If you see a preponderance of easels and/or artists on campus and around town this week, don't be alarmed--it's all part of the city's annual plein air painting event, Plein Air Edge of the Rock. All week long, painters will be creating their artistic impressions of Beloit in the open air; their work will be entered in a juried exhibition Friday evening (June 8) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday at the Vision Center, just blocks from campus in downtown Beloit.

 What you should know:

• The artists and easels have already been spotted around campus at the President's House and Poetry Garden, but you can expect Middle College and the mounds to also get some attention too. (Eaton Chapel has also been a favorite of past participants.)
• Most artists enjoy some occasional company. Feel free to stop by, say hello, and offer some praise should you see work underway.
• In addition to campus, artists are painting downtown, at Riverside Park, and other spots along and around the Rock River.
• The art auction is the plein air event's major attraction. Last year, bidding wars broke out over several pieces, including some friendly jockeying among college colleagues for the best campus works. Be there early Friday to scope out the work. The sale and viewings will continue Saturday morning, June 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information on the event, visit the Friends of Riverfront website, or read more about the event here.