If you have ever considered painting outdoors as the impressionists had done, I hope this will inspire the confidence to embark on this path in seeing nature in a whole other way.

When I first started to paint outdoors, I was immediately taken by the sense of peace that I experienced from being in nature. I was able to let go of my typical approaches to painting from a photo and just enjoy observing the beauty that lay before me. My thoughts gradually dwindled away as I started to mix colors as closely as possible to the what I was perceiving in the landscape. After an hour or so I almost felt that the landscape was painting me. I had entered into a “flow state” that I hadn’t experienced previously and was hooked. My senses were enlivened by the light breeze off the ocean, the warmth of the sun on my face, and the refreshing smell of pine trees. All were finding their way into my work. It was magical.

Plein-Air Painting Supplies

I suggest the following materials below as a starting place.

Portable easel

Attachment for holding your palette

Palette seal with paint

Various size synthetic brushes

Safflower oil medium for mixing and cleaning

Paper towels or rag

Sunscreen and wide brim hat

Bug repellent (helpful, depending on location)

Weather-appropriate attire

Water

(Important to keep things as minimal as possible, especially when walking to a painting location)

Finding a Location

I would suggest finding a scene of particular interest and generally simple to start. The idea is about focusing on a simple composition, interesting shapes of lights and shadows.

Suggestions for First Outing

1.) Decide on the type of light of most interest, whether it be a sunrise or sunset.

2.) Keep an open mind as there are many variables involved with plein-air oil painting. There’s only so much that can be controlled.

3.) It’s important to see the experience as a study in seeing. The beauty of the outdoor experience is the things you hadn’t originally noticed that are revealed with close attention.

4.) Be mindful of your breath for being present and helping to be more aware of your surroundings as well.

5.) Work quickly at first to block in the basic components of your composition while gradually adding some detail. The emphasis is on the basic structure so it’s important to notice color and value relationships, focal point for accentuating depth, balance between positive and negative space, warms and cools, lights and darks.

Final Thoughts

Keep a sketchbook for small compositional. studies and for inspiring new ideas

Take any photos as a reference, not for working from as the quality of light will not be the same,

The light changes quickly so it’s important to emphasize working quickly overall.

Last, but not least. Be sure to have fun exploring new possibilities. It’s most important. With practice and patience, your own distinct style of painting will emerge.

If this all sounds interesting, consider enrolling in my next plein-air class starting June 14th. I can walk you through the basic set up and the specific techniques involved to set you on a new adventure.

Please contact me with any questions as I hope you can join!

Plein-Air Oil Painting for the Beginner

Composition: Creating Balance and Focus in Your Art