Plein Air Setup
If you're an artist, you know that outdoor painting can be incredibly rewarding. But if you're new to plein air painting, you might be wondering what kind of setup you'll need. In this article, we'll go through all the essentials to make sure you're prepared for your next outdoor painting adventure.
The Problems with Outdoor Painting
Outdoor painting can be a fantastic experience, but it also comes with a number of challenges. For one thing, you'll need to have all your materials organized and easily accessible so you don't waste time looking for things when you could be painting. Plus, there's the whole issue of wind, rain, and other environmental factors that can make it difficult to create the perfect painting.
The Essentials for Your Plein Air Setup
So, what exactly do you need to create your own plein air setup? First and foremost, you'll need an easel. These can range from simple tabletop models to more elaborate ones that can stand up on their own. You'll also need a palette - there are a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, so pick one that works for you. Other essentials include your paintbrushes, paints, and paper or canvas. Lastly, you'll want to bring along a hat, sunscreen, and other protective gear to make sure you don't get too hot or sunburned while you're outside.
Main Points about Plein Air Setup
As you can see, there are a lot of different components that go into creating the perfect plein air setup. From the easel to the paints, you'll want to make sure everything is in place before you start painting. Plus, it's important to be aware of the challenges that come along with outdoor painting so you can prepare for them in advance.
Choosing the Right Easel for Your Needs
One of the most important components of your plein air setup is the easel. You'll need something sturdy that can hold your painting surface in place while you work. There are a lot of different options out there, from basic wooden models to more advanced aluminum ones. Personally, I prefer a lightweight model that is easy to carry around, especially if I'm going to be hiking to my painting spot.
When you're choosing your easel, think about the size of the canvas or paper you typically use. You'll want to make sure the easel can accommodate your chosen surface. Also think about the terrain where you'll be painting - will you need an easel that can be staked into the ground? These are all important factors to consider before you make your final purchase.
Protecting Your Painting Surface from the Elements
Another important consideration when it comes to plein air setup is protecting your painting surface from the elements. Wind, rain, and even bugs can all wreak havoc on your painting, so you'll want to be prepared. One option is to bring along a clear plastic sheet that you can drape over your painting surface when you're taking a break. This will keep everything protected from the wind and rain.
Optimal Placement for Your Palette
When it comes to using your palette in an outdoor setting, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. First, make sure your palette is properly secured to your easel or painting surface so it doesn't go flying away in the wind. You'll also want to be strategic about where you place your palette. For example, if you're right-handed, you might want to place it on the left side of your easel to avoid accidentally smudging your painting with your hand.
Choosing the Right Paints for Plein Air Painting
Choosing the right paints for your plein air setup will depend in large part on your personal preferences. Some artists like to bring along a large selection of colors so they can accurately capture the environment they're in, while others prefer a more limited palette. One thing to keep in mind is that you'll want to choose paints that are easy to transport and won't dry out too quickly in the sun.
Making the Most of Your Outdoor Painting Experience
At the end of the day, plein air painting is all about immersing yourself in the natural world and letting your creativity flow. With the right setup and a little bit of preparation, you'll be able to create beautiful works of art while enjoying the great outdoors. So grab your paints and head outside - the possibilities are endless.
Question and Answer
1. Do I Need an Expensive Easel for My Plein Air Setup?
Not necessarily. While there are certainly a lot of high-end easels out there, you don't need to break the bank to create a great plein air setup. There are plenty of affordable options that are sturdy and well-made.
2. Should I Use Oil Paints for Plein Air Painting?
Again, this comes down to personal preference. Some artists prefer oil paints because they give them more time to work and blend colors, while others prefer acrylics because they dry more quickly. Try experimenting with different mediums to see what works best for you.
3. How Can I Protect My Paints from the Sun?
One option is to use a hat or other protective gear to shield your painting area from direct sunlight. You can also try to position your easel or painting surface so that it's in the shade.
4. What's the Best Way to Transport My Plein Air Setup?
There are a lot of different options when it comes to transporting your plein air setup. Some artists prefer to use a backpack or other bag, while others choose to strap everything to their easel. Pick an option that works for you and makes it easy to get everything from point A to point B.
Conclusion
With the right plein air setup, you'll be able to take your painting practice to new heights. By being prepared and knowing what to expect, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable outdoor painting experience. Happy painting!
Gallery
Seamless Expression: How I Made My Plein Air Setup
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Clague Fine Art Blog: Our Simple, Portable Plein Air Setup
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Clague Fine Art Blog: Our Simple, Portable Plein Air Setup
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Seamless Expression: How I Made My Plein Air Setup
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Plein Air Painting Setup - Everything You Need To Paint Ourdoors
Photo Credit by: bing.com / plein drawpaintacademy