Southern Utah’s red rock country sets the stage for one of the region’s most compelling fine art events of the year as the Plein Air Painters of America (PAPA) present their 2026 National Exhibition & Sale, “Heart of America,” at the historic Maynard Dixon Home & Studio in Mt. Carmel. Opening May 15 and running through July 6, the exhibition brings together some of the nation’s top landscape painters for a rare and immersive experience.
Hosted by the Thunderbird Foundation Gallery, the show features more than 100 paintings by over 40 artists, capturing landscapes from across the United States. The collection includes both studio works and plein air pieces, painted outdoors on location, offering a dynamic range of styles rooted in observation of the natural world.
The Patron Preview takes place Friday, May 15, from 5–8 PM, followed by the Public Opening and Wet Paint Sale on Saturday, May 16, from 9 AM to 5 PM. At 12 PM, freshly completed “wet paintings” created during the week will be unveiled and made available for purchase, a highlight for collectors and art lovers alike.
Nearly 30 Signature Members of PAPA are expected to attend opening weekend. Membership in the organization is invitation-only and limited to approximately 50 accomplished artists nationwide, making this a unique opportunity to meet and engage with painters working at the highest level. “We’re so excited to have over 30 of America’s finest painters coming to Mt. Carmel this year,” said gallery owner Susan Bingham.
A Historic Setting for Living Art
The Maynard Dixon Home & Studio provides an ideal backdrop. Preserved by the Thunderbird Foundation, the site reflects the legacy of one of the American West’s most iconic artists while continuing to inspire contemporary work in the same landscape that shaped Dixon’s vision.
For those looking to deepen their experience, four PAPA Master Instructors will lead a workshop through the Scottsdale Artists’ School beginning Monday, May 19. The workshop is open to artists of all skill levels.
For more information and tickets to the Patron Preview, visit thunderbirdfoundation.com. The Thunderbird Foundation Gallery and the Maynard Dixon Home & Studio are located at 2200 S. State St. (Hwy 89), Mt. Carmel.
