Have you ever wanted to try plein air drawing but you weren’t sure where to start? For many people, plein air sketching or painting can feel extremely daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. A plein air can be a very fun and accessible way to create art while taking a close look at the world around you.
What is “plein air” drawing?
The word “plein air” comes from the French phrase meaning “in the open air”. It typically denotes painting or drawing a landscape outdoors and in the elements. It was popularized by impressionist painters, who strived to create paintings that were a reflection of the light and atmosphere around them.
Not sure where to start with practicing? Here are my tips for making plein air drawing a little easier!
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission.
9 Tips for plein air drawing
1. Pick a great location
The great thing about plein air drawing is that you can try it out pretty much anywhere. Imagine some of the places around you that you’d like to spend a little more time at. Alternatively, you might just want to squeeze a sketch in somewhere that you go to regularly.
Here are a few locations to try out:
- Park – pick a bench and find your scene
- Coffee shop – lots of coffee shops have outdoor seating
- Beach – sun, sand, and waves
- Trail – find inspiration among the trees
2. Consider the time of day
The time of day is a big consideration because you’ll want to be comfortable. During the summer, you might want to shoot for an earlier start time so that you don’t have the sun and heat beating down on you. During the winter, you might welcome the sunlight of mid afternoon drawing session.
The reality is that drawing outdoors means that you are at mercy of the elements. Plan and dress accordingly! You might need to pack an umbrella or some sunglasses.
3. Bring your tools
Make sure that you have everything that you need before you settle in to draw. Here is a list of everything that I bring with me when I’m practicing plein air sketching.
- Small sketchbook – I use the Moleskine Watercolor album and I love the size. I recommend getting a sketchbook that can easily be stored away in a purse or tote bag when you’re on the go. You never know when inspiration will strike!
- Pens and pencils (I keep them all in a small pencil case) – the Sakura Micron Pigma pens are my favorite because they don’t smudge or bleed when you add watercolor. The pack below is a great way to experiment with different thicknesses of pen so that you know what you like.
- Watercolor Set – I love bringing a watercolor kit so that I can easily add color to my drawings. The Sakura Koi Pocket Field Sketch Kit is an excellent choice for a beginner. It’s reasonably priced, highly pigmented, and it comes with a refillable watercolor brush that is perfect for on-the-go painting.
- Viewfinder – last week I shared a post on how to make your own viewfinder. A viewfinder is a great tool that you can use to visually frame your scene before you draw or paint. If you prefer to buy one, this adjustable one is also a great option.
- Kneaded eraser – this is great to have on-hand if you use pencil to outline your drawing. A kneaded eraser will gently lift your pencil marks without the too much effort.
4. Be prepared to be approached!
This might take some getting used to, but if you are drawing outdoors, prepare to be approached by strangers. It’s actually become one of my favorite things about plein air drawing!
People are always curious about anyone making art in public. They will ask you about your art, tell you about their own art, and even give you unsolicited advice. If you’re open to it, I think it’s always fun to engage with other people and encourage them to also get out and make their own work.
One time when I was in Vegas, I brought my sketchbook down to the lounge pool to get a quick sketch while my husband was gambling. While I was sketching, a woman approached me and told me that she also used to draw but hadn’t tried again in over 8 years. She thanked me for inspiring her to try again.
5. Let go of expectations
When you’re drawing in a less structured setting, some things are bound to go wrong. It might be windy or there might be distracting construction in the background. What matters more is that you’re getting out there and practicing your art.
It’s also okay to make something that feels experimental or out of your comfort zone. Plein air drawing is a great opportunity to try something different and let go of your normal judgements.
6. Plan your composition
As I mentioned earlier, a viewfinder is a great tool to use if you’re having trouble deciding where your composition should begin and end. When you’re out in a location, your brain can easily get distracted and it can be hard to decide what the “relevant” details are.
As you plan your composition, pay attention to the values, lines, and shadows within your environment.
7. Fake it till you make it!
Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s hard to let go of the fear of judgement. Whether it comes from a stranger, a friend, or even yourself, harsh judgement can kill an idea before it even gets started. Plein air drawing invites you to let go of that fear and express yourself in a new setting.
Keep in mind that everyone has to start somewhere. I used to hate when strangers asked to see what I was drawing, but now I don’t mind at all.
8. Bring a friend
When you’re not feeling motivated, an accountability partner can get you out of a rut. Plan an art date with a friend and bring them along on a plein air adventure. Even if they’re not as into drawing, they might take the opportunity to write or work on a different project.
9. Take advantage of extra time
Waiting for a friend? Stuck with a delayed flight? Commuting on a train? These are all blessings in disguise. Take advantage of any block of time you have and draw on whatever you have available. Not every sketch needs to be in a sketchbook. Sometimes it’s good to just have a little creative break.
What are you waiting for?
Now that you have some great tips for plein air drawing, it’s time to start! Make sure to tag us on social media if you get inspired.
