En Plein Aire -
Jennifer Cruden
Having a passion for painting with oils, both in the studio, as well as the challenge of painting outdoors on location, plein air. There is something very different about painting directly within the landscape.
The changing light, wind, atmosphere and movement of the day all become part of the painting.
What is 'en plein aire'? Plein air is a French term, meaning in the open air. Often used to describe the act of painting outdoors - in the open air.
Loving nature and the animals and wildlife around us. Making a special effort to paint at locations away from populated areas, where enjoyment is had, undisturbed, with the sound of waves and nature.
Enjoying the time to be out with nature, birds singing and water lapping. A divine lifestyle. Not for everyone, due to weather, bugs, sand, wind, heat, people and the list goes on. Not for everyone, as difficult when startomg out with this way of painting. However, once tried and persevered, then this is something which will bring peace to those who do go out and enjoy painting freely in the open air.
Getting away from the stress of everyday life, enjoying the wonderful world we live in, and at the same time doing what one enjoys - painting - who could ask for more?
Visiting new places, traveling overseas, painting and making new lifelong friends - what life could be more enjoyable? This is the joy of painting plein air.
Image left: Near Glenorchy, South Island, NZ.
Note: Below have been painted on location. On some, two trips have been made in order for me to complete an artwork. Others could be finished with more detail/completion added, however, these have been left, in order to show the quickness needed of undertaking painting 'en plein air' with a changing light.