Plein air painting, a cherished art form, allows artists to capture the beauty of the natural world directly onto their canvases while immersed in the outdoor environment. To embark on your own plein air journey and create stunning works of art, you’ll need a set of essential supplies and tools. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore these must-have plein air painting supplies, ranging from oil paints to portable equipment.
Plein Air Painting Supplies
1. Oil Paints
Oil paints are the cornerstone of plein air painting, renowned for their rich colors and smooth textures. They provide artists with the means to translate the beauty of nature onto their canvases. When selecting oil paints, prioritize high-quality oil colors. These paints come in tubes and offer a vast array of hues that can be expertly mixed to achieve the desired shades for your outdoor masterpieces. Additionally, consider carrying an oil painting medium like Galkyd, which enhances paint flow and drying times, allowing you to work more efficiently.
2. Brushes
Paintbrushes are your artistic tools, enabling you to convey your vision onto the canvas. Different brush types and sizes allow for various textures and details in your artwork. To create your desired effects, invest in a diverse selection of paintbrushes. Proper care and cleaning of your artist brushes with a portable brush cleaner like a mini brush washer are essential to maintain their quality and extend their lifespan.
3. Easel and Palette Combo
An easel and palette combo serve as the heart of your outdoor studio, providing the necessary support and workspace for your plein air painting endeavors. This combination includes a sturdy painting stand and a mixing surface, ensuring that your canvas is at an ideal working height and providing a convenient area to mix and blend your oil colors effectively. Look for portable options that are easy to set up and transport, allowing you to paint comfortably in various outdoor settings.
4. Gamsol
Gamsol, an odorless mineral spirit, plays a pivotal role in plein air painting as a solvent for oil paint. It serves multiple functions, including thinning paint, cleaning brushes, and modifying the consistency of your colors. Being odorless, Gamsol doesn’t disrupt your outdoor painting experience or bother fellow artists sharing the plein air space.
5. Wet Painting Carrier
A wet painting carrier is your dedicated art canvas carrier, designed to transport your wet paintings without smudging or damaging them. This is especially valuable when you wish to showcase your work later or continue working on a piece at a different location. Ensuring the safety of your creations during transport is essential for preserving their quality.
6. Packing Light for Plein Air
Achieving mobility and efficiency is crucial for plein air painting. Traveling with minimal art supplies allows you to explore various outdoor settings and adapt to changing conditions effortlessly. Consider compact art materials and mobile painting equipment that won’t weigh you down during your outdoor adventures. Striking the right balance between having the essentials and maintaining agility is key.
7. Sketchbook
A sketchbook, often referred to as an artist’s notebook, serves as a versatile companion for plein air artists. It can be used for quick sketches, jotting down color notes, or planning your compositions. Having a reliable sketchbook on hand ensures that you can capture fleeting moments and ideas while painting outdoors, providing a valuable resource for future artwork.
Additional Plein Air Painting Supplies
In addition to the essential supplies mentioned above, there are several other items that can enhance your plein air painting experience:
8. Plein Air Box
A plein air box, designed specifically for outdoor artists, serves as a portable art box to organize and protect your painting supplies. It keeps your materials well-organized and easily accessible while you work en plein air. Look for options with compartments and slots for brushes, paints, and other tools to keep everything in order.
9. Mini Palette Cups
Mini palette cups are small containers designed to hold and store paint. They provide a convenient and secure way to keep your oil colors fresh and easily accessible during your outdoor painting sessions. These compact containers are a practical addition to your plein air toolkit.
10. Brush Holder
A tripod brush holder is a practical tool for organizing your paintbrushes during outdoor painting sessions. It keeps your brushes within reach, preventing them from getting dirty or damaged. This simple yet effective accessory ensures that your brushes are always ready for use.
11. Tripod
A tripod, commonly associated with camera stands, can also serve as a sturdy support for your canvas or easel during plein air painting. It provides stability, ensuring that your artwork remains secure, even in windy outdoor conditions. A versatile tripod can be a valuable addition to your plein air setup.
12. Gessobord
Gessobord is a primed canvas panel that provides a stable and textured surface for your oil paintings. It is a popular choice among plein air artists for its durability and ease of use. The textured surface of Gessobord allows for a variety of painting techniques and effects, enhancing your creative possibilities.
13. Palette Knife
A palette knife is a versatile tool in plein air painting. It serves multiple purposes, including mixing paint, applying paint to the canvas, and creating various textures and effects. With a palette knife, you can achieve unique and expressive results in your outdoor artwork.
14. Camera
While not a traditional art supply, a camera can be a valuable tool for plein air artists. It allows you to capture reference photos of your outdoor surroundings, document your plein air painting process, and share your artwork online. Including a camera in your plein air gear can help you preserve memories and share your artistic journey with others.
In conclusion, plein air painting is a deeply rewarding and immersive artistic practice that allows you to connect with nature while creating beautiful artworks. To make the most of your outdoor painting experiences, ensure you have the essential plein air painting supplies mentioned above, as well as any additional items that align with your artistic style and preferences. With the right tools and equipment at your disposal, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace the beauty of the natural world and translate it onto your canvas with finesse and creativity. Happy plein air painting!