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Lake Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2026

Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

Lake Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2026

Have you ever wondered what the cottages, hotels, and lakeside landmarks around Lake Wawasee looked like decades ago, or what became of many of the buildings that once lined its shoreline? The Lake Wawasee historical cruise offers a relaxing and fascinating way to explore the people, places, and stories that helped shape one of Indiana’s most beloved lakes.

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum are once again teaming up to bring Lake Wawasee’s rich past to life. Guests will cruise the lake while following along in a specially prepared booklet filled with historic photographs as local historian Ann Garceau shares fascinating stories behind many of the structures, landmarks, and memorable places that have shaped the lake’s history.

Explore Lake Wawasee’s Past

One of Chautauqua-Wawasee’s most popular annual programs, this two-hour cruise offers a unique glimpse into Lake Wawasee’s past.

Along the way, you’ll learn about historic hotels, memorable events, prominent property owners, restaurants, entertainment venues, marinas, and little-known facts that even longtime residents may not know.

Snack food will be provided, and a cash bar will be available throughout the cruise.

Cruise Details

Saturday, September 26, 2026
1:00–3:00 p.m.
Boarding begins at 12:45 p.m.

The Frog Tavern
1116 South Harkless Drive
Syracuse, Indiana

Tickets are $25 per person and must be purchased online in advance, HERE.

More Information

For more information, contact Chautauqua-Wawasee at 574-377-7543.

About Chautauqua-Wawasee

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives through quality programming centered on the four pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation, helping make Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

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Executive Director Qualifications

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Executive Director Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Experience being a volunteer
  • Minimum of five years of residency in the Syracuse/Wawasee area
  • Minimum of five years active in Syracuse/Wawasee community organizations
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Willing to make a 3-year commitment
  • MS Office software skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or similar

Preferred Qualifications

  • Financial management skills – work with the Finance and Development Teams to develop, monitor and manage the annual budget.
  • Possesses a coaching leadership style; team player who is willing to be involved in the work of the organization
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, build and leverage teamwork within Chautauqua-Wawasee, and partnerships with like-minded community organizations
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Total Rewards

  • Exceptional work/life culture
  • Part-time position initially
  • Estimated average of 15 hours a week for the first 12 months; some weeks more, some less
  • Flexibility, with an office available but not required, and a remote work option
  • Chautauqua-Wawasee provides a personal computer, software and phone
  • Learning and development
  • Autonomy and growth

The Executive Director reports to the President of Chautauqua-Wawasee.

Interested in learning more about this position? Contact Judy Pursley at judemimi@comcast.net or Mark Knecht at mknecht@chqw.org.

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Chautauqua-Wawasee | Seeking an Executive Director

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Executive Director

Important Requirements and Job Description

Chautauqua-Wawasee Organization

Founded in 2014, the Chautauqua-Wawasee organization operates as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation.

Our mission is to provide life-enriching experiences with the goal of making Syracuse and the region a great place to visit, live, work and raise a family. The organization is governed by a 10-member Board of Directors, which provides leadership and strategic direction while accomplishing its work through a system of operating committees, including Development, Finance, Marketing, Governance and Program.

Marketing does the promotion and marketing for all programs and of the organization.

The Executive Director serves as the organization’s chief impact officer, translating the mission into measurable results while overseeing daily operations, staff and volunteers. The Executive Director must balance financial sustainability with mission-driven goals, ensuring programs are effective and resources are well-managed.

Along with the President, he/she is the public face of the organization, representing it to donors, community partners and the media. The position will start as a part-time requirement and grow to full-time over a 2- to 3-year period. The Executive Director will report to the Board President, who will establish specific objectives to assess performance.

Chautauqua-Wawasee is seeking a person who will:

  1. Start as a part-time paid contributor and grow into the full-time strategic leader of the organization.
  2. Grow the organization to the next level via fundraising, volunteers and programs, with fundraising as the initial priority.
  3. Be supported by the Board of Directors and five operating committees/teams who are responsible for Marketing, Programs, Governance, Financial Management and Development.

Required Criteria

  • The Executive Director must reside/be local to Syracuse nine months of the year.
  • The Executive Director must know the Syracuse and Wawasee community.
  • Many in the community should know the Executive Director.
  • The Executive Director should have a passion for community service.
  • The Executive Director must be willing to make a minimum 2- to 3-year commitment.
  • The Executive Director must be capable of fundraising from individuals, businesses and grant sources.
  • The Executive Director must fit the Chautauqua-Wawasee culture: caring, collaborative, team-driven, appreciative and welcoming of others.
  • The Executive Director must understand and appreciate Chautauqua-Wawasee’s mission and goals.
  • Experience as a volunteer, ideally with a nonprofit organization.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS.

Interested in learning more about this position? Contact Judy Pursley at judemimi@comcast.net or Mark Knecht at mknecht@chqw.org.

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Fort Wayne Philharmonic Patriotic Pops Concert Set for July 3, 2026

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Fort Wayne Philharmonic Patriotic Pops Concert Set for July 3, 2026

Chautauqua-Wawasee is pleased to help share information about the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Patriotic Pops Concert, returning to Oakwood Resort on Friday, July 3, 2026.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on the grounds of Oakwood Resort, located at 702 E. Lake View Road in Syracuse, Indiana. After a day on the lake, guests are invited to arrive by car or boat, relax, and enjoy an inspiring evening of music celebrating America’s spirit of freedom and adventure.

Guests planning to sit on the lawn are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets.

Family Fun Before the Patriotic Pops Concert

Beginning at 7 p.m., children and families can enjoy free pre-concert activities, including a face painter and balloon artist.

Children of all ages are also invited to stop by the Chautauqua-Wawasee tent for:

  • Free patriotic glow necklaces
  • Small American flags to wave during the concert
  • A copy of the evening’s music program

Patriotic Pops Concert Program Highlights

The Fort Wayne Philharmonic, led by Conductor Caleb Young, will perform a selection of popular and well-loved orchestral music. Featured selections include:

  • The Star-Spangled Banner
  • Armed Forces on Parade, honoring veterans
  • Suite from Independence Day
  • Harry’s Wonderful World
  • Traditional American marches and patriotic songs

Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme Raffle

As part of the evening’s festivities, concertgoers may purchase a $5 raffle ticket for a chance to win a $100 gift card from Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme.

The winner will be announced at the conclusion of the concert. Guests are encouraged to bring a few $5 bills and try their luck for a sweet prize.

Thank You to the Sponsors

The Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Patriotic Pops Concert is generously sponsored by regional and local donors, including:

  • Steel Dynamics
  • Judy Pursley
  • The Weigand Family
  • Kay and James Young
  • Omer and Susan Kropf
  • Floyd and Betty Lou Lancia
  • Wawasee Property Owners Association
  • Marie Zacher Warshauer
  • Chautauqua Wawasee (Oakwood Foundation)
  • Kenneth and Lela Harkless Foundation
  • Gregory and Susanne Hoffman
  • Fred and Cindy Rasp
  • Janellyn and Glenn Borden
  • Donn and Linda Baird
  • Tim and Vicki Fiechter

Rain Location

In the event of rain, the Patriotic Pops Concert will be held inside the Oakwood Resort Event Center, located just up the hill from the Oakwood Resort.

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Pour Paint Workshop in Syracuse, Indiana | Chautauqua-Wawasee

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Paint Pour Workshop

Let the Colors Flow

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse Parks Department invite you to explore the colorful art of pour paint during this relaxing, beginner-friendly workshop at the Syracuse Community Center.

Also known as fluid art, pour paint is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to create abstract art. No experience is required. Using liquid acrylic paints, you’ll let color, movement, and creativity do the work for you.

This is also a wonderful program to enjoy with your kids.

Event Details

Dates: Tuesday, July 28, and Thursday, July 30
Time: 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Syracuse Community Center
Cost: $40 per adult, $10 per supervised child, limit 3
Class Size: Limited to 15 participants
Supplies: All supplies and tools are included

About the Pour Paint Workshop

In this hands-on workshop, participants will create their own abstract painting on a 10 x 10 canvas using one of three pour paint techniques.

Examples will be provided, and each participant can choose the method that inspires them most. A wide variety of pre-mixed colors will be available to explore.

Frames will also be available for purchase once the canvases have dried during the second session.

What to Expect

On the first day, instructor Ann Szeplaki will demonstrate each technique and guide participants as they begin their paintings.

Because the canvases must remain undisturbed while drying, participants will return on the second day to see how their artwork has evolved. The group will also discuss the results together and learn more about the unique effects created through fluid art.

Ann will also provide her paint-mixing recipes for those who wish to continue exploring this creative medium at home.

Pour Paint Techniques

Dirty Pour or Flip Cup

The Dirty Pour, also called the Flip Cup technique, begins by layering multiple colors into a cup. The paint is then poured onto the canvas, creating beautiful and unpredictable patterns as the colors blend together.

Dutch Pour

The Dutch Pour involves pouring colors separately and then using airflow or tools, such as skewers, to guide the paint. This technique creates soft, flowing, feathered designs.

Ring Pour

The Ring Pour begins with layers of paint in a cup. The paint is then poured in a continuous circular motion. As the canvas is tilted, the rings expand into striking patterns.

A Relaxing Summer Art Experience

Join us for a creative summer evening where you can slow down, play with color, and discover something uniquely your own.

Whether you are new to painting or simply looking for a fun and relaxing art experience, the Pour Paint Workshop offers a welcoming way to explore fluid art.

Space is limited to 15 participants, so early registration is encouraged.

Register Here

About the Artist

Ann Szeplaki

Ann Szeplaki has spent much of her life on Lake Wawasee and works in both oils and acrylics. She began painting in 2013 and discovered pour paint last summer, quickly falling in love with the style and technique.

Inspired by the process itself, Ann enjoys the endless variety each piece brings. Even when using the same colors, each painting can produce a completely different result.

She describes pour paint as “grown-up finger painting.” Color is her greatest passion.

Ann will be featured at the 12th Annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival on Saturday, May 23. Stop by her booth to see her work, ask questions, and take home a piece of her art.

For more information and to view her work, click HERE.

Supporting the Arts in Our Community

This workshop is made possible in part by Regional Art Partner, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, and the Indiana Arts Commission, with support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

2026 Pour Paint Workshop Sponsors
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Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2026 | Syracuse Indiana Art Festival

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2026 Returns to Oakwood Resort

Experience Art, Music, and Family Fun on the Shores of Lake Wawasee

Mark your calendar for one of the most anticipated early summer events in northern Indiana-the 12th Annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival returns on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the beautiful Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana.

Hosted by Chautauqua-Wawasee, this free, family-friendly festival brings together art lovers, families, and visitors for a full day of creativity, entertainment, and lakeside charm.

Discover Juried Fine Art from Talented Artists

Explore a curated collection of fine art from more than 30 artists, featuring a wide range of mediums, including:

  • Pottery
  • Watercolor and oil paintings
  • Jewelry
  • Wood, glass, and metal art
  • Nature-inspired and lake-themed pieces

Each artist has been carefully juried to ensure a high-quality fine arts experience. Whether you’re a collector or simply browsing, you’ll find unique, one-of-a-kind artwork that captures the spirit of Lake Wawasee.

Live Plein Air Painting at Lake Wawasee

A highlight of the festival is the returning Plein Air “Paint Out,” hosted by the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association.

Watch artists paint outdoors in real time as they capture the beauty of the Syracuse and Lake Wawasee area. These original works will be available for purchase following the event, with awards presented shortly after 4 p.m in the Northern Indiana Plein Air Association Tent.

Family-Friendly Activities and Kids Art Station

Bring the whole family! The Wawasee Fine Arts Festival offers hands-on activities for children, including a popular kids’ art station where young creatives can explore and express their imagination.

This outdoor festival is designed for all ages, making it a perfect way to spend a spring day together.

Food, Music, and Lakeside Relaxation

Enjoy a variety of local food truck vendors offering delicious options throughout the day, or relax with a meal at Oakwood’s Pier & Back Porch Restaurant overlooking the lake.

Live entertainment will enhance the festival atmosphere with performances by:

  • Garry Jones Music
  • Michelle Fife on dulcimer

Plan Your Visit

The festival takes place outdoors (rain or shine) in a scenic lakefront park setting.

  • Free admission and parking
  • Golf cart shuttle service available from the parking area
  • Easy access for families and visitors

About Chautauqua-Wawasee

The Wawasee Fine Arts Festival is presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives through the pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation.

Event Details

  • Event: Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood
  • Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
  • Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Location: Oakwood Resort, Syracuse, Indiana
  • Cost: Free

Learn More

Visit www.chautauquawawasee.org or follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook for updates and event details.

For questions:
info@chautauquawawasee.org
574-377-7543

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2026 Plein Air Programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

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Experience Art in the Open Air: 2026 Plein Air Programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Art comes alive outdoors this spring and summer as Chautauqua-Wawasee presents plein air painting in Wawasee, inviting the community to experience the beauty of Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee through the eyes of talented regional artists. From personalized paintings of beloved lake homes to live painting demonstrations, immersive workshops, and relaxed weekly gatherings, the 2026 Plein Air programs offer multiple ways to connect with art, nature, and creativity.

Own a Personalized Painting of Your Lake Home or Favorite Syracuse Scene

Have you ever wanted a painting of your cottage, favorite shoreline view, or a meaningful location around Syracuse Lake or Lake Wawasee?

The Third Annual Plein Air Paint Out, taking place Friday and Saturday, May 22–23, 2026, offers a special opportunity to commission an original work of art through a purchase award.

Visiting artists from Northern Indiana and throughout the Midwest will paint iconic scenes surrounding the lakes. When you see artists working outdoors, you are invited to stop, observe, and talk with them about their creative process.

Personalized paintings make meaningful keepsakes and thoughtful gifts for family and friends who treasure time at the lake.

For more information or to inquire about commissioning a painting, click HERE.

Chautauqua-Wawasee Plein Air Paint Out

Friday and Saturday, May 22–23, 2026
Time: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: $30–$40

Artists will begin painting on the morning of Friday, May 22, choosing scenes that inspire them throughout Syracuse and Wawasee.

  • Friday Evening:
    Paintings will be displayed at the Wawasee Fine Art Gallery in Syracuse
    Artwork available for purchase beginning at 6 PM
  • Saturday:
    Artists continue painting during the Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Park (9 AM–4 PM)
    Completed works available for purchase at the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association booth

Judging and Awards:
Merit awards will be presented at 4:30 PM at the NIPAA booth.

Register to participate HERE.

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Plein Air Workshop with Fred Doloresco

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association present a three-day immersive workshop led by nationally recognized artist Fred Doloresco.

Designed for intermediate to advanced landscape painters, this workshop includes:

  • Live painting demonstrations
  • Individual instruction
  • Group critique
  • Outdoor painting sessions in scenic lake settings

Participants will strengthen skills in composition, color, light, and atmosphere in a supportive and inspiring environment.

About Fred Doloresco

 Fred Doloresco black and white photo

 Doloresco is a Midwestern-based landscape artist known for his expressive use of light and color. He studied at St. Louis University and has trained with renowned artists including Don Stone,   Daniel Gerhartz, and Rose Frantzen.

 He is a:

  • Signature Member of Oil Painters of America
  • Master Signature Member of the American Impressionist Society
  • Master Signature Member of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society

His work has appeared in national exhibitions and earned multiple Best of Show honors.

Tuesday–Thursday, May 26–28, 2026
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Location: Wawasee Fine Art Gallery, South Shore Social
10601 IN-13, Syracuse, IN 46567

Fee: $300

Register for the Fred Doloresco workshop HERE.

Wednesday Night Plein Air Gatherings with Dave Broerman

Wednesdays | 5–8 PM
Dates: June 3, 10, 17, 24 and July 8, 15, 22, 29

Meeting Location:
Wawasee Fine Art Gallery
10601 IN-13, Syracuse, IN 46567

Cost: Free

Artists of all experience levels are invited to enjoy relaxed summer evenings painting outdoors in the beauty of the Wawasee area.

  • Meet at 5 PM at the gallery
  • Travel together to the evening’s painting location
  • Guidance provided by local plein air artist Dave Broerman
  • Limited equipment available to borrow

No registration required. Just show up, paint, and enjoy the experience.

Supporting the Arts in Our Community

All Plein Air Programs are made possible in part by Regional Art Partner the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Indiana Arts Commission, with support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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SS Lillypad II on Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Indiana
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Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 16, 2026

Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 16, 2026

Step back in time while enjoying the beauty of Indiana’s largest natural lake. The Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise returns for 2026. This two hour experience takes place aboard the SS Lillypad II and offers a relaxing afternoon on the water.

This event is presented by Chautauqua Wawasee in partnership with the Syracuse Wawasee Historical Society. Together, they bring local history to life in a way that is easy to follow and enjoyable for all.

Local historian Ann Garceau will guide the cruise and share stories from Lake Wawasee’s past. As you travel along the shoreline, you will hear about historic hotels, memorable events, and former gathering places. You will also learn about hidden gems that once shaped the area.

Guests can follow along using a map provided during the cruise. This makes it easy to connect each story to the locations around the lake.

Tickets

Cost: $25.00 (Plus $3.52 Eventbrite Fee)
Purchase: Tickets must be purchased online, HERE.

This event sells out quickly. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Boarding: Begins at 12:45 PM
Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 S Harkless Drive, Syracuse, IN

What to Expect

  • A narrated tour of historic and lesser known spots around Lake Wawasee
  • Stories about past events, property owners, boat taxis, and restaurants
  • Light snacks provided onboard
  • A cash bar available for refreshments
  • A relaxing and educational afternoon on the lake

Questions

Phone: 574-377-7543
Email: info@chautauquawawasee.org

Chautauqua Wawasee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to offering quality programming centered on Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation. Its mission is to enhance life in Syracuse and the surrounding region.

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Taps Across the Water Wawasee | Memorial Day

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Taps Across the Water

Echoes of Taps to Sound Across the Lakes on Memorial Day Weekend

By Karen Kroemer, Chautauqua Wawasee

Honoring a Tradition Rooted in History

Taps originated during the Civil War, when Memorial Day was first known as Decoration Day.

In 1971, Memorial Day became a federal holiday honoring service members across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who died while serving our country.

A Moving Tribute Across the Lakes

The sixth annual Taps Across the Water Wawasee will be held Sunday, May 24, offering a moving Memorial Day tribute across the lakes. Trumpet players will be positioned around area lakes to perform an Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps. The buglers play Taps twice, with the music carrying across the water for nearly four minutes from shore to shore.

Listeners are encouraged to note the final sustained note, symbolizing the last breath of a service member. The event offers a solemn opportunity to reflect and honor those who gave their lives for our freedom.

Musicians United in Service and Sound

Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator who resides in Indianapolis and North Webster, has assembled more than 40 buglers and trumpet players for two programs, one in North Webster and one in Syracuse. Musicians include veterans, community band members, high school students, music directors, and professional musicians.

The program is inspired by Jari Villanueva, who retired after 23 years with the USAF Band in Washington, D.C., and founded Taps Across America in 2015. One of Murdock’s goals is to raise awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“As educators, it is our responsibility to instill in our students, especially those in high school bands, a sense of obligation to our communities. They may not fully realize the services they provide, whether it’s boosting school spirit at athletic events or fostering community spirit by participating in festivals. Taps Across the Water gives the students an opportunity to promote this experience personally with the intent of continuing community service after graduation.”

-Dr. Matt Murdock

North Webster Program Details

In North Webster, a memorial service will begin at 6:15 p.m. at Lake Webster Town Park.

  • Musicians will depart by pontoon to designated locations and perform Taps from piers at 6:30 p.m.
  • A trumpet ensemble concert of patriotic music will follow at 7 p.m. at the park

Many performers will then travel to Syracuse for the Wawasee, Syracuse, and Papakeechie lakes program.

Taps Across the Water Wawasee: Syracuse Program Details

In Syracuse, more than 40 trumpet players will continue the tribute on Lakes Wawasee, Syracuse, and Papakeechie.

  • A trumpet ensemble concert will be held from 8:10 to 8:30 p.m. at the gazebo at Oakwood Resort
  • Musicians will then move to designated locations around the three lakes to perform Taps following a one-minute silence beginning at 9:08 p.m.

Syracuse lakefront restaurants will provide information about the event to patrons. Last year, many diners stepped outside to listen reverently.

What to Know Before You Go

Please be aware of how the wind affects sound over the lake. We’ve had some years where it is hard to hear Taps because of the wind, which can make it difficult to hear.

Please see the following maps for bugler locations.

Lake Webster-Taps Across the Water

Lake Wawasee- Taps Across the Water

Where to Listen

Those who do not live on the lakes may gather in front of the Oakwood Resort, at the bridge by the Channel Marker, or at the Lake Wawasee boat launch to hear Taps.

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Plein Air Workshop IN | Fred Doloresco

Plein Air Painting Workshop with Fred Doloresco

Chautauqua-Wawasee

An Immersive Outdoor Painting Experience

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association invite you to a three-day immersive plein air painting workshop led by acclaimed artist Fred Doloresco.

Designed for intermediate to advanced landscape painters, this workshop offers the opportunity to refine your skills through live demonstrations, individualized instruction, and group critique in a supportive and inspiring outdoor environment.

Participants will gather at the Wawasee Fine Art Gallery before heading out to carefully selected painting locations around Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, Indiana.

"Her Cignets" by Fred Doloresco

What Is Plein Air Painting?

Plein air painting, meaning “in the open air,” is the practice of creating art outdoors, directly from observation. Popularized in the 19th century by artists like Claude Monet, this approach focuses on capturing natural light, color, and atmosphere as they change in real time.

Today, plein air painting continues that tradition, challenging artists to respond quickly, observe deeply, and connect more directly with the landscape.

What You’ll Experience

Throughout the workshop, participants will:

  • Watch live painting demonstrations each morning
  • Receive one-on-one instruction and feedback
  • Paint on location in scenic lakeside settings
  • Participate in daily group critiques
  • Strengthen skills in composition, color harmony, and light

Daily Workshop Format

Each day follows a structured yet relaxed schedule, balancing instruction with dedicated painting time:

9:00 AM – Instructor Demonstration
Fred begins each morning with a 60 to 90 minute plein air demonstration, focusing on composition, color harmony, light, and effective outdoor painting strategies.

10:30 AM to 3:00 PM – Open Painting and Individual Instruction
Participants paint independently on location while Fred circulates throughout the day, offering personalized guidance and support.

12:00 PM – Lunch Provided

4:00 PM – Group Critique
Each day concludes with a group critique, providing thoughtful feedback and shared learning.

Location

The workshop begins each day at the Wawasee Fine Arts Gallery at South Shore Social, then moves to outdoor painting locations around Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, Indiana.

A designated space will be arranged daily for group critique and discussion.

Materials and Equipment

  • Artists are responsible for bringing their own paints and supplies
  • A limited number of plein air easels will be available on loan
  • A workshop handout will be provided to all participants
  • A “just show up” option with materials is available for an additional fee

 

Fred Doloresco black and white photo

Meet the Artist: Fred Doloresco

Fred Doloresco is an Indiana-based landscape and plein air painter known for his expressive use of light, color, and atmosphere.

A graduate of St. Louis University, he studied with Don Stone, Daniel Gerhartz, and Rose Frantzen. Fred is a signature member of Oil Painters of America and a Master Signature member of the American Impressionist Society and the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society. His work has been featured in national and regional exhibitions, and he has received multiple Best of Show awards, including honors from Indiana Heritage Arts, the Hoosier Salon Annual Exhibition, and the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society.

Who Should Attend

This workshop is intended for intermediate to advanced artists who are ready to deepen their plein air practice and grow through hands-on experience and expert guidance.

Workshop Details

Dates: May 26–28
 Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily
 Location: Wawasee Fine Arts Gallery, South Shore Social, Syracuse, Indiana (with outdoor sessions around Lake Wawasee)
 Cost: $300

Limited spots available.

👉 Register HERE

Supporting the Arts

This workshop is made possible in part by Regional Art Partner the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Indiana Arts Commission_Community Foundation of St. Joseph County logos

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