The Key West Art and Historical Society and Tennessee Williams Museum are excited to announce their annual Tennessee Williams Plein Air Painting Contest, taking place on Saturday, March 21, 2026!
This year’s theme is inspired by Williams’ iconic play, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and we are celebrating his painting style: starting and completing a work in just a few hours. Artists are encouraged to find any Key West location that inspires them and incorporate a cat on a roof in their composition.
Event Details:
- Check-in: Morning of March 21 at the Key West Museum of Art & History, where your paper or canvas will be stamped (you are required to have your own paper or canvas)
- Painting Time: Artists will have the day to create their work en plein air
- Drop-off: Completed artwork must be returned to the Museum by 3:00 PM
- Juried Exhibition & Awards: All artwork will be reviewed and judged by professional jurors from the Key West art community, ensuring a high-quality, curated selection. The exhibition, reception, and award presentation will coincide with the Tennessee Williams Birthday Party on March 26 at the Tennessee Williams Museum. Artists will also have the opportunity to sell their finished artwork at this event while retaining 100% of the sale price.
Categories and Prizes:
- Professional: 1st & 2nd place – $500 and $250
- Recreational: 1st & 2nd place – $500 and $250
- Student (free entry): 1st place prize to encourage younger artists
We encourage expressive, bold, and spontaneous work, honoring Tennessee Williams’ creative spirit. Whether your cat is perched on a tin roof, a garden shed, or a rooftop terrace, we can’t wait to see how you bring the theme to life!
- Date: March 21
- Time: 8:00am - 3:00pm
- Cost: $35.00
- Location: Painting Location Chosen by Artist
