The Cabildo of La Palma, in collaboration with the CajaCanarias Foundation, is organising the Francisco Concepción Rapid Painting Competition on Saturday, 14 November. The event, which is open to artists of any nationality aged 18 and over, features a total prize pool of €5,000.
Miriam Perestelo, the island's Councillor for Culture and Cultural Heritage, highlighted that the competition is part of the Creamos La Palma initiative, which aims to bring together artists from various backgrounds to celebrate the representation of the island and honour the legacy of local painter Francisco Concepción.
About the competition
The competition pays tribute to Francisco Concepción (1929-2006) and aims to promote plein air painting inspired by the landscapes, heritage, and people of La Palma. Participants can use any painting style and technique, provided their work relates to La Palma's landscapes, heritage, or inhabitants. All artworks must be created outdoors during the competition day.
How to participate
Interested artists do not need to register in advance. They must arrive between 8:00 and 10:00 on 14 November at one of two designated stamping locations: the Casa Principal de Salazar in Santa Cruz de La Palma or the Museo Arqueológico Benahoarita in Los Llanos de Aridane. At this time, they will complete a form with their personal details and artwork identification. The canvases must measure between 54 and 116 centimetres on each side, and each artist may submit only one piece. Participants must bring all necessary painting materials, including an easel for later exhibition, and must inform the organisers of their working location during the day.
Submission and prizes
Completed paintings must be submitted between 17:00 and 19:00 on the same day at the Casa Salazar in Santa Cruz de La Palma. Participants will need to present their ID or an equivalent document to verify their identity. The jury, consisting of representatives from the artistic community, the CajaCanarias Foundation, and Francisco Concepción's family, will announce the results before 21:00 at the Casa Salazar.
The competition offers a first prize of €2,000, a second prize of €1,500, and a third prize of €500. Additionally, five honourable mentions of €200 each will be awarded, all accompanied by a diploma. Winning artworks will become the property of the Cabildo of La Palma. The jury may also select up to 20 non-winning paintings for an itinerant exhibition to be held before the end of the year.
Complete competition rules can be found on the Cabildo de La Palma's notice board and electronic headquarters.
