An Artist's Guide to Plein Air Painting Oct. 2015 | Page 12

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THESE ARE ITEMS THAT ARE ALSO IMPORTANT:

 Camera, viewfinder, value scale. They do help with composing a
scene and the value scale can help with light and dark color
relationships.
 Sketch book. Making value studies and other preparatory drawings
is a good idea and can make all the difference. If time makes this
impractical then get on with painting, but you take your chances.
 Comfort items: Hats, umbrellas, sunscreen, raincoats, spare jersey,
food, water, folding chair, cell phone.
SAFETY:

Basic safety issues need to consider. Where you paint may be
unsafe due to wildlife (whether on four or two legs). Environmental
issues, extreme weather and any other issues that may also
present themselves. Take precautions. Tell friends where you are
going to paint and make sure you have a backup plan. Take a
painting buddy along.

PAINTING

The above lists seem like a big task, but most of it is getting the items
that you already have organised into a system. After a few times out
you will have this system working. For example I have a panel carrier
and pochade box in my vehicle so it is possible to stop and paint. At
least grabbing the missing items and dashing off to a nearby paint
spot need not take more than a half hour.

An Artist’s Guide to Plein Air Painting

Malcolm Dewey