The Art Alliance of Idyllwild held its annual Plein Air Art Festival this weekend. On Friday, a panel discussed methods; Saturday, artists from all over painted local scenes; and Sunday, June 9, awards were announced. Here artist Rich Stergulz demonstrates painting techniques. Photos by Barbara Reese

Jimmy Wisnowski of Hollywood found an inspirational spot to paint near Strawberry Creek below the playground.

Elaine Matthews of Palm Springs, paints at the Idyllwild Community Center site.

Garner Valley resident Millie Shaw finds her inspiration as she paints in an area below the playground during the Plein Air Festival Saturday morning.

Fariad (above at far left) won first place and the Artist’s Choice awards during the Art Alliance’s Plein Air awards reception Sunday morning.

Toni Williams (left) who won the People’s Choice award for her Plein Air painting, is joined by gallery owner Mike Ahern at the awards ceremony Sunday morning at the Living Room Gallery.