Artist Spotlight: Nancie King Mertz
As a plein air painter in Chicago, I was fascinated by the calligraphy created in the sky by the EL and other metal structures, with the negative space being as important as the positive...
Watercolor Tip: Be Adaptable
Brienne Brown shares her approach to painting with watercolor in this quick tip for beginners.
10 Mighty Mountains
Across centuries, artists have looked to high places for subjects that evoke awe, challenge perspective, and stir the spirit. From remote mountains and rugged cliffs to gently rolling hills, these scenes have long symbolized both grandeur and solitude. In this showcase, ten contemporary plein air painters continue that tradition, capturing the drama, mystery, and quiet majesty of the world’s elevated landscapes.
Watch: Secrets of Sketching en Plein Air
In case you missed it, check out this interview below with Paul Kratter, who demonstrates helpful techniques for sketching en plein air.
How to Create a Great Painting From an Imperfect Photo Reference
Plein air painter Shelby Keefe shows us how she took a lackluster photo reference and turned it into a painting with great design and color.
Six Questions With Clyde Aspevig
Clyde Aspevig has had a major influence on many painters all around the world, especially landscape painters. Although known best for his remarkable landscapes,...
Plein Air Practice: My Daily Painting Exercise
To ensure she regularly paints from direct observation, Lyn Asselta uses this simply painting exercise each morning. It is to ...
July’s Hottest Plein Air Painting Destinations
Check out these July 2026 plein air painting events and opportunities, highlighting art shows throughout the U.S. Bonus: Catch this month's deadlines so you don't miss out on upcoming opportunities.
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.
Plein Air Fest Winners in Wyoming
Forty-four invited artists took to NMWA's Sculpture Trail for a morning of live painting, music, and community celebration—drawing over 800 collectors and art enthusiasts. When the silent auction closed, total gross sales reached ...
7 Surprising Tricks for Painting en Plein Air
You might think you know all the tricks to the trade when it comes to painting en plein air, but these three artists have some witty ideas for making it an even better experience.
3 Painting Habits That Will Instantly Simplify Your Process
Kevin Macpherson approaches painting through a simple, structured system. Here, learn his three habits you should apply now to improve your process for painting the landscape, and more.
A Classic Mistake Almost Ruined My Tuscan Painting
Hot and tired from lugging my gear through the steep hillside town, I decided that I would stop and paint the next remotely suitable scene. Suddenly I came across the perfect spot…
7 Tips for Painting Vibrant Color
Plein air painter and fourth-generation artist Jed Dorsey shares his tips for getting brilliant color into your next landscape painting.
Artist Spotlight: Cindy Harris
Cindy Harris: "Find Your Flock" In May, I gathered with the largest flock of plein air painters at PACE (Plein Air Convention and Expo),...
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 ...
6-Step Landscape Painting Demo: Painting Back to Front
Watch and learn as Sara Linda Poly shows how her landscape painting, "Mountains and Long Shadows," came to be.
I Will Paint In Any Way Possible
Landscape painter Alex Dzigurski has led an inspired life, with a talented father leading him to the path of being an artist. Today, Alex continues to paint and teach, despite having MS.
Announcement: The April Salon Art Prize Winners Are …
Catherine Saks, of Saks Gallery in Cherry Creek, Colorado, has revealed her selections for the April 2026 Salon Art Prize. They are ...
Step-by-Step: Edit the Landscape for Better Composition
A strong composition is achieved through intentional design, not a happy accident of random shapes. If we look closely, nature gives us all the information we
need. We just have to organize the pieces to create visually pleasing paintings.
5 Quick and Dirty Tips for Artists
Plein air painter Gene Costanza shares his five quick tips for artists on composition, color, and more.
Painting of the Week: “Where the Buffalo Roam, Isaiah 40:31”
"Where the Buffalo Roam, Isaiah 40:31" is an oil painting born from a deep connection to the wild heart of Yellowstone National Park in the Lamar Valley and a reflection on endurance and hope.
2026 Plein Air Southwest Winners Announced
As the volunteers working the 2026 Plein Air Southwest packed up the exhibit panels and swept the floor, Randall Kirby Cogburn said it best: “Can't wait to do it again next year, all fun!” The winners this year are ...
Artist Spotlight: Melanie Barash Levitt
Melanie Barash Levitt:
How do you develop your unique style?
Melanie: My impressionist style has evolved through years of experimentation and observing the landscape en plein...
6 Ways to Develop a Distinctive Style
Beth Bathe's reductive approach to plein air painting, combined with simplification, strong design, and a unique perspective, distinguishes her from other artists. Here are a few elements that contribute to her distinct artistic identity and how you can use them to set your own work apart.