Painting outside, known as painting en plein air, is a wonderful way to capture the beauty of nature. If you have a garden at home, especially one with colorful flowers, you have the perfect setting for this type of painting.
To start, find a good spot in your garden where you can see the flowers clearly. Set up your easel and take a few moments to observe your subject. Notice how the sunlight hits the petals and leaves. This will help you understand where the light and shadows fall. Painting outdoors allows you to capture the movement and life that a traditional still life lacks.
When you begin painting, don’t worry about getting every tiny detail right. Focus on the overall look of the flowers. Start with broad strokes to paint the background and the leaves. Then, slowly add more colors and details. Pay special attention to the shape of the flower’s center and how the petals spread out.
I chose to paint coneflowers because of their beautifully bright petals and unique, cone-shaped centers. I began with a quick sketch of the composition using an earth red and then started sculpting the shapes of light and shadow. After that, I added thin washes of color, slowly building dimension. As you can see, this is the stage I am still working on.
Painting en plein air is not just about making a picture. It’s also about enjoying the fresh air and the beauty of your garden. Each brushstroke helps you appreciate the small, beautiful moments in nature. Plus, it’s a great way to relax and connect with the outdoors right at home.