7 Art Studio Projects for Difficult Times
If you're spending a lot of time isolated, as many of us are, you'll appreciate this list of painting projects that John MacDonald put together to help you stay focused, inspired, and ready to paint your next landscape.
How (and Why) This Artist Painted 186 Barns in Indiana
“Heritage Barns of Indiana” is a painting project started in 2004 by Gwen Gutwein. “My focus was on historic barns throughout Indiana and capturing as many on canvas as possible, on location,” she said. We asked Gutwein to tell us about her inspiring and meaningful project, including her guidelines for painting historic barns and her advice for other plein air artists.
Plein Air Watercolor: From Sketch to Finish
See how this outdoor painter considered her options for capturing a “Joyful Day” on paper at Acadia National Park.
Why Plein Air? It’s Natural
A growing number of artists embrace the genre, yet others are skeptical. Why do some gravitate toward painting outside while others say, “Why bother with the hassle?”
Artist Encounters With Curious Cows
There are some challenges that all plein air artists come across while in the field, including weather and insects. Among the top occurrences just might be of the bovine variety...
What is Intuitive Painting?
Johanne Mangi explains how to use intuition when painting, and what a difference it can make when you "let go" during the creative process.
Art Goes On
"I hope the overriding takeaway from all of the stories in this issue is that painters are still painting." Kelly Kane shares a preview of the new issue of Plein Air magazine, and insights on how the art community has adapted.
Featured Artwork: Mark Fehlman
Laguna Sunset Glow by Mark Fehlman
18 x 24 in.
Oil
Available at Huse Skkelly Studio Gallery
For me, the Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational starting in...
The How of Painting Clouds and Sky
In case you missed it: We received a wide variety of submissions from an earlier Winter Sky Challenge. So what did we see when we looked at the paintings? Two things.
How 7 Artists Impacted a Community
We receive much correspondence from artists, collectors, and societies. In this letter, Debra Riley, Gallery Manager / Conroe Art League, shares with us the story of how "one little decision" forever altered her life, and the lasting impact of a handful of artists in the 1960’s.
To Paint Manically Before the Light Goes
Clementine St John Webster, classical artist (born 1989) grew up with her family in the deep countryside of Wiltshire and Somerset in the UK,...
6 Artist Quotes We Love
We could always use a little inspiration, yes? With that in mind, you'll love this mini-collection of quotes for (and by) artists that our team has put together for you!
How I Developed My Artistic Style: Growth, Beauty, Mission
Should you be happy with "only good paintings?" This plein air painter thinks so, and here's why.
Travel Sketching: Tips for Keeping an Art Journal
From 2015 to 2018, Ivan Chow made trips to and around Istanbul, Turkey, sketching many scenes along the way. In this excerpt from his upcoming book, "Travel Sketching: Drawing Insights from Istanbul," he shares one of his favorite formats for drawing on location.
What Comes First: The Painting or the Title?
Artist and author John Pototschnik explains his process when it comes to giving a landscape painting the perfect title.
Painting and “The Cringe Factor”
For artists, when you get that incredible uncomfortable feeling it might be - no, it is - a good thing. Johanne Mangi explains.
Spotlight on UK Plein Air Artist David Sawyer
In a departure from his usual architectural subjects, David Sawyer shares a garden study, including his techniques and supplies.
On Painting “Flowers of the Field”
Laurel Daniel finds inspiration in the landscapes around her. Here she shares how she worked through her painting process for "Flowers of the Field."
From Plein Air Magazine: The More We Know
The new issue of Plein Air Magazine celebrates top painters who opt for pastels. In addition to sharing a passion for the work, the featured artists demystify pastels, busting myths about their versatility and longevity.
1 Iceberg, 45 Paintings
Take in 45 interpretations of an iceberg in this roundup of paintings from the Plein Air Live Happy Hour Paint Along!