En Plein Air - Painting Competition

A journey of colours and scents in the heart of Nonantola

Every year, at the beginning of May, the historic centre of Nonantola (Province of Modena, Emilia-Romagna) fills with easels, palettes, and blank canvases ready to be filled. It's the weekend of En Plein Air, the painting competition organised by the NonantolArte group of the cultural association La Clessidra, in collaboration with the Pro Loco of Nonantola and the Partecipanza Agraria, under the patronage of the Municipality. Created to rediscover the pleasure of living in open spaces, slowing down, observing, and drawing inspiration, the event has become an anticipated appointment that attracts painters from all over Italy.

Painting from life, between the village and the Partecipanza

The heart of the event is the plein air painting competition: artists arrive with canvases and supports that are stamped by the organisation, then spread out around the town to paint views, monuments, and details of the area from life. The ideal route starts from the heart of the historic centre — with the Abbey of Nonantola, a Romanesque jewel and symbol of the community — and extends to the lands of the Partecipanza Agraria, an ancient institution of centuries past with which the citizens preserve and share a common heritage. Afterwards, the works are submitted, evaluated by a jury, and awarded: past editions have seen over 40 artists from different Italian regions participate.

Not just painting: a widespread festival

Around the competition, a programme of initiatives grows each year, involving the entire town and local associations. Among the recurring proposals: the antique and vintage market in the historic centre, guided walks along the routes of the Via Romea Nonantolana, dawn yoga, a wellness area, creative workshops, an ethnic market, and numerous street food options. An opportunity to discover Nonantola in a slow and participatory way, amidst art, nature, socialising, and a connection with the territory.

An event rooted in volunteering

En Plein Air is a project born from the town's associative fabric and is included in the calendar of Modena Italian Capital of Volunteering 2026, highlighting the community and free nature of the event. More than just a painting competition, it is a day where places, people, sensitivities, and passions come together to enhance the spaces that tell the story and identity of Nonantola.