ART! Wet Paint 2025 at Newport Art Museum

Wet Paint 2025 is going back to the past to reinvent the future!

Wet Paint is more than a fundraiser, it’s a tradition, a platform for connection, and a meaningful way to celebrate and support the artists who make our community vibrant. We’ve taken time to listen to our community of local artists and to the stories that have shaped this cherished annual event.

This year’s theme is Back to the Future because we are bringing back the traditions that have defined Wet Paint for thirty-two years. Please note: this theme does not have to be reflected in the work you create.

Now in its 32nd year, Wet Paint is one of Newport’s most beloved celebrations. We’ve taken time to listen to our community of local artists and to the stories that have shaped this cherished annual event. What we heard was clear: Wet Paint is more than a fundraiser-it’s a tradition, a platform for connection, and a meaningful way to celebrate and support the artists who make our community vibrant.

This summer, we’re bringing the heart of Wet Paint back in full force. The theme for 2025 is “Back to the Future”, and we’re reintroducing the spirit of plein air painting, artist demonstrations, and the exhilarating live auction that connects collectors directly with the artists who inspire them.

In the weeks leading up to the event, Newport will once again become an open-air studio, with pop-up painting events at some of the city’s most iconic locations.

On Saturday, August 9, the Museum’s campus will come alive with live art-making, demonstrations, music, food trucks, local fare, family-friendly activities, and the beloved silent auction. The day culminates in our high-energy Live Auction, celebrating fresh, original works and the creative spirit that defines Wet Paint.

We look forward to everyone – artists, collectors, and appreciators – joining us at Wet Paint 2025!

On Saturday, August 9, the Museum’s campus will come alive with an in-person silent auction, music, food trucks, local fare, and family-friendly activities. The day culminates in our high-energy live auction, celebrating original works and the creative spirit of this beloved event!

How to Wet Paint:

1. REGISTER: Visit us online at  wetpaint25.Givesmart.com to register as an ARTIST, a BIDDER, or BOTH! There is no need to register in person.

*If you are a participating artist who is mailing your artwork, please ensure that your name, phone number, email, and mailing address are clearly legible on the back or bottom of your work. You are also welcome to include a social media handle to self promote your art-making.

2. MAKE ART: This year, we are excited to once again welcome artworks of ALL MEDIUMS, SHAPES & SIZES (up to 36in x 36in x 36in)!

• en plein air: Inspired by artist-founder Helena Sturtevant’s love of painting en plein air, translating to in the open air, the Museum is planning outdoor art-making opportunities ahead of Wet Paint 2025 on Saturday, August 9th. Browse upcoming plein air activity dates under Programs!

3. DROP OFF AND GET SWAG: Drop off your artwork and receive your artist perks! Newport Art Museum staff will receive artwork during Wet Paint Week July 28 through August 4

We will install artwork throughout the Museum ahead of the event (starting on August 5th). Artists will receive their swag bag when they drop off their completed art works! All proceeds from the Wet Paint auction event go towards supporting the Museum.

*Swag only available to claim at in-person drop off.

4. COME TO THE EVENT AND BID! Come browse and bid on your favorite pieces of art as part of our in-person silent auction event! We will close out the day with a live auction of selected pieces. The Museum’s campus will be alive with artistic energy, featuring:

• Silent & Live Auctions Bid on incredible original artwork and start or grow your collection.
• Food Trucks & Local Fare A curated selection of Newport’s favorite vendors.
• Child-Friendly Art Activities Hands-on, engaging experiences for the Museum’s youngest visitors.
• Live Music & Performances Adding rhythm and movement to the artistic energy of the day.

5. COLLECT YOUR WINNINGS: You can pick up your auction winnings beginning Saturday, August 9th. Then Sunday-Sunday, August 10-16 from 11am to 4pm. (To schedule an alternative pick-up time, or to get help with registration, please email Emilia Sywolski, Manager of Programs and Audience Engagement: [email protected] .)

Thanking sponsors!

Wet Paint sponsors as of 7.18.25 :
A1 Roofing & Construction
Arnold Art Store & Gallery
BankNewport
Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant
Centreville Bank
Flo’s Clam Shack
Gardiner House
Maquette
Kimberly Pucci
Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling
Portsmouth Ace Hardware
The Red Parrot Restaurant
The Reef
Wally’s Weiners

For more information, or to contribute to the event, contact Susan Hanley at [email protected] .