From the Latest Issue of PleinAir Magazine

PleinAir Magazine AprilMay 2025

Latest Articles

Plein Air Convention & Expo - new friends

Unexpected Friends — Now My Posse

Discover how one artist’s simple dinner invitation at the Plein Air Convention and Expo (PACE) sparked lasting friendships, creative collaboration, and a supportive art community that continues to flourish.
artist posing with her painting out in field

The Top Plein Air Painting Events for May 2025

Take advantage of these in-person and virtual plein air painting opportunities from our special guide! Bonus: Includes upcoming event deadlines!

Alpine Majesty Awaits: Join Us In Switzerland!

I’m reaching out personally to announce my newest artistic adventure: our Switzerland Plein Air Trip. I want to ensure you have the opportunity to secure your place.
Alex Hillkurtz, "L’horizon," 2020, watercolor and ink, 14 x 30 in. , private collection, studio

How to Paint a Busy Scene Without Making It Busy

For this demo on how to paint a busy scene, Alex Hillkurtz painted a cafe located down the street from where he lives in Paris.

Featured Artwork

Alex Hillkurtz, "L’horizon," 2020, watercolor and ink, 14 x 30 in. , private collection, studio

How to Paint a Busy Scene Without Making It Busy

For this demo on how to paint a busy scene, Alex Hillkurtz painted a cafe located down the street from where he lives in Paris.

When Plein Air Painting, Remember This Element

There’s a vital component for any artist to employ as they tackle the complexities of plein air painting ...
Artist Nancy Silvia plein air painting

Nancy Silvia’s Lifelong Journey in Plein Air Painting

Despite my years of experience, I feel that I’m continuing to learn things about painting and working outdoors. In general, my process benefits from ...
Amit Kapoor, "Boats of Italy," 2023, watercolor, 15 x 22 in., available from artist, plein air

How I Finish a Painting in Under an Hour

After drawing the scene, I wet my paper and work quickly to finish in under an hour. With eyes half-closed to see the values, I paint with ...
Beth Barger, “Tiny Holstein,” oil, 12 x 16 in.

We Need This: Adorable Pictures of Painters’ Pets

When we asked you to share your pets with us, you answered the call! Here are some of the PleinAir family’s furry friends. Enjoy!
Plein air artist Massimiliano Iocco

Painting in Italy: An Open-Air Museum

In recent years plein air painting has become a popular activity in Italy. There are several impromptu ...
Painting en plein air is a life changing, artistic experience. It's an open-ended artistic exploration without predefined guidelines or specified locations. The artist embarks on ...
Scott Christensen, Gouache Study, 2020, gouache, 8 x 8 in., Private collection, Plein air and studio

Scott Christensen on Establishing Key

Addressing connectivity from the outset of the design plan means setting aside the notion that the only way to make impact is through use of color.
photo of artist with her work in a gallery

Artist Spotlight: Laurel Daniel

How do you find inspiration? Laurel Daniel: Inspiration is everywhere. Finding it is a matter putting on my “art eyes” and being intentional about recognizing...
PleinAir Magazine AprilMay 2025

What’s Inside PleinAir Magazine, April/May ’25

Discover the beauty and artistry of plein air painting in the April/May 2025 issue of PleinAir magazine. Explore stunning landscapes, insightful artist features, practical painting tips, and the latest events in the plein air community.
Master watercolor artist Joseph Zbukvic offers this painting wisdom ...

Print & Digital Edition

Digital Extended Edition