Nestled in the heart of raw umber and burnt sienna layers of sandstone in the Grand Staircase Escalante Monument lies the rural community of Escalante, Utah, home of the premiere Escalante Canyons Art Festival. ECAF got its start in 2003 as a suggestion from a friend vacationing at Lake Powell, Steve Roberts, assisted by Harriet Priska who laid the first layer as a foundation for future artists and vendors to enjoy this rich and diverse landscape.

Steve and Harriet observed other art festivals, then organized and recruited. In 2003, 20 artists participated. To kick off the event, family members of Everett Reuss, an iconic artist who was highlighted during the first layering years of the festival, attended.

Over the years, each new colorful layer has included the addition of local youth artists, increased plein air competitions, broadened displays, more venues for workshops and lectures in neighboring communities, and highlighted local artists as well as an artist in residence. This year will celebrate all that and more.

Plein air (or open air) and studio competitions, art exhibits, on-site sales, workshops, demonstrations, an arts and crafts fair, live music, and guided walks will all be available September 20-29, 2024.

Standard registration for plein air and studio plus five optional competitions run from July 1 to September 3. Additional information, including where to register and details for attendees, can be found at escalantecanyonsartfestival.org.

Come celebrate 20 years of art with us and add your own rich experience to this new layer of ‘Art Inspired by Place.’