Nature Calling- Have Fun with Watercolours Painting Plein-Air

 

Painting en plein air, or outdoors, is a captivating and liberating experience for artists. The play of natural light, the beauty of the surroundings, and the immediate connection with the environment can result in truly inspired artwork. While oil and acrylic painters are often associated with this practice, watercolour enthusiasts can also benefit from taking their art outdoors. It is not that you pick up your watercolour set, a paper, and your favourite Escoda Reserva Kolinsky Tajmyr Sable brushes and venture out. You need careful planning so that you have an enjoyable experience.

 

Choose the Right Supplies

When painting en plein air, mobility is key. Always choose a lightweight and compact set of watercolour supplies that are easy to carry. Here is a basic checklist of essential supplies-

 

Portable Easel or Board- A sturdy yet portable easel or a drawing board will provide a stable surface for your watercolour paper.

 

Watercolour Paper and Sketchbook- Choose a watercolour paper that is suitable for outdoor conditions.

 

Watercolour Paints- Use a limited palette of colours to simplify your choices. Half-pans or travel-sized tubes are convenient for outdoor painting.

 

Water Containers- Carry small, spill-proof containers for clean and dirty water. Consider collapsible water containers for convenience.

 

Brushes-  Pack different brushes, like Dynasty Black Gold Short HandleBrushes Open Stock or Escoda Reserva Kolinsky Tajmyr Sable brushes. You should have a round brush for details, a flat brush for washes, and a small mop brush for blending. You can carry the Escoda Joseph Zbukvic Watercolour set, that will meet all your precision needs.

 

Palette- Use a lightweight, airtight palette that allows you to mix and store your colours easily. Carry a palette knife for scraping or lifting paint.

 

Folding Chair or Stool- A comfortable seat can make a significant difference during longer painting sessions.

             

Select the Right Location

Choosing the right location is crucial for a successful outdoor watercolour session. You should keep in mind the following factors-

 

Lighting- The quality of light changes throughout the day. Early morning and late afternoon offer warm, soft light, while midday can create harsh shadows.

 

Choosing the right Subject-  Opt for scenes that inspire you, whether it's landscapes, seascapes, architecture, or urban scenes. Choose something you cannot work with, in your studio.

 

Accessibility- Ensure that your chosen location is easily accessible and allows you to set up comfortably with a clear view of your subject.

 

Weather Conditions- Check the weather forecast. While some artists enjoy painting in challenging conditions, it is essential to be prepared for rain, wind, or intense sunlight.

 

Understanding Light and Shadows

Observing and understanding how light interacts with your surroundings is important for successful plein-air watercolour painting. You should note the direction and intensity of light, as well as the resulting shadows, these will keep changing because of-

 

The Time of Day- The position of the sun will affect the colours and shadows in your scene. Morning and evening lights create longer shadows and warmer tones.

 

Shadows- Observe how shadows fall on different surfaces and objects. Shadows will add depth and dimension to your painting.

 

Reflections- Watercolour is particularly effective in capturing reflections. Use wet-on-wet techniques to depict reflective surfaces like water or glass.

 

Adapt to Changing Conditions

Weather and lighting conditions can change rapidly when painting outdoors. Be prepared to adapt and embrace the spontaneity of the moment: Be ready to adjust your colour choices based on changing lighting conditions by keeping a limited palette. Work swiftly to capture the moving elements like clouds or flowing water. Most importantly, just be spontaneous and don't be afraid of imperfections. Welcome the unplanned effects and "happy accidents". These can often lead to unexpected and beautiful results.

 

Last but not least outdoor painting is all about immersing yourself in the environment and capturing the moment. Pack light, be prepared, and aim to paint as often as possible. Regular practice outdoors will improve your observational skills and deepen your connection with nature. Painting outdoors with watercolours is a delightful and rewarding experience that will connect you with the beauty of nature. So, just order supplies like Escoda Reserva Kolinsky Tajmyr Sable brushes, watercolours, and other essentials from  King’s Framing And Art Gallery which has an extensive collection of quality supplies, and venture outdoors to let the natural world become your canvas.