(This is #3 of a 4 part series.)
A Brief History of Plein Air Painting
By the mid 1800s, with photography becoming mainstream, many artists used photographic techniques to produce (realistic) paintings.
The Plein Air Movement, which was linked to the Impressionist Movement, was in part a reaction against the limited, mechanical nature of images produced by the camera.
Also, the Impressionists had a particular fascination with color (which photography was not yet able to reproduce.)
With a bent toward romanticism, Impressionist artists who painted en plein air sought to put the artist (back) in contact with Nature through direct observation.
Plein air painting gained popularity during late 1800s and early 1900s with hot-spots in Europe and the United States (with both East Coast and West Coast schools.)
In contrast to studio paintings, Plein Air paintings tend to be more direct and vibrant, with energetic brush strokes.
The changing light and scenery often results in artwork that is gestural and impressionistic.
Nolichucky River Gorge
Goat Barn at Highland Lake
Warren Wilson Farm
If you haven’t already, I invite you to join my “Collector’s Circle” and get a behind-the-scenes look into my artist’s journey.
I hope you enjoy!
As always I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to comment below.