Artist’s have long painted outdoors however plein air painting was we know it became popular during the mid-nineteenth century. Derived from the french term en plein air (meaning outdoor or in open air), Impressionists took to the outdoors to study and capture the world on canvas, working in natural light and observing the effects of the sun throughout the day.
Plein air study is at the heart of the Rome Art Program ethos. During the eight week program we spend our days (and some nights) on the streets of Rome painting, drawing and observing. It is an incredibly rewarding experience and one which our students treasure; techniques are mastered, appreciation of the world broadened and the art of seeing grows.
When painting outside you have to be prepared for all sorts of eventualities and so with this in mind we asked our faculty if they had any tips for working en plein air and this is what they said…
Plein air is about learning the difference between looking and seeing. Looking is for tourists, seeing is for artists
Carole Robb, Artistic Director
The sky can be exceedingly bright in the summer as can the reflections on the sculpture, make sure you have a proper well woven hat to shade your eyes.
Frances Middendorf, Drawing Instructor
When you draw, just as when you play a musical instrument like the cello or the harp; poise and posture are everything. If you slouch or lean all your body in a reclining position or again if you let your pad of paper wobble or its pages flip-flop around, your work will show all of your carelessness.
Jose Grave de Peralta, Drawing Instructor
There are many obstacles to hurdle; from trying to figure out how to stay away from tourists to wind blowing things around. The first thing I notice as one starts to work all that disappears in an instant. A student last summer said going out and doing it is just great!.
Steven Meek,