Welcome to Contra Costa Plein Air

                    

Contra Costa Plein Air is a friendly group of artists who get together to paint at scenic locations all around the Bay Area, mostly focused on Contra Costa, Alameda and Solano Counties. We paint on weekdays (usually Thursdays) on a completely random schedule inspired by the weather and members' suggestions. New artists are always welcome, open to all media and all experience levels, no fee to participate, no RSVP's required. Just show up and enjoy!

To learn about upcoming paint-outs:

• Visit this website, Contra Costa Plein Air
• Visit our Facebook group page @contracostapleinair
• Receive paint-out announcements via email by joining our contacts list. Email Nancy Roberts, nrobertsart@sbcglobal.net to be added to the list.

If you have questions feel free to email group coordinator Nancy Roberts at nrobertsart@sbcglobal.net. We look forward to painting with you sometime soon!

And here's something cool! You can order all kinds of fun and functional products sporting the Contra Costa Plein Air logo.  Click here to browse the collection.

Mystery Spot, Antioch, February 5, 2026

 

Our casual group of local artist friends will be painting at this beautiful park in the Antioch hills on Thursday, February 5, 10 am - 2 pm. If you're on our mailing list you'll receive an email with details. If you'd like to be added to the list please contact Nancy Roberts at nrobertsart@sbcglobal.net.

Martinez Shoreline, January 29, 2026

Contra Costa Plein Air Paint-Out

Thursday, January 29, 10 am - 2 pm

Martinez Shoreline

North end of N. Court Street, Martinez CA 94553

Let's go back to the beautiful Martinez shoreline! We'll be painting in the area around Ferry Point and the Martinez Marina. Park at the Ferry Point Picnic Area at the North end of North Court Street, then fan out to find your spot. It's a short walk to views of the Carquinez Strait, beaches, boats and bridges as well as the remains of the old ferry landing.

I'm attaching a map to help you find our location. Admission is free, there are restrooms in the Harbor Master's Building next to the Marina, rain cancels. I hope to see you there!

Lafayette Reservoir again, January 14, 2026

Contra Costa Plein Air Paint-Out

WEDNESDAY, January 14, 10 am - 2 pm

Lafayette Reservoir

3849 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette CA 94549

Park website: Lafayette Reservoir :: East Bay Municipal Utility District

The Rez is so gorgeous right now -- let's go back! Should be sunny but chilly so plan to wear layers. Our group usually paints at the area next to the Visitors' Center, but you may prefer to paint the views from the main parking lot area (easier getting your stuff to and from your car).

To get to the Visitors' Center drive down the narrow road at the right side of the main parking lot. Parking at the Visitors' Center is a loading zone only, so you can park briefly to drop off your gear, then park your car in the parking lot that's above the Visitors' Center.

The park entrance is at 3849 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Parking permits are required, $7 for a One Day Permit. There are permit vending machines in the parking lot, but if those are broken you can also buy a parking permit at the Visitors' Center.

I'm attaching a map to help you get oriented. Day use fee is $7, restrooms are open, rain cancels. Always a beautiful location — hope to see you there!