What is Plein Air Painting?

Plein Air painting is a French term meaning "in the open air". It refers to the practice of creating art outdoors, directly from nature. This style allows artists to capture the immediate beauty of landscapes, urban scenes, and natural light, rather than relying on sketches or photographs.

The core lies in the artist’s engagement with the shifting conditions of light, atmosphere, and the environment. First popularised in the mid-19th century by the French Impressionists, this style has seen a revival in recent years, where outdoor painting festivals and workshops are flourishing.

The appeal of painting outdoors

The charm is its immersive nature. Artists enjoy the chance to step outside the studio and fully experience the landscapes they paint, feeling the changing light, weather, and atmosphere around them.

The weather conditions are famously unpredictable in the UK, and this presents both a challenge and a thrill. According to British Plein Air painter Valérie Pirlot, it's often the unexpected scenes, like light catching a bench or an abstract play of shapes and colours, that inspire successful compositions.

Artists find the experience highly rewarding as it pushes them to respond to their environment and often leads to more vibrant, immediate work.

Techniques and materials

One of the major advantages is its simplicity, though the choice of materials plays a key role in success. Portability is essential, with many Plein Air artists using lightweight easels, compact palettes, and portable paint supplies.

While oil paints are a favourite for their texture and vibrancy, watercolours are also popular for their quick drying time and easy transport. Watercolourists can capture delicate washes of light, making it an ideal medium for those who want to work quickly under changing conditions.

Plein Air Movement in the UK

The Plein Air movement has gained substantial traction in the UK, with events and festivals celebrating this form of art across the country.

Paint Out Norfolk attracts over 140 artists each year and includes exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations. Similar events in Windsor and Suffolk bring together both amateur and professional artists to celebrate the joys of outdoor painting.

The British Plein Air Painters group has been instrumental in promoting the movement through public exhibitions and organised paint-out days, encouraging more artists to explore the medium and interact with the public.

Tips for beginners

Starting small is key. Focus on limited colour palettes and simple compositions to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Working with the same palette consistently helps with intuitive colour mixing. It’s also helpful to sketch out your composition before applying paint.

Additionally, beginners should remember not to feel pressured by changing conditions. If the light shifts dramatically, many suggest starting a fresh piece rather than chasing changes.

Finally, embrace imperfection. There is much to learn from the challenges of outdoor painting, and not every piece will be a masterpiece.