Every year for the past twelve years, artists have come to town for the Teche Plein Air competition. In 2023, we hosted my cousin Andrew Liles, an architect from New Orleans. Andrew is back this year.
A Plein Air competition is one in which artists apply, are vetted by a judge, and spend time painting outside. All of the artwork has to be created within the time frame of the competition. The last time Andrew came, it was one of his first competitions. He only goes to ones within the state of Louisiana. Some of the artists here this week just spent a previous week in Florida. For some, this is what they do. Andrew has a day job. He is a professor of architecture at Tulane University.
On Saturday evening, the first day, Andrew and I were chatting about imposter syndrome. If you are involved in any kind of creative endeavor, imposter syndrome is real. As you read this, if you are a SOLC writer, you know what I mean. You never feel like you measure up. And standards are arbitrary. Likely, your own standard is higher than anyone else observing your work.
Right after this conversation, winners of the “quick draw” were announced. Andrew won second place. I screamed like a Price is Right winner.
The judge, Charlie Hunter from Vermont, said that Andrew made power lines look beautiful. He commented that he could see the artist’s hand in them. Who among you would notice power lines?
And the week has just begun. The final art show will be Friday night at the Sliman Theatre on Main Street. If you are in town, please stop by to see the incredible work of these amazing artists. Not an imposter among them.
Reflections on the Teche 
The competition must be so interesting to attend and see the artists “in action” and to share the anticipation and excitement when winners are announced. How much more to share with your cousin! No imposter- a talented artist making power lines beautiful.
I loved learning about this competition. I have two fav lines:
I screamed like a Price is Right winner.
Not an imposter among them.
Congrats to your talented cousin!
Ditto, Sally, I so loved “I screamed like a Price is Right winner.”
Margaret, what a delightful post. I love how proud you are of your cousin. Who wouldn’t be, and yes, those power lines are beautiful. Was Andrew painting the scene out the jail window for his quick draw painting?
“Who among you would notice power lines?”
I feel like someone will rise to that challenge, in writing, this month.