Essential Plein Air

Essential Plein Air with Keith Gunderson, will provide students with a concise overview of the fundamentals and methodology behind Plein Air landscape painting. Through field sketches and critique, Keith will demonstrate how drawing and composition provides a framework for the application of paint which the artist applies directly to the canvas from direct observation. Instead of making a drawing and then “filling in” the drawing with paint, the artist learns to apply layers of wet paint in sequence and “draws” with brushstrokes and textural techniques to create the realistic effect. It is this alla prima or “in the wet” technique that compels the viewer to engage with the painting. Furthermore, students will learn how color and brushwork are orchestrated for effect and how plein air painting has the potential for great personal expression, beyond imitation alone.

This workshop will cover such topics as, layering, sky progressions, composition, atmospheric perspective, the prismatic palette, simultaneous contrast, reflections, tree anatomy and architecture. Working from reference or from field sketches, the workshop participants will create schematic sketches which will be either enlarged or elaborated on. By carefully orchestrating compositional trajectories and visualizing the topological stage, it’s possible for the artist to imbue their studio conjured paintings with the authenticity of the sketch executed outside. Reference and sketches are provided by the students for their individual project focus.

Saturday & Sunday, October 3 and 4, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Studio 1