Plein air, French for painting in the open air, demands quick, observational work in whatever conditions the week throws at an artist, and this year's roster will paint day and night throughout the competition, per that report. The week opens Monday with the main competition running through Friday, Aug. 21, and includes a Paint the Town day on Tuesday, Aug. 18, dedicating that day to artists painting scenes throughout downtown St. Charles. Wednesday brings both the community Quick Paint contest and a Plein Air Yoga in the Park session at Pottawatomie Park, also from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by an evening Artist Meet & Greet at Alter Brewing from 6 to 8 p.m., a portion of which will benefit the arts council.