I have now been painting for about 20 years, more seriously for about 10 of these. I have tried various subjects, methods, techniques and mediums, and I continue to explore all the time. There are some mediums and techniques I prefer, and some I don’t really care for. One of those is plein air painting. Now in case you don’t know what that is, plein air painting is simply painting outside rather than in a studio. It was more or less invented by the impressionists in France, hence the French term “plein air”, which strangely enough francophone painters around here call “peindre sur le motif”! Go figure! Anyway, proponents of “plein air” painting tout its incomparable virtues, stating there is no substitute for seeing the “real colors” and the “real light”, and swear that no photo can capture these for the artist to paint anything decent from. That has not been my experience. Give me a great photo from which I can paint at my leisure in a nice comfy studio any day! As you can imagine, painting out of doors comes with its share of irksomeness. You have to:
If it sounds like perhaps I am not a fan, you could be right! I know a lot of people who simply adore plein air painting, and I figure they must know something I don’t and I really have to try it again (I have tried it just outside my house, and other than the onlookers I had to deal with all the above). So I planned to do it this week, by going to paint at the new location of our local lavender farm, which I visited last week with the local group of artists I recently joined. The group has a fantastic arrangement with the owners, allowing us to go paint on location any time and to even sell a few paintings on the spot. And it is a beautiful spot! So with step 1 taken care of, and step 2 pretty much assured, I started thinking of step 3 and realised that I don’t really have the right equipment! At home on the deck, I can sit and put my stuff on the outdoor table, but out in the field, I would need a standing portable easel, strong enough to also hold my paints, brushes, and water. And I don't want to be carrying too much stuff! So I did what I like best, started looking online for a second-hand plein air easel. Thankfully it didn’t take long and I am now the proud owner of a very nice, good quality French easel (that really is what it is called!). I only have to figure out how to get my paints and stuff organised in it and I will be good to go! Literally! Today is a holiday in Quebec and a beautiful day, and even though the crowds at the lavender place may be a bit more than I want to face on a first outing, I will be doing 3 though 14 later today. Wish me luck!
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AuthorMy name is Claire Bureau. Archives
March 2023
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