Why You Might Want To Try En Plein Air Painting

There is something about our new home that makes me want to paint it. I have always loved Connecticut and living in New England, but our new home has ignited my imagination and creativity like I have not experienced in years. I haven’t painted in a very long time, especially oil painting. I felt inspire to pull my desktop easel out of the craft cabinet and grab my brushes and box of paints. I unknowingly began an “En Plein Air Painting.”

What is En Plein Air Painting?

“En Plein Air,” is French for “in the open air,” which is exactly what it means to get outside and paint in nature. To become a plein air painter all you need to do is go out into the landscape and paint (or sketch) while immersed in the landscape. It is a popular French practice of painting landscapes (or cityscapes and events) on location at the source and is often, but not always, impressionistic.

You do not need a fancy easel or many supplies or even refined skill to participate in Plein air painting. It is for everyone and I think you should give it a try.

I believe that many people could benefit from Plein air painting, even those who do not feel that they are artistically inclined, because it is more than just the final product. Plein Air painting is about spending time outdoors, unplugging, and immersing yourself in the moment. With Plein air painting you tap into your creativity and in return replenish your wellbeing.

How can I try Plein Air Painting?

You do not need a ton of expensive art supplies to participate in Plein air painting (or sketching). You do not need an easel or a stool. All you need is a canvas or sketchbook, a hard surface like a large hardcover book or a wood board, a blanket or yoga mat to sit on, a paintbrush, a cup for water, some paper towels, and some paints. Some people even use metal mint boxes to hold small paints and the back of the lid to hold a small piece of paper to paint on. You can find all of your necessary supplies at your local craft store. If you find that you enjoy it immensely, then you can slowly add to your art supply collection over time.