Carmel on Canvas

Carmel on Canvas 2025 is an open-air plein air painting exhibition and competition held over two days, September 12 and 13, 2025, in Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana. The event atmosphere is vibrant and creative, embracing the scenic Carmel Arts & Design District, Midtown, City Center, and Central Park, which offers expansive green spaces and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks ideal for outdoor art activities. It is designed to attract artists and art lovers, fostering community engagement with visual arts in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

The event features:

• Painting competition: Around 60 acclaimed artists gather from across the Midwest to paint outdoors in several divisions—Professional, Non-professional, Teen, and Child—showcasing their skills in plein air painting.
• Locations: Artists paint and exhibit their work in multiple areas including the Carmel Arts & Design District, Midtown, Carmel City Center, and the 161-acre Carmel Central Park, providing a scenic backdrop and an artistic vibe.
• Registration and logistics: Registration and canvas stamping occur in the morning at the Indiana Design Center, followed by painting sessions during the day. Artwork must be submitted between 4–5 pm for judging.
• Judging and awards: There is a public reception for viewing the artworks, followed by an awards ceremony where artists are recognized for their work, with over $13,000 in total prizes including purchase awards.
• Creative Kids Zone: Activities for children are included, promoting family involvement and art education.
• Accessibility: The event is handicapped accessible, making it inclusive.

Typical schedule overview:

• Day 1 (Friday)
  8 a.m.–12 p.m.: Registration and canvas stamping at Indiana Design Center
  Painting throughout the day in designated areas
  4–5 p.m.: Artwork submission at judging tent, Carmel Midtown
  5 p.m.: Plein Air reception and public viewing
  6 p.m.: Judging begins
  6:30 p.m.: Award ceremony
  8 p.m.: Event tents close, paintings must be picked up

• Day 2 (Saturday)
  12 p.m.–3 p.m.: Creative Kids Zone activities and continued art fair around Carmel Arts & Design District and parks

The event encourages participation from a wide range of artists, and day-of registrations are accepted. There is a strong community feel with family-friendly activities, and the integration of various Carmel districts enhances the overall artistic and cultural environment, making the event a centerpiece for the city's arts calendar.

History and founding: Carmel on Canvas has been held annually and has grown to include multiple Carmel locations over the years, becoming a staple plein air event that showcases the region's scenic locales and vibrant arts community. It was established to support artists and foster community engagement with fine arts through outdoor painting competitions and exhibitions which highlight Carmel’s dedication to cultural enrichment.

The event is organized by The City of Carmel and supported by Carmel Arts & Design District, emphasizing local cultural involvement and tourism. It complements other art-focused activities in Carmel, enhancing its reputation as an arts destination in the Midwest.