Plain air vs. Studio | Importance of Place for Artist

plein-air - denoting or in the manner of a 19th-century style of painting outdoors, which became a central feature of French impressionism.

En plein air is a French expression which means “in the open air”.

It is used by artists to describe the art of outdoor painting, capturing landscapes and views in natural light. This kind of art has been a popular practice for centuries and requires specific skills and techniques. 

As artist I used to paint in totally different places and in different atmosphere. When I was in art school I heard some of the teacher was saying that artist can paint in any circumstances and in any uncomfortable place, not like musicians for example. At least

musicians need chairs and very often big instrument to play. Though in the art school and Art University we have been forced to sit on uncomfortable chairs and in very cold auditoriums.

Since then I am in the search of perfect working area.

Right now I paint mostly in the studio. As models I use manikins or photos.

Several years ago I loved plain air paintings. It’s when you are taking very big and heavy painter’s case and walked kilometers through city or village in search of beautiful place to paint.

The walk and search was pretty annoying, but the moment I started to paint and enjoy the process listening to music in my headphones was priceless.

The inspiration, fresh air and butterfly’s (and sometimes other insects) around inspired me a lot.

Okay it was only the case of good weather ( you must be very flexible, because weather can change anytime) and no people around.

Do you know what does it mean when people walking through your art spot? It’s not only when they stop and enjoy your process. Most of the time they give suggestions, criticize and asking to paint them. This is truly annoying moment for every artist on plain air. People simply love to watch.  I know I do! 

They are intrigued by the work you are doing.  Most won’t disturb you, but some just can’t help themselves.  The questions just bubble up, and out it comes! 

It can be disconcerting, especially if you are having a hard time of it, and the painting isn't going well. 

Just remember, you may have been just like them in an earlier time.  Be polite, and state that you have a limited amount of time to complete this passage, and that you’ll be very happy to answer questions in a few moments.  Do remember, your conversation may turn into a sale!  So don’t shush them away too soon.

Anyway try not to choose tourist area for your plain air.

Even the area near farm or small park can be inspiring and very good.

Another think is bulky painter’s case and limited amount of art supplies you can take with you.

I remember after month of plain air and walking with painter’s case every day, I have red scars on both of my shoulders. Struggling’s of the plain air artists.

To limit your artist’s problems I suggest choosing area before and thinking about materials and colors you would need. This way you can limit the things you would need to take with you.

Before go out one more useful tip is to practice at your studio. Make several photos of area you want to paint. Set alarm on and start paint. When alarm will go off, stop and don’t finish the piece. This way you would understand your ability of fast painting and will work on your weaknesses. Plus it will not be that difficult and scary when you will start creating on plain air.

Studio in this case is cozy, bright and comfortable place where you can drink strong tea, watch art house movie while painting. This is exactly my working space as artist. What is better is difficult to say because as many artist as many different opinions.

I knew artists who made amazing art only outside near lake with sound of thunderstorm. And mosquitos did not annoy them in the process of creation.

Another artists love exposure, when people look at the process, finding new admires of their art. It was such marketing plain air.

The work on plain air must be fast to catch the moment, to show the mood of nature (work must be done maximum in 4-5 hr), when in studio you can paint months one art work.

I am the one who can wake up and feel the need to run to canvas to start paint before having morning coffee. But I never have mood to take canvas and go out to paint straight in the morning.

So I am not rejecting plain air for myself. But I live now in Bahrain where approximate summer temperature is 45 C. So plain air painting is possible on winter days only. Even though I remember I tried to make some sketches sitting in the car with conditioner. But it does not call plain air in this case.

Remember one thing, as artists you must try to paint on plain air at least several times to understand if you like it or not.

Painting outdoors will stir your imagination.  You will see colors that you didn’t realize existed.  They will be intense beyond anything a photograph can capture, and more brilliant than your memory can recall. 

Maybe you find amazing development in your art on the outside.