Color Corner: 10 Artists Share What’s on Their Palette
We asked some of your favorite plein air artists about their palettes and what colors — and brands — they use to create stunning landscapes.
Just Do the Preliminary Sketch – and 25 Other Painting Aha Moments
Do you remember the first time a painting concept clicked for you? For these Dreamliners, the big "aha" moment came during plein air workshops, painting travels, and even at Streamline events such as Plein Air Live, the world's first online art conference. Keep reading to see if you've shared some of these special moments!
Bring Duct Tape …
... and seven more plein air painting tips from Gavin Glakas.
What to Take When Painting en Plein Air: The Toolkit & Setup
If you're new to painting en plein air, or are experienced and curious about what others use on location, check out Kathleen Hudson's packing list, including her art toolkit and plein air setup.
A Way to Prepare for Drawing and Creativity
When it comes to painting, the act of drawing is often a departure from the classical linear concept that is understood by most people. Drawing, in the painting arena, has more to do with large compositional ideas and design elements, such as placement of objects or masses, linear movement, relative sizes of objects, weight distribution, and shapes.
18 Plein Air Tips for Beginners
Check out this helpful list of tips from Carrie Curran, who lays out what you should do before painting, advice for sketching your scene, and steps for success.
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.”
A Study-to-Studio Watercolor Demo: Oak Creek at Briar Patch XXII
Watch step by step as Julie Gilbert Pollard creates a plein air study with watercolor, then takes it into the studio to paint "Oak Creek at Briar Patch XXII."
The 10 Most Common Mistakes Painters Make
Tackle these common issues to start making better paintings sooner rather than later with this painting advice from John Cosby.
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."
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 ...
Painting Landscapes: Designing a Field Study on Location
When it comes to designing landscape paintings, artists usually have their own approach to making their paintings work, but there are certain common threads worth noting.
How to Avoid Painting Pitfalls
Keep your compositions fresh and lively by applying the mantra “same same, bad bad.”
Plein Air Painting and Personal Safety
This could save your life > Get expert tips from a Chicago artist on how plein air painters can be safe while painting outdoors in public spaces.
Plein Air Painting and the Need for Speed
Do you feel pressured to paint faster when en plein air? If you're tempted to practice the "smash and grab" technique, you might want to think twice. Here's why.
The Best Backpacks for Plein Air Painting
There are as many backpack brands and styles as there are colors in the western sunset, so what’s the best backpack for artists who paint en plein air? We asked, and you answered! (Bonus: Watch a free video from Eric Rhoads on how to pack a light plein air backpack.)
Urban Sketching 101: Insights from Four Artists
Interested in urban sketching? Learn how to simplify your gear, start small, and build confidence with these essential tips from experienced artists.
Tseng’s Tip for Beginner Plein Air Painters
To achieve free, direct handling, Hsin-Yao Tseng says it's important not to ...
4-Step Plein Air Oil Painting Demonstration
For plein air beginners: See how oil painter Anthony Salvo paints "Sparkling Cliffs, Inspiration Point," in four basic steps that you can apply to your next landscape.
Let’s Talk About the “T” Word
Excerpt: Landscape painter Rick J. Delanty addresses a misconception that “non-artists” seem to have about …