About Us

Cape Ann Plein Air’s (CAPA) mission is to preserve and promote Cape Ann’s legacy as the birthplace of American Plein Air painting, and enhance our local economy. This is made possible through the close collaboration of committed supporters from across the region — businesses, regional arts and cultural organizations, and the Cape Ann communities of Gloucester, Rockport, Essex and Manchester-by-the Sea — working with CAPA organizers to offer a robust, weeklong program of painting competitions, exhibitions and education.