Are you a supporter of local art? If so, this is the perfect week for you with the announcement of the 2^nd Annual Painting the Region event. North Florida Land Trust and Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville have partnered for a six-day juried art event and a week filled with art-related activities.

This year’s event will showcase more than 30 artists capturing on canvas the natural and historic areas of downtown Jacksonville along with the ­historic neighborhoods of Springfield and Riverside. The event includes a six-day juried event for landscape artists and art patrons to support land preservation efforts by North Florida Land Trust and free art activities for the public 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Here’s an overview of the many art-filled activities to explore.

 Throughout the week

• Walk, talk and watch artists as they paint our beautiful city throughout downtown. You can purchase an original piece for your home directly from the artists or from the NFLT Gallery located inside The Jacksonville Landing.

Wednesday, October 6 – Downtown Art Walk

• A reception will be held Wednesday evening inside the NFLT Gallery at The Jacksonville Landing during the monthly Art Walk. Stop by and visit in-person with the participating artists.

 Friday, Oct. 8 – Evening Quick Paint

• Local art lovers are invited to compete with the artists at the  Quick Paint competition, a separate one-hour competition open to anyone 13 years and older. The event requires a $12 entry fee and will be judged on the spot with the top three artists splitting half of the total entry fees. Winners will be awarded and judged by the audience.  Additional prizes will be awarded and the evening will continue with artwork for sale in the NFLT Gallery and ending with a happy hour at The Jacksonville Landing. Click here to download the form.

 Saturday, Oct. – Dealing For Green Monte Carlo Night

• Join the North Florida Land Trust at its gallery located in The Jacksonville Landing for a Monte Carlo Night to celebrate the artists involved in this year’s Painting the Region. Enjoy live music and casino games including blackjack, roulette and more. The event calls for cocktail attire and features a full bar, hors d’oeuvres and special live auction. Paintings from week-long Painting the Region event will be available for sale. Be the first to view the entire collection created by more than 40 local and national artists. For ticket information and sales contact [email protected] or purchase online at www.paintingtheregion.com.

Saturday, Oct. 9 and Sunday, Oct. 10 – Weekend Environmental Family Festival

• Join area businesses and non-profits as they host two full days of family-oriented demonstrations for green businesses, artists and environmental organization. The event will be held outdoors at The Jacksonville Landing while live musical entertainment is provided on the center stage.

Sounds like a fun-filled week for art lovers in Jacksonville! Don’t forget to get downtown and be part of the amazing line-up of events.