Plein Air Painting …

A French term referring to: Painting Outdoors.  Inspired by French Impressionists wishing to paint in “natural light” capturing its nuances, described the technique as: “en plein air, “in the open air.”

Painting by Winslow Homer, 1868The above painting captures the essence of plein air.  Today we take the ability to paint outdoors for granted, thinking nothing of the difficulties experienced by the early innovators.  We are spoiled for choice when amassing equipment.

Locally, Laguna Beach is a veritable hot bed of plein air painting and a haven for artists of all ilks.I just completed designing and building a Light Weight – Easy to use set-up using a commercial camera Tripod as a base.   Below, pictures of similar items from Amazon .. $116 for the box .. ouch

Here is the set-up I made from material in the workshop: Box/Pallett and Adjustable Easel with Cam Buttons and Quick release mounting plate