One of the most popular oil painting classes involves plein-air painting. This is a traditional style of painting that is done outdoors, in the midst of nature for maximum inspiration. However, there are some challenges with plein-air painting that must be considered to get the most out of it. Here are 5 such challenges that must be avoided or minimized for success.
While it might seem obvious, rough weather is the enemy of plein-air painting. Avoiding rain is obvious, but you must also watch out for windy conditions or extreme heat as they can all impact your result.
Simplicity is the friend of plein-air paintings. So when opting for these drawing classes, try to avoid a scenery where too much is going on. While it might be stunning to look at, it can become overwhelming to capture it on the easel, especially for beginners.
While photos are great for a rough reference, imitating them will create a painting that is rather flat and uninspiring. Capturing the scenic beauty on site is an important pre-requisite of plein-air painting, and to achieve this, it is best to not rely too much on photos.
If it is too sunny, it can also create problems during a plein-air class. The heat can cause the paint to dry too quickly or cause discomfort while you work on your art. You might wear a hat or glasses to offset the heat, but this can also impede your ability to assess colors accurately.
Unless you are fairly comfortable with your skills, don’t go for a large canvas when practicing plein-air, as it can quickly become overwhelming to complete your artwork in a limited time.
To learn the right tips and tricks to nail your first plein-air painting, reach out to us at VR School of Art today. A leading art school offering oil painting classes and drawing classes in North York, we can help you hone your artistic talent. For more details, contact us at 647-894-7706 today.