I recently started painting plein air. Plein air means painting outside. I wanted to share some things I have learned about painting plein air.

Oil paint is a good option when paining plein air because it is slow drying. You can put your solvent in a jar with a tight fitting lid. I pick colors that would mix well for colors I see in nature instead of taking all my paint. A limited pallet is a smart move.

Brushes: take just a few brushes the canvas is usually smallish when you paint plein air two medium brushes and one or two small brushes are really enough

Canvas: I have been using canvas board or small canvas. I pre-tint the canvas so it is ready to go. You can do this with oil or acrylic paint. I use a natural yellow color.

Make sure you include paper towels, a scraper for your pallet, cotton cloth to clean brushes, a pencil for quick sketch and a view finder. I carry old towels in the car in case I need to use them as a table cloth or bench cover. I also throw in a lawn chair. I stand to paint most of the time, but it is nice to have options.

I carry all my supplies in a basket. I have a French Easel and a plein air easel that sits on a table. I take both easels and depending on the setting I decide to paint depends on the easel I use.

And now for info you wont find anywhere else LOL

Choose a place that is somewhat close to a bathroom!!! There are restrooms in state parks and if you are going to be in an area for any length of time you will be glad you are near a bathroom!

The benefit I have found painting plein air is it has reinvigorated me to paint when I felt dry. I also love the challenge of figuring out a composition. And lastly the greatest part of plein air is being outside for hours and just being still. I have seen animals that didn’t expect me to be there and I have also had people stop to chat. You just never know what your plein air day will bring. But you can expect a great day!