Plein Air Attempt

Glorious Day, 6x6in., oil on board

I have this nagging expectation in my head that says 'real' painters paint 'plein air'. Wikipedia defines plein air: "a French expression which means "in the open air", and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors." Doesn't that sound artistically official?

While I can appreciate the tremendous value of painting on location, painting outside has not yielded great results for me. But, the weather was gorgeous, so I felt like I should give it a go - for the practice.
(Secretly, I was hoping I would be victorious!)

I scouted out a few fascinating blooms in our Rose of Sharon bushes, noting how the light was making the petals glow. It took several trips back and forth to get all of my paraphernalia out to the spot I had selected...Then a couple more as I realized what I'd forgotten. I was optimistic that this time I would succeed!

After an hour or so, I headed back inside with an awkward looking bloom. Last night, I finished the painting in my studio while referring to the photos I had taken earlier. (sheepish grin)

As for painting outside: I will try painting plein air again another day (It really is good practice for seeing shapes and color.) Today, I think I'll go back outside to paint the trim around our garage. Now, that I can do!


I would love to read your thoughts...

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