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What Is Plein Air ?
The term “plein air” was used to describe Claude Monet and the Impressionists in France. In French it means “open air” or “outside,” but since Monet’s time the term has been used to describe people who take their easels outdoors to paint. Plein Air painting is for people who love to be outdoors in nature, people who love to paint landscapes (as well as other outdoor subjects like buildings, cities, old barns, farm equipment, statues, flowers, gardens and people). Painting outdoors offers artists the pleasure of being in nature, the ability to “stop and smell the roses” because of the need to concentrate on a single scene until the painting is completed.

MUST SEE DOCUMENTARY ON PLEIN AIR
The documentary OUTSIDE THE LINES promotes plein air painting.

Find an Instructor
Though anyone can learn to paint on his or her own, the best and fastest way to learn and avoid frustration is to find someone who can teach you the tricks and techniques. You’ll speed your learning process and make bigger strides more quickly. Most instructors offer workshops, one-week courses with other students. Some offer private lessons and group lessons you can take daily or weekly. Use our directory to find an artist in your area.