A popular activity for artists during the months of good weather is to paint en plein air (French for “in the open air”). My experience and kit for plein air painting are both minimal. But when our art club organized this as a four-hour activity on the property of one of our members yesterday, I decided to give it a try.
What to take? I decided to take everything I thought i might need. I loaded my backpack with sketchbook, watercolor paints, pencil case, water containers, a jug of water, WC brushes, heavy WC paper taped to a board. In the trunk I loaded a patio chair, a wooden TV table, my wooden table easel, plus a bag lunch and flask of tea. Finally I was ready to go. (“Just call a moving truck,” hubby kidded when I told him all I was taking.)
Yesterday was mostly sunny and our friend’s property was gorgeous. Nestled in the forest of old-growth cedars, an old barn called to several of the artists.
Others found inspiration in the trees and other buildings.
I found a lovely spot beside a pond in our hostess’s garden.
My chair was pressed into service immediately. My sketchbook and pencil case got good use as I began with a pencil sketch, then inked my drawing. The flat section of my easel turned out to be a wonderful lap table, which held my sketchbook, paints and water container, filled of course from the bottle in my bag. And my bag lunch and tea were very welcome when lunchtime rolled around.
Altogether, it was a fabulous experience. I didn’t overpack (much), and the time spent working on art and experiencing the day with fellow artists was something I’d love to do again. (To see the artists at work, check out the Events page of our club’s website)
My inspiration:
My painting:
Have you had experience with plein air painting? Share your stories on the comments.
Violet Nesdoly 