Participate in Paint the Town’s Plein Air Competition!

Learn more about the painting “en plein air” from MAA’s Plein Air Committee Co-Chairs, Lynn Lewis and Patti Connell, interviewed by Teresa Sites, MAA Communications VP.

What does it mean to paint en plein air?

For me, painting en plein air means that I try to catch a moment in time, or a series of moments, on my canvas. The sparkles of light and shapes of shadows will change over a morning, so as I see them, I pick the ones that work for my painting. At the beginning, I’m true to what I see. After a few hours, I pick and choose what will help the design. The whole process, choosing the gear which is best for me, finding the right frame of mind, and trying to overcome obstacles, enduring…is like a sport. -Lynn

Painting en plein air is the process of selecting a suitable location, bringing your own gear, and painting outside. You may choose a city street or a field, the patio of a favorite restaurant, anywhere you find a desirable view that you would like to paint.  You will find you will be hyper aware of the weather conditions and the movement of the sun as the day progresses. These environmental conditions are an integral part of the challenge of painting en plein air. -Patti

Why should I participate in Paint the Town’s plein air competition?

It’s a fun challenge no matter how experienced or new to painting you may be. Simply ask yourself, what would I love to paint in Kensington (Broad vista, tiny details, people, architecture, charm of town, bustling farmers market, diners…)? Then give it a try. We have opened the time frame, so you don’t need to feel rushed. Starting Friday evening you could try a nocturne or wake up early Saturday for a sunrise. If something doesn’t work, just get another surface stamped and try again. We will have models by a shady fountain midday on Saturday if you wish to paint them. -Lynn

The Paint the Town event is an opportunity to get out there and paint and to show your work and see others work as well. -Patti

How do MAA plein air events work?

Every month, we gather with new and old friends to paint and chat about painting for a few hours. We pick a site that won’t be difficult to access, and which is full of interesting painting options. Just arrive with your painting gear and jump in. It’s a delight to paint around supportive folks and so fun to compare experiences afterwards. -Lynn

MAA plein air events give the artist an opportunity to paint en plein air with other artists.  You will be amongst artists of all levels of experience. We generally meet at a location early in the morning to get the best light and temperatures. Everyone wanders around to find a location that speaks to them and proceeds to set up and spend several hours painting. 3-4 hours is usually enough time for most to complete and there are those who would like to gather and share their work.  -Patti

What do I need to bring?

Bring whatever you need to make your art on a 2D stamped surface. This could simply be your sketchbook and a pen, or paper and watercolors, or canvas and paints. Always bring whatever you need to take care of yourself as well. Don’t forget water and maybe bug spray, sunscreen, a hat. You might want a frame or a matt if you wish to exhibit and offer your piece for sale afterwards.  -Lynn

You can work in any medium that you are comfortable working in, and that you can carry to your spot.  Plein Air artists love to conveniently paint out of the back of their car, but that is not always possible.  Bring your medium, brushes, paper or canvas, a tripod and easel, snack, water, bug spray and sun block.  some bring a folding chair but everything is minimally packed up for ease of carrying. -Patti

Do I need any prior experience or knowledge?

You need no prior experience with plein air events to participate. We welcome all! You might find that the more of these you do, the more fun you will have. It can be addictive. There are plein air options throughout the year so if this sparks joy for you, join us for more!

-Lynn

What are good books or resources for learning more about plein air painting?

Great question!

“Alla Prima, Everything I Know about Painting” by Richard Schmid (book is open on my couch right now!)

“Carlson’s Guide to Landscape Painting” by John F. Carlson (I inherited my father’s copy- it’s been in print since 1958 for a reason- superb resource.)

“Landscape Painting Inside and Out” by Kevin Macpherson

(I like his mission to keep it simple.)

Take a class! Yellow Barn offers fabulous and reasonable options. Walt Bartman inspired me to paint plein air 40 years ago!

Our own Compass Art Center and Glen Kessler have great classes. Winslow Art Center offers online classes and travel possibilities. Here I recommend Bernie Dellario. -Lynn

I would do a google search and look it up.  There are many classes available on the internet or in person. -Patti