Painting outdoors, also plein air painting —a French term for painting outdoors—has been considered a source of immediate inspiration since the Impressionist era. This movement marked the dawn of open-air painting and profoundly changed art history. Nature offers diverse motifs, changing lighting moods, and a color palette that no studio can replace.
Artists like Claude Monet in Giverny or Caspar David Friedrich on the Baltic coast used this freedom to capture impressions directly. Today, contemporary painters and festivals like the Usedom Plein Air Festival up this tradition. Whether in parks, on riverbanks, or in fields – every setting offers new possibilities for expression. Thus, painting outdoors remains a vibrant and contemporary practice. The following sections provide fascinating tips for amateur painters who desire a special atmosphere.
Plein-air painter finds inspiration in the open air. Photo: Mircea Iancu, via Pixabay
Practical helpers – the bag for on the go
A practical canvas bag is an indispensable companion for outdoor artists, offering organization and flexibility. It not only offers ample space for creative tools, but also the flexibility needed to work spontaneously. Brushes, small tubes of oil paint, watercolor boxes, or notebooks can be neatly stored inside – everything is within easy reach without having to search for long.
A low weight is especially important when traveling, so that carrying it over long distances isn't a burden. At the same time, the bag should be robust: tear-resistant materials, weather-resistant surfaces, and sturdy seams ensure that it withstands wind and weather as well as repeated use.
Those who prefer a minimalist look can opt for foldable models made of cotton or linen – these are easy to store and take with them when needed.Thoughtful interior dividers or small additional compartments also make it easy to quickly find small items like erasers, sharpeners, or charcoal.
Where can amateur artists find the right place to paint?
The painting location decisively influences the mood and expressiveness of a work. A quiet park like Munich's English Garden conveys serenity and soft color gradients. In contrast, bustling squares like Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt create dynamism and contrast.
Rural landscapes like the Lüneburg Heath or the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris bring peace and clarity to the image through their vastness. Places like New York's Central Park or Dresden's Elbe meadows offer charming motifs.
Those who don't feel like taking long walks can also be creative in their own garden. By clearly dividing it into different zones—such as a quiet corner for painting, a space for exercise , or a social area for barbecues—create an inspiring space with a variety of uses. The painting zone, in particular, benefits from targeted planting , shady spots, and a tranquil atmosphere. This allows art to be integrated into everyday life in a relaxed manner without leaving the comfort of your own home.
Essential: Consider light and weather conditions
Natural light determines the color effect and mood of every plein air painting. A cool blue often prevails in the morning, harsh shadows appear at midday, and warm orange tones dominate in the evening. Clouds, fog, or rain further alter the atmosphere and enable multifaceted pictorial effects.
Artists like William Turner deliberately exploited weather phenomena to create dramatic effects. Diffuse light—softly scattered, without harsh shadows—creates smooth transitions, while direct sunlight enhances contrasts. In addition to the artistic effects, changing conditions also require practical preparation. Weatherproof sketchbooks remain usable even in damp conditions. Parasols or hats protect against bright light. By considering these factors, you can capture moods and create authentic works when painting outdoors.
Creative freedom in the open air: That's why many are so fascinated by outdoor painting
Painting outdoors opens up a special form of artistic freedom. Without spatial constraints, a direct dialogue with the surroundings arises. Nature, light, and sounds – all of this provides stimuli that directly influence one's expression.
Artists like Banksy, who have made a name for themselves in the scene , have experienced this creative freedom as the driving force behind their work. Digital communities, such as Instagram hashtags like #pleinairpainting or #urbansketchers , also contribute to its relevance and connect digital and analogue.
The experience of living creativity through both the location and the canvas further enhances the expressiveness. This openness will certainly make painting outdoors a vibrant practice in the future.
Owner and managing director of Kunstplaza . Publicist, editor and passionate blogger in the field of art, design and creativity since 2011. Successful conclusion in web design as part of a university degree (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expression painting and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through many years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.
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