I love painting outside, en plein air 👨🎨
But, I had a hard time figuring out where to start, and how to do it.
So, if you are new to plein air, here’s the best way to get started:
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Read This Book: Hawthorne on Painting by Charles W. Hawthorne. Actually, just read the introduction. Pages 17-20. He offers beautiful words to motivate you to get outside. He shares a positive mindset. Just “getting outside” can be the hardest part. Hawthorne’s words help.
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Watch This YouTube Video: My Gouache Plein Air Set Up!! by Tiffanie Mang. She explains the convenience of gouache for plein air. She offers several affordable, lightweight setups. She shares her minimal approach, which is essential for painting outside. She gives many tips to stay comfortable.
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Get out there: Don’t overthink. Don’t over research. Assemble your gear. Pick a nice day. Find a nearby spot with an interesting view. Start with a small painting. Aim for practice, not a museum masterpiece. Be kind to yourself. Congratulate yourself for painting outside. Then do it again, on another day. As Hawthorne and Mang both share, it’s about the process, iteration, and habit.
These 3 things will get you started. Then keep enjoying the fun and beauty of plein air.