Painting of the Week: “Aegis”

Congratulations to John Darley, whose work has been recognized in the monthly PleinAir® Salon.

His oil painting, “Aegis,” earned him the award for “Best Artist Under 40” in the May 2024 competition.

About the Artist:

I’ve studied and worked full time as a portrait/figure painter since 2012.

I am inspired by the dedication of Michelangelo, the sentimental beauty of Bouguereau, the palette & imagination of the Pre-Raphaelites, and the richness of the land & people of the American West. I believe that art – both creating and viewing – makes us recognize what is important to us. I am incredibly grateful for the privilege of dedicating my professional life to the pursuit of making beautiful art.

I live in American Fork, Utah with my wife Cassandra and our four sons.

About the PleinAir Salon:

In the spirit of the French Salon created by the Academie des Beaux-Arts in Paris, this annual online art competition, with 11 monthly cycles, leading to the annual Salon Grand Prize winners, is designed to stimulate artistic growth through competition. The competition rewards artists with $50,000 in cash prizes and exposure of their work, with the winning painting featured on the cover of PleinAir® Magazine.

Winners in each monthly competition may receive recognition and exposure through PleinAir Magazine’s print magazine, e-newsletters, websites, and social media. Winners of each competition will also be entered into the annual competition. The Annual Awards will be presented live at the next Plein Air Convention & Expo.

The next round of the PleinAir Salon has begun so hurry, as this competition ends on the last day of the month. Enter your best art in the PleinAir Salon here.

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