Acrylics: A Quick and Efficient Medium for Painting On Location
The medium has become an integral part of how I compose — plunging right in, using my big brush like a saber, bringing to life large, bold subjects with absolutely no need for the careful planning that can turn a painting session into a bore.
How to Paint Clouds en Plein Air
The unique challenge of painting clouds is that, unlike other landscape elements, they’re in constant motion. Learn how to choose the right moment for painting clouds en plein air.
Broken Strokes for Different Folks
One artist shares the surprising and unusual methods he uses for creating effective values, edges, marks, and more.
How to Make a Color Chart for Plein Air Painting
Plein air artist Mark Boedges shares three color charts, along with important advice on creating and using them for your next plein air landscape.
9 Painting and Design Tips for Plein Air Watercolor
When painting with watercolor en plein air, follow this advice for the best shapes, angles, and experience.
12 Ways Artists Can Reduce Frustration While Painting
The art of painting is a head game. It requires a distraction-free environment that allows you to get into the painting zone and lets things go smoothly.
The Best Plein Air Umbrellas for Artists
What's the best umbrella for plein air painting? We asked, and you answered! Here's what artists from our community had to share, including some helpful photos.
Painting Tips for Beginners: 7 Steps to Help You Begin
Painting Tips for Beginners > Plein air painter Gary Snavely shares his advice to help you organize your thoughts for a greater chance of a good painting outcome.
Painting Basics: Understanding Value
“All of us, beginners and experienced painters alike, can benefit from a refresher course in the bedrock principles of value and color.” John MacDonald explains more in this overview.
5 Fixes for 5 Common Painting Mistakes
When you’ve been painting landscapes for as long as John Pototschnik, you come across common mistakes that ...
Getting Started in the Field
New to painting en plein air? Get advice for painting outdoors with this excerpt from the new book “Plein Air Painting Tips and Tales.”
From Fingers to Fanny – Tips for Staying Warm When Painting in Winter
I’ve painted outdoors in all kinds of weather and rarely have been uncomfortable because of the cold. My secret is ...
What’s in My Bag?
When flying with art supplies, make sure you arrive with everything you need. Get the top five preparedness tips here.
How Much Should Your Plein Air Painting Gear Weigh?
There’s a mental freedom we associate with painting outdoors, but that lightness can easily be juxtaposed with the ...
Packing Smart
Find out how just a few changes to your toolkit can make a positive difference to your plein air painting experience.
Plein Air Painting for Dummies
If you’re new to painting outdoors (or know someone who is), take advice from these 11 artists, including the most obvious but overlooked things you should know, and what “plein errors” to avoid.
The Worst Time of Day for Plein Air Painting
Avoid ending up with a plein air painting that has too many scattered, isolated, small shapes by ...
7 Things to Consider When Painting a Landscape Outdoors
Painting outdoors gives you so many options! Get insider notes from Carrie Curran's advice on "Plein Air Basics."
The Best Palettes for Plein Air Painting
What’s the best palette for painters? We asked, and you answered! More than 25 artists share their favorites here (including DIY palettes).
Plein Air Watercolor Tips and Tricks
When time is of the essence and access to supplies is limited, you must be prepared to make the most of what you have. Plein air watercolor painter Frank Costantino offers his best advice for how to handle just about any outdoor painting situation.