly.

The Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas has become a signature celebration of music, community, and holiday spirit. Whether you’re introducing your family to the magic of Guaraldi’s music for the first time or returning as part of your annual tradition, this concert promises a memorable experience for all.

No refunds, rain or shine indoor show.