MILFORD, PA — Come Paint With Me©, the free program for artists who enjoy painting in the outdoors, begins its 18th season at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 4 at Grey Towers National Historic Site. Under the direction of its founder, Joan Polishook of Hemlock Farms, artists have the opportunity to meet on Thursdays June through September at selected scenic and motivating area sites.

This season begins with a morning welcome at Grey Towers Visitors Gazebo by Polishook, members of the Grey Towers Heritage Association and U.S. Forest Service staff, and is followed by a day of painting on the grounds. Grey Towers has played host to the Come Paint With Me program since 1997.

The 2015 schedule also includes visits to the Dorflinger-Suydam Sanctuary, a historic canal house, area farms, waterfalls, garden spots, small towns and state parks, meccas for the artists who tote their materials weekly into Mother Nature’s Studio. It is an opportunity to uniquely interpret on paper, board and canvas what is seen and felt while communing with and being inspired by nature.

There is no charge to participate; there is no formal instruction. Rather, the artists have the opportunity to network with others, share a common experience and sketch or paint in nature’s garden in one’s personal selected medium and style. The noon lunch break is the perfect time to get together for a chat and sharing of ideas as well as gentle critique. You are encouraged to bring lunch as well as art materials.

The meetings are held rain or shine at some locations or cancelled due to inclement weather. If in doubt about the weather, call 570/775-6896 before 9 a.m. on the appointed day.

The program offers all artists a chance to have their work showcased at two annual exhibits and sales. In September/October, Come Paint With Me is featured at the Gallery at Chant Realtors Lords Valley, PA with a Meet-the-Artist reception on Saturday, September 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. In November/December all paintings completed at the Grey Towers site will go on display in the Pinchot Mansion for the 2015 holiday season. There will be an invitational reception for artists and their guests.