Adventures in Pure Color with Pastels
Molly Lipsher finds pastel the perfect medium for capturing the light, colors, and textures of the Western landscape.
A Volunteer with a Big Heart
In addition to painting beautiful landscapes that document a moment in time, plein air painters are out there making a big difference for individuals in many ways.
Artist Spotlight: Brienne M. Brown
For artist Brienne M. Brown, she made art a priority in her life, and instead of trying to find the time; she started to make the time to paint.
Artist Spotlight: Larry Cannon
This PleinAir Live 2021 Faculty artist was exposed to watercolor in college as part of his architectural training and notes specific moments in his early years of painting that changed his life.
Icebound in 1889: A Historic Plein Air Painting
A plein air painting by an artist who often explored the quiet beauty of a snowy landscape, finding the icy terrain conducive to contemplation and regeneration.
Artist Spotlight: Lon Brauer
How did you develop your unique style?
Lon Brauer: Painting is a journey on a winding path. No one can seek a personal style. Rather,...
Brian Sindler on the Acrylic Advantage
Discover why acrylic paint is the perfect match for an intuitive, fast-paced painting style—plus tips for keeping your palette and colors under control.
Mix, Apply, Repeat
Discover artist Kadin Goldberg’s journey—from training at the Angel Academy of Art in Florence to plein air painting in southern Arizona—and learn his insights on color, composition, and self-critique.
How I Create Flowing, Organic Lines with Watercolor
Inspiration from Cindy Briggs.
Artist Spotlight: Manon Sander
What is the best thing about being an artist?
Manon Sander: Of course, there are the obvious perks, like having an outdoor office or occasionally...
Artist Confession: “I have no control.”
Painting en plein air requires you to engage all five senses. As an actor within a dynamic environment, you impart a unique energy and freshness to your work.
Should You Plan Your Plein Air Painting?
Plein air watercolor artist Stewart White has a background in illustration and design, which shows in his paintings and his teachings. The following is his Q&A on the benefits of travel for artists, the use of edges in a painting, and thoughts on planning a plein air piece.
Plein Air Heritage: Claude Monet
A Spotlight on our Plein Air Heritage: In his later years, Claude Monet (France, 1840–1926) stayed close to home, relying increasingly on his garden at Giverny for inspiration...
My Greatest Teacher
A special spotlight on someone from the plein air painting community you may not know yet: Erin Spencer on her Aha moment, and more.
Artist Spotlight: Carol Strock Wasson, IAPS-EP, PSA-M, AWA CPP-M
Carol Strock Wasson: I've always found magic in the interplay of layers—the dialogue between control and spontaneity that only a complex surface can offer....
Artist Spotlight: Jessie Rasche
How did you develop your unique style?
Jessie Rasche: I’m teaching a workshop right now on how to find and develop your authentic artistic voice,...
Our Plein Air Heritage
As a plein air artist, you are part of one of the largest art movements in history. In this "plein air heritage" series, learn about ...