Painting the Day (2025)
Painting the Day is an annual community plein air event celebrating the tradition of painting outdoors and the landscapes that inspire Hudson Valley artists. Bringing together artists of all ages and experience levels, the program creates opportunities for creative exchange, learning, and connection through a shared day of painting in the Athens Riverfront Park.
In 2025, ACC launched the inaugural Painting the Day community event in honor of beloved local artist and teaching artist Jim Cramer (above). The event’s title pays tribute to Jim’s long-running Painting the Day plein air series, a signature ACC program that brought artists together at parks, historic sites, and scenic landscapes throughout Athens and the surrounding region.
Held at Athens Riverfront Park, the event honored Jim’s lasting contributions to the regional arts community and his years of inspiring artists through ACC classes and workshops. Participants were invited to paint throughout the park in the medium of their choice, while acclaimed wildlife artist James Coe presented a live plein air painting demonstration. A children’s art station with water-based paints and drawing materials welcomed young artists, and refreshments were served during a midday gathering.
Throughout the day, friends, students, and fellow artists shared memories of Jim and reflected on the artistic guidance and encouragement he generously offered through a community memory board. The event coincided with Seasons of Greene VI, presented in partnership with Greene Land Trust. On view at the Athens Cultural Center from September 26 through October 26, 2025, the exhibition featured landscapes by regional artists, including works by Jim Cramer, extending the celebration of his life, artistic legacy, and the enduring tradition of Hudson Valley landscape painting.
Jim teaches Painting the Day, a multi-session plein air class at the Athens Riverfront Park in 2024.
