Plein Air Painting

You might be hearing a lot about 'Plein Air Painting' lately, but what exactly does 'en plein air' mean? Simply put, it's the art of painting outdoors, directly from life, rather than in a studio. The French term translates to 'in the open air,' and it's a practice that artists have embraced for centuries to capture the ever-changing light, colors, and atmosphere of a scene. For me, it's become a weekly ritual when the weather is nice. There’s something incredibly invigorating about getting out of the studio and setting up my easel in a park or by the water. I usually pack a box lunch and make sure my outfit is comfortable and fun – sometimes I even find great second-hand pieces perfect for painting days! If you're a beginner curious about how to start, don't be intimidated! My journey began with just a pencil sketch on watercolour paper. Watercolor is a fantastic medium for plein air because it's lightweight and dries quickly, and I've been really enjoying it recently. You don't need a huge setup to get started. Here's a quick rundown of what I typically bring: Portable Easel or Sketchbook: A lightweight option is key. Sometimes I just use a regular sketchbook if I'm doing small pieces. Your Chosen Medium: Whether it's watercolors (my current favorite!), oils, pastels, or acrylics, make sure it's manageable for transport. For watercolors, I load up my watercolors with water before I leave, so I'm ready to paint. Basic Supplies: Brushes, a palette, a water container (if using water-based paints), paper towels, and a small stool or blanket to sit on. Don't forget a sun hat and sunscreen! Snacks and Water: Hydration is important, especially when you're focused. One of the best tips for plein air painting is to embrace the spontaneity. The light changes quickly, and you might not capture every detail perfectly, and that's okay! It's about capturing the essence and feeling of the moment. I often start with a quick pencil sketch to block in the main shapes and composition. Then, I dive into color, trying to work relatively fast to capture the light before it shifts too much. When I head out to the park, I always take some time to decide where I set up. Finding a spot with good light, an interesting composition, and minimal distractions makes a huge difference. The beauty of painting outside is that every outing is an adventure, and you learn something new each time. Don't worry too much about the final piece being perfect; the process itself is incredibly rewarding. Just go, set up, and make art! It's truly an experience every outdoor enthusiast should try.