Following the huge success of our inaugural Plein Air outdoor painting competition in 2024, we are thrilled to announce its return as part of an even bigger celebration—Rococo Rocks! This exciting festival captures the exuberance and indulgence of the Rococo era, often seen as the grand finale of the Baroque movement.
Here is what’s in store:
Red Priest
Tetbury Goods Shed
Saturday 10 May
The wildly popular quartet Red Priest will launch Rococo Rocks! with their electrifying take on Baroque music — expect virtuosity, theatricality, and sheer musical joy!
Plein Air Painting Competition
Painswick Rococo Garden
Saturday 17 May
Whether you’re an artist or an admirer, don’t miss this chance to experience over 75 painters capturing the magic of the Garden.
Five cash prizes to be won, including: Overall Winner, Contemporary Landscape, Young Artist Prize (16-25), Four Highly Commended Awards
New for 2025: Winners will be invited to paint seasonally throughout the year, forming an Artist in Residence programme through 2026.
Calling Young Artists (16-18)!
We’d love to see more young talent enter this year. If you know a school or college that would like a pre-visit to the Garden for inspiration, please contact us at .
The 2024 Plein Air competition was a dream come true for overall winner Carole Conde, who sold her painting on the day to an American visitor—and has since gone on to exhibit and sell at Spencer House Gallery! Her stunning Rococo Garden series is now available as cards in our shop.
Indulgence – Summer Exhibition
Spencer House Gallery
A celebration of Rococo flamboyance, ornament, and artistic fulfilment featuring regional artists—and including the winning painting from the Plein Air competition!
