From the Latest Issue of PleinAir Magazine

PleinAir Magazine AugSept2026

Featured Artwork

Latest Articles

John Paul Marcelo, "Dubuque Lanes," 2023, oil, 9 x 12 in., available from artist, plein air painting

Plein Air Painting of the Week: “Dubuque Lanes”

Discover how artist John Paul Marcelo was inspired by the unique challenge of nocturne plein air painting for his nostalgic look at Americana.
Plein air painter Allison Krajcik

A Revelation: Her First Time Painting With Pastels

After years of navigating the delicate balance of watercolor, Allison Krajcik found herself craving a more forgiving medium. And pastel didn’t just change her technique — it expanded her artistic mindset.
Suma CM, "Teacup Trail, Sedona, AZ," mixed media, sketchbook

Urban Sketching 101: Insights from Four Artists

Interested in urban sketching? Learn how to simplify your gear, start small, and build confidence with these essential tips from experienced artists.
painting with gouache

Painting with Gouache: 7 Serene Examples

Mike Hernandez is a plein air artist and former animation Art Director who loves painting with gouache. Here, he shares seven of his landscapes along with inside info just for you.
Erin Dertner, "Island Glistening," oil, 8 x 16 in.

It Pays – Literally – To Persevere

While taking part in the Paint Maui Invitational, we encountered various weather patterns, including wind and rain. I had to work fast, but ...
Salon Art Prize - Deborah Tilby (Canada), “Poplars,” oil, 16 x 20 in.

Salon Art Prize 1st Place: “Poplars” Proves Popular

Artist Peggy Immel has revealed her selections for the June 2026 Salon Art Prize. They are ...
Painting clouds

Practical Advice for Painting Clouds

Because the diversity of cloud paintings is so unexpected, we offer the following practical advice for painting clouds and skies.
William Schneider, "Leaving the P&C at Dusk," 30 x 30 in.

The Real Key to Colors that People Love

"When someone tells me, 'I just love your colors,' I, of course, appreciate the compliment, but I think the real key lies in ...
Plein air at Halfmoon Bay, California, 2022 quick painting

9 Ways to Improve Your Quick Painting / Pochade Skills

Quick painting trains our reflexes and judgment; it improves the observation of the eyes and drawing skills of the hand.
Plein air painter Mo Myra

It’s Simple: Plein Air Painting Is My Joy

When Mo Myra isn't painting outdoors, she's working as a full-time commissioned live wedding painter and watercolor instructor for various institutions such as ...
Working through adversity with persistence, patience, and grace can make us better artists - and better humans, too.
The 22nd annual Plein Air Easton concluded another remarkable year, bringing together world-class artists, passionate collectors, dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and thousands of visitors for ten days celebrating art, community, and the landscapes of Maryland's Eastern Shore. This year's winner's are ...
Watch plein air artist Scott Hamill paint ‘Winter Light, California Coast’ step-by-step — learn how he captures light, shadow, and coastal atmosphere in this free oil painting demo.
One moment you’re looking out over sweeping, rugged terrain; the next, you’re caught up in the lively color and energy of ...

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