In pictures: Inaugural Cambridgeshire Plein Air Artist of the Year Award takes place at Histon Manor
The picturesque grounds of Histon Manor hosted the inaugural Cambridgeshire Plein Air Artist of the Year Award, supported by the Cambridge Independent, last Saturday (14 June) – bringing together just under 80 artists for a celebration of outdoor painting.
A mix of amateur and professional artists took part, producing an impressive range of artworks in varying styles, mediums, and subject matter – from sweeping impressionist landscapes to outdoor screen printing, all created en plein air over the course of the day.
Artists were scattered throughout the grounds and looked after by a team of volunteers, who served pastries, cakes, and drinks throughout the day.
The event culminated in an artists champagne reception on the manor’s front lawn.
At 4pm, the gates opened to an additional 150 ticket-holders arriving for an open-air concert by the Cam String Collective.
Guests had the chance to view the day’s artwork before settling on the grass to listen to the music.
A panel of five expert judges had the difficult task of selecting winners from the outstanding submissions and the awards were presented during the concert interval.
The event was also supported by several other Cambridge-based organisations, including Cheffins, Cambridge BID, Kettle’s Yard, and the Cambs Dining Company.
The winning artworks are now on display at the Modo Art Gallery at 62 Sidney Street, Cambridge, alongside its new Hockney Landscapes exhibition.
Katherine Mann, founder and organiser, said: “We’re thrilled with how this first year went – the weather was kind, the atmosphere was fantastic, and the support from the Cambridgeshire community has been just incredible.
“The standard of art was incredibly high. We’ve been bowled over by the lovely feedback from artists, many of whom are already asking when they can book for next year!
“We will look at whether it remains at Histon Manor or rotate the event to other inspiring locations across the county.
“A huge thank you to our volunteers and supporters – you were tremendous. Do pop into Modo gallery to see the winning works – they’re well worth a visit!”
The winner of the Cambridgeshire Plein Air Artist of The Year 2025, in the emerging artist category, was Kathryn Fisher, while Lyudmila Sikhosana took home the prize in the professional category.
Highly Commended were Roz Howling, Emma Louise Pratt, Ruth Beloe, Andrew Dockerill, and Moon Cheung.
The event raised £2,637 for Break from the concert and art event, bringing the Histon Manor fundraising total this year to £11,942.
