Adult Workshop: Introduction to Plein Air Painting

Introduction to Plein Air Painting

Instructor:  Linda Hollett-Bazouzi

Date: Saturday, July 16, 2022

Time: 9 am – 3 pm

Location:  Belle Isle State Park 1632 Belle Isle Road Lancaster, VA 22503

Cost: $120 for members; $138 for non-members

There will also be a $5 parking fee upon entering the park; exact change is recommended.

Materials:  Please see supply list on reverse and visit http://www.lindahollett.net/en-plein-air for videos and more information.

En plein air is a French term meaning (literally) 'in full air', 'outdoors'. Artists have always painted outdoors from life, but until the mid-19th century, it was usually regarded as a study, a reference for studio work.

During this one-day class, participants will paint outdoors and create one or two small paintings based on landscapes in Belle Isle State Park.  A picnic pavilion with nearby restrooms is reserved for the class so we can paint – rain or shine.  Linda has taught painting in public schools, community colleges, and here at the RAL Art Center.  She has also painted en plein air at locations throughout the world and has abundant wisdom to share.

If painting quickly outdoors seems intimidating, have no fear!  You will be in good hands with Linda and a group of fellow artists who will also be learning something new.  Who knows?  You may get hooked on this fun way to spend time out in nature!

Supplies:

Note:  This list appears at http://www.lindahollett.net/en-plein-air with other helpful information; plan to peruse that page before the workshop!

    • something to hold your painting surface: a pochade box and tripod, a simple aluminum A-frame easel, 

       or a French field easel

    • surface to paint on: paper, canvas, panel, etc.

    • paints and palette (lightweight, and as few colors as possible)

       — I like a palette box that has a cover, but if you are using a paper palette, you can throw it away.

       I use the Soho brand. It is a heavy paper.

    • brushes and/or palette knife

    • a piece of cardboard to tape your canvas or panel to, larger than your canvas (optional, but makes it easier to 

       carry your canvas).

    • 2" masking tape or painters’ tape

    • towels to clean your hands

    • baby wipes or water for cleaning. I use water-mixable oils, so no solvent. However, if you plan to use 

       regular oil paint, bring mineral spirits (preferably odorless) and a container with a lid for cleaning brushes.

    • TRASH BAG! (you’ll tape this to your easel legs for easy trash disposal)

    • bug spray, especially for TICKS!

    • sunscreen

    • stool or chair (optional)

    • plein air umbrella for the sun and/or rain (optional)

    • hat

    • sketchbook/pen

    • something to carry your equipment: backpack, rolling cart--everything in one — You don't want to be 

           worn out before you begin!  and water, coffee, maybe a sack lunch or snack!

If you are new to this, try out all your equipment, know now how to set it up, and try a small painting first, on your porch or back yard!

You can also just paint in your lap!