The Rippers invite artists and art lovers alike to an outdoor painting competition in Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale, where artists can capture the town's stunning coastal landscapes and seaside charm while raising funds for Cottage by the Sea.
En Plein Air, a French term meaning "in the open air," describes the practice of painting landscapes outdoors.
Watch artists capture the beauty and character of Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale through live outdoor painting, then explore an exhibition of the completed works at Cottage by the Sea, 29 Flinders Street, Queenscliff.
Artworks will be judged and available for purchase and auction, with proceeds supporting Cottage by the Sea's vital children's programs.
Whether you're an artist, art lover, local resident or visitor, we invite you to be part of this unique community event.
We are also delighted to encourage young artists under 18 to be part of this exciting event. Junior artists are welcome to apply by contacting us via (03) 5258 1663 or info@cottagebythesea.com.au.
Saturday is your chance to experience creativity in action as artists paint outdoors across the Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale coastline, capturing the beauty and character of the local landscape 'en plein air'.
Wander along the coastline to observe artists at work, meet the painters and gain a unique insight into the creative process as artworks take shape throughout the day.
Artists are invited to register via the button below. Spectators are warmly encouraged to explore, observe and enjoy this celebration of art, place and community before the finished works are exhibited and celebrated on Sunday.
Following Saturday's day of painting, join us at Cottage by the Sea, 29 Flinders Street, Queenscliff, on Sunday to view the finished artworks at our exhibition, cast your vote in the People's Choice Award, celebrate the winners at the award presentation and take part in the art auction.
Exhibition entry tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased online or at the door on the day.
Whether you're painting and exhibiting, bidding or simply enjoying the atmosphere, find all the information you need for the weekend here.
8:00am - 10:00am: Artist check-in at Cottage by the Sea, 29 Flinders Street, Queenscliff.
10:00am: "En Plein Air" painting time begins, signalled by the Point Lonsdale fog horn. Artists are invited to find a location along the beautiful Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale coastline.
4:00pm: "En Plein Air" painting time closes, signalled by the Point Lonsdale fog horn. All completed artworks must be delivered to the curator at Cottage by the Sea, 29 Flinders Street, Queenscliff, by 4:00pm for judging and installation in the exhibition.
10:30am: Exhibition at Cottage by the Sea, 29 Flinders Street, Queenscliff, opens to the public. View and purchase original artworks, enjoy refreshments, and cast your vote in the People's Choice Award competition (voting closes at 12:30pm).
1:00pm: Award winners announced.
1:30pm: Live auction of the top five selected artworks. Guests are invited to continue exploring the exhibition while enjoying refreshments.
3:00pm: Exhibition closes.
Support from our generous sponsors makes this event possible. If you’d like to join as a sponsor, we’d love to hear from you. Email info@cottagebythesea.com.au or call 03 5258 1663 to have a chat.








If you’re unable to attend or become a sponsor, you can still support Cottage by the Sea and The Rippers Art Prize by making a donation. Every contribution helps create meaningful opportunities for children and young people.
By submitting your artist registration, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Collection Notice.