Indira Cariappa

Pottstown, Pennsylvania

I started painting plein air about ten years ago on a fine spring day. I’m a nature lover and I get my inspiration to paint from the beauty of nature. I could not resist the call of nature on that fine spring day ten years ago and I started painting plein air since that day.

Watercolor artists Rachel Collins, who taught me the basics of watercolor painting and Michael Adams who encouraged me and made me believe in myself are two artist teachers who have helped me become the artist I am today.

Once when I was painting at Valley Forge a sudden gust of wind blew away my painting and I ran behind it for quite a distance before I could rescue my painting. That painting session came to an abrupt end. While painting Plein air, there are some surprises or adventures that happen. These are the things that make it so interesting and challenging at the same time.

I have painted at Valley Forge National park, Brandywine River Museum, Andrew Wyeth Studio and the Kuerner Farm, Sugartown in Malvern, John James Audubon, Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, on the banks of the Schuylkill River, West Reading and many other places.

Plein Air Brandywine Valley is a very well organized and prestigious Plein Air event happening in my area. I was thrilled and honored to know that I have been juried in this year. The joy of painting outdoors, the challenge and adventure (especially for a watercolor artist) is what draws me to painting Plein air.

Once while I was painting at a Pleinair event, I was about to finish up, when a little girl stopped by to watch me paint. She saw that I was painting the location and asked if she can be put in my painting. Since I was painting with watercolors and was almost finishing up, it was not possible to put her into my composition. I could see that she was very disappointed when I said I could not make her a part of my painting. So instead, I offered to paint a picture of her and send it to her by mail. Which I did. Her mother called me to say how excited and happy she was to see her painted picture. This made me realize that the reason I paint is to spread happiness. This is my way of making the world better, to share my point of view, the beauty I see with everybody around me.

Tamara Hutchinson

Wilmington, DE

My interest in plein air painting began after my Mother passed away. I've always had a desire to paint and have taken a variety of art classes throughout my life. Having spent most of my childhood in the woods of Washington State, painting in the outdoors seemed like a natural place to begin. My skills as a painter have developed by reading books, taking classes, visiting museums and painting. I have learned more from my failures, also known as learning.

One of my first Plein air painting experiences took place on the Hudson River. I was painting a coastal scene near a pier on the Hudson River where a tragedy had recently occurred. A few of the people walking along the pier stopped to talk to me about my painting and their conversations went on to talk about the poor souls that had lost their lives recently on that same pier. It was a very moving and healing experience to talk with these strangers about art, beauty, life and death. Since that day I have been amazed at the variety of conversations that I experience while painting Plein Air. These moments provide me with a never-ending rejuvenation of my faith in the human spirit.

I have been fortunate to paint in my home state of Washington on several occasions. This summer I participated in the North Lake Tahoe Plein Air. Recently I was able to paint at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. I’ve painted in Scotland, Antigua, and several US states. I am looking forward to painting in Germany and Hungary this fall. Truthfully, I could spend a lifetime painting in my backyard in Wilmington. Painting outdoors is the best way to see the true colors of an object and how light influences those colors. The painting options in nature are limitless.

Being in the presence of accomplished and talented artists in these amazing and historic locations during the Plein Air Brandywine is a great honor for me. I am looking forward to painting the beauty of the Brandywine Valley, connecting with my fellow artists and representing the Children’s Beach House. It is nice to know that there is a place for children with challenges to go, where they can be nurtured in a safe and comforting environment.

Ann Schaefer

Bethesda, MD

I enjoyed a plein air watercolor class decades ago when I was studying Fine Arts at George Washington University, and continued doing watercolors outdoors during weekends and vacations while I pursued a career in environmental programs for the Federal Government. When I took an early retirement from that job, I couldn’t wait to throw myself into outdoor painting. I painted with other artists in Maryland and participated in workshops where I could combine my enjoyment of travel with my love of painting, exploring other mediums, and learning from some excellent teachers. I use oil mostly now, as it allows me to paint quickly and add highlights as the sun shifts across a landscape. Having devoted so many years to environmental protection, it is rewarding to me to capture in paintings the beauty of the world around me, hoping that art will help more people appreciate how precious and fragile it is.

Seeing how a group of talented painters creates a body of work that reflects a particular place and time is so fascinating, and inspiring has helped me develop as an artist. Workshops led by artists whose work I admire, and spending time at galleries and museums helps me grow, too.

Changing weather conditions always present a challenge, and sometimes my equipment fails to protect work in progress. I remember one day when I was standing in the middle of a field, painting an old farm, using subtle earth colors, and delicate pastel sky. Just as I was stepping back to photograph my finished painting, a strong gust of wind came up, and blew my easel over; the painting fell face down into the palette, picking up great blobs of cadmium red and a strong purple. I set everything up again and scraped much of the canvas with a palette knife. The painting I ended up with had much more energy and intriguing layers of paint. It was still the same farm, but stronger and more colorful. I saved a series of photographs of the disaster, and recovery as it developed. It reminds me to value freshness, and flexibility, interacting with forces of nature.

I’ve painted in so many places…each plein air painting brings back a strong memory. In 2002 when I retired from my desk job, I was thrilled to be invited to join a friend to paint in Tuscany. We had been students at the High School of Music and Art in NYC and have kept in touch over the years. She was teaching art in Massachusetts and had won a summer grant to paint and gather ideas for her students. We painted in watercolor in lovely hill towns and gave each other a painting at the end of our trip. I have her painting, looking south from a hilltop, and mine, looking north from the same spot, hanging together in my living room. Since then I have enjoyed other painting trips to Italy and elsewhere in Europe—such as Barcelona, Mallorca, Santorini, Ireland, Provence and Burgundy. Lately, my family circumstances have kept me closer to home, and I love going back year after year to familiar places in Maryland like Ellicott City, Ocean City, Easton, Snow Hill, Chestertown, and Crisfield. My gallery is in Frederick, MD, where the historic district, and mountain foothills and farms of Frederick County give me an endless variety of inspiring subjects.

Painting outdoors with other artists is stimulating and inspiring—watching light wash across a landscape, and capturing an eye-catching moment is exciting. I have been hearing about PABV from other artists but haven’t been able to apply until this year. Last year I visited the end of week show at Winterthur and was very impressed with the work my friends and others had done.

The Brandywine Valley is a beautiful place that has inspired artists over centuries, and the Children’s Beach House is a worthy cause. I am looking forward to being part of it this year!

Lisa Prinzo

Honey Brook, PA

I have been aware of plein air painting from a young age, because I have always been fascinated by the French Impressionists, and their preference to paint outdoors, to capture natural light.

I had tried over the years to paint outside with watercolors but found it a struggle. Since my switch to oils, I have done much more painting from life - still lifes and en plein air. My first event was PABV in 2013, and I was hooked!

The increased use of oils as my medium, often painting from life, has helped me develop as a painter, tremendously. I concentrate on composition and values to a greater extent. I have also “loosened up,” choosing which details should be important in each piece, and which should be eliminated. My study with artist Elise Phillips has helped a great deal.

My first plein air nocturne experience was with PABV. I had painted many nocturnes as studio paintings, but never en plein air. I was excited to give it a try but did not think the details through. I had no light source for my palette, so had to resort to my phone’s flashlight to illuminate my painting and palette!

Another fun thing happened the second year I participated in PABV. I was painting the little pump house at Winterthur, and halfway through, noticed an artist behind me. I apologized for blocking her view, but she said she was seeing just fine. As we loaded our paint bags into the Winterthur shuttle at the end of the day, I realized she was painting the same scene, but with me in it, painting in the foreground!

I loved painting on Keurner Farm. To realize that Andrew Wyeth spent so much time there is exciting to me. I have enjoyed painting in Chesapeake City a number of times, and at several wineries. I think beauty can be found anywhere!

I feel at home when I’m painting outside, and I love the constant challenges it presents. I’m in it for the challenge and experience. It is always a great week!

I’ve loved painting in the PABV event. The Brandywine Valley is full of beautiful areas to paint. The PABV staff is warm and friendly, and really looks after the artists. The Janssen’s lunches are wonderful!!

Carol Mangano

Elkton, Maryland

My first outdoor painting experiences began at the Wallingford Art Center (Community Arts Center, Pa). A group of artists, including (Aunt) Augusta Feld and Fay Freeman painted in the glen, enjoying tea and sandwiches.

I trailed along with my paints and brushes, as the professional artists, reminiscent of Monet, Picasso, Cassatt, Matisse, set up their canvases in the studio or outside on the grounds of the Wallingford Manor. I witnessed the process of critique, fellowship, artistic talk, and humor, that started the foundation of the interest and my placement in the art world.

My first college painting experience had me in a whirl wind! St. Peter & Paul’s Cathedral, Center City, Philadelphia, was an overwhelming task of drawing the monumental perspective assignment! I sat on the steps with charcoal and tackled the larger than life size scale. The breeze, sunlight, distant traffic, water fountains, and blue sky incorporated the elements and principles of design: rhythm, movement, pattern, directional lines, and reflections. All the distractions and observations that had come to life, developed a new artistic approach that can only be observed in a view without boundaries.

Local and regional areas I’ve painted include: Chester County farms, Brandywine Conservancy properties, Delaware County farmer’s markets: Bryn Mawr, Media, and Swarthmore, Delaware beaches, Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Bastille Day at Media Festival, Brandywine Battle Field, Brandywine River Museum, Land Art Events: Community Days, Farm to Table Plein Air, The Harvest Gathering, Chestertown, MD, and a few paintings in Arles, France.

Brandywine is my stomping and painting grounds! It was a way of life, growing up, visiting the sites and learning about the beauty, history, and art during my family’s Sunday drives. Naturally, the Brandywine School artists and painting styles were intriguing to me. Brandywine has always been part of my artistic life in many ways. As a member of Longwood Garden’s Curriculum Committee for Youth Education, opportunities provided educational fieldtrips with my middle school students, who developed appreciation of horticultural and art-related careers. We painted outside, together. Their plein air drawing and photography continued with trips to Schoonover Studios, Brandywine River & Delaware Art Museums.

Since January, I’ve created more than 20 plein air paintings and it is a thrill to be a new member of the Howard Pyle Studio! Barbara Moore Fine Art Gallery, Chadds Ford, will feature my work on October 23 – November 6.

To be part of an event showcasing the importance of art and education is wonderful! The schedule will introduce new sites. Winterthur is another favorite museum. Thank you for setting up the venue for a unique chance to paint at Winterthur.

Tami Louco

Morris Plains, NJ

My high school art teacher taught us about the Impressionist artists and their practice of plein air painting. She also took us outside to paint an alley, so I have known about plein air painting all my adult life but have painted outdoors regularly for the last decade.

Having an extensive education in the arts provided a great knowledge base. I took many art history and humanities classes and majored in both Studio Art and English Literature. I really didn’t like the one design class that was 100% perspective drawing, but it sure has come in handy when painting buildings. But real development comes from doing, not just studying: painting from life, attending a weekly figure group, first drawing, then painting the figure alla prima, observing others paint, visiting museums and trying to understand how previous artists built their paintings, and mostly just more and more hours spent engaging with brush and palette knife, trying all sorts of subject matter with all sorts of media.

I love being outdoors, feeling the wind (not too much) and the sun (not too hot), and some friendly interaction (but not an hour-long monologue). Talking to children is the most fun. I always ask if they paint too and they have always said yes. One summer evening I was painting at the bottom of a hill and a grade school boy came whizzing down the hill on his bike, asked what I was doing and why “because I want to” and gladly accepted when I offered him a small canvas, brush and extra palette. He made his own painting and rode off quickly when his mom called him home, leaving the painting behind.

I have always tried to apply to painting the advice would-be authors are given write - what you know. I have always painted my gardens and views near my homes, as well as town scenes (and I have lived in hilly areas of Western Pa, Eastern PA, Massachusetts and now New Jersey.) And since it is challenging to paint geographic areas that are not as familiar, I have also painted on the Eastern Shore (Delmarva Peninsula), the Adirondacks, along the Appalachian Trail, and coastal Maine. Capturing the feel of a place, the relationship of light and shadow is best done en plein air. I lived and worked in Chester County Pennsylvania years ago and would love to come back to paint the beauty I experienced then.

Sarah Snyder-Dinsel

City and State: West Chester, Pa

I believe this year, 2019, is my 5th year painting in Plein Air Brandywine Valley!

Observing how fellow painters tackle changing light and subject matter has helped me develop as a painter. Everyone's approach is different and can often give me a new perspective on how to approach these things in my own painting

Positive and not so positive events while painting include experiencing great sadness when the day's light begins to fade and I know I have not captured in my painting the essence of what I am looking at.

I have painted too many Farms to remember! These are my favorite places to paint, as I love to paint the animals!

I paint Plein Air because it forces me out of my comfort zone. It forces me to make quicker decisions concerning my paintings, knowing that time is a critical factor.

One of my greatest achievements was receiving a merit award for one of my farm paintings chosen by a representative of Plein Air Magazine, at Plein Air Brandywine Valley 2017.

Judith Nentwig

Lower Gwynedd, PA

When I started taking painting classes at a local art center six years ago, I was introduced to plein air painting. Although I was just starting to gain my painting skills I have always enjoyed being outside and knew then that I wanted to work towards plein air painting.

Developing as a painter can take many paths but I have found that putting in the brush time, and I mean more hours then I could have ever anticipated, along with quality instruction have helped my work develop.

I plein air paint primarily in Pennsylvania’s Chester and Bucks counties but I have had the opportunity to paint in various locations through workshops and events including Cape Cod, San Diego and Santa Fe. Plein air painting with local groups of painters has been the most fulfilling part of what I do. The camaraderie and friendships are essential in what can sometimes be a very solitary career. Plein air painters are truly the friendliest people!

There are multiple reasons why I chose to apply to Plein Air Brandywine Valley. I find plein air painting very challenging and I am always looking for opportunities to paint in beautiful landscapes that I otherwise would not have access to.

Painting in Plein Air Brandywine Valley provides me with both the challenge and opportunity plus the venue to share my work with people who appreciate the fine art of painting.

Martha Pileggi

Milford, Delaware

I first decided I wanted to paint Plein air when I visited Easton during a Plein air event probably 10 years ago. I had been a watercolorist for most of my life and wanted to switch to oils. Watching the artists paint on site was amazing to me. The challenge of painting outside is so exciting, daunting and engrossing.

I have taken many workshops over the past years with many great painters who have inspired me to keep improving on my art. Most of these are local artists who excel in the oil painting medium and who's work I admire. I also read as many art books on past and present painters as possible. I also learn a lot from painters that I paint with on location. It's amazing to see how each will interpret a scene and what they choose to paint.

When first starting to paint outdoors I would go out in any weather, this included experiences in pouring rain where my easel filled with water or the panels were so wet the paint would not adhere to the surface. I have painted in 100 degree weather, I have had swarms of gnats decide to land on wet paint, mosquitoes attack in October, lightning approaching while I was under an umbrella (couldn't get to the car fast enough), groundhogs come up to me, herds of wild horses pass right by me while painting, and a flock of turkeys try to bite my tush. You never know what will happen. Ever.

I paint all over the Delmarva Peninsula which includes Maryland, Delaware and Virginia and I also paint Pennsylvania. My subjects include water (all kinds), beaches, marshes, farms, towns, animals. Last year I drove from Delaware to Arizona and painted every day on the way down and in beautiful Mesa, Arizona.

I grew up in center city Philadelphia, so I know the Brandywine valley very well. I love the stone barns and rolling green countryside that is why I wanted to paint the Brandywine Valley. My parents would take us for rides in the country on Sundays just to get out of the city.

To be able to paint with the best painters in the country is a real honor and I look forward to seeing their work.

I paint Plein Air almost exclusively and I belong to many painting groups so that I paint outside at least 4 days a week. I am noted for having the painting van that is equipped with all my painting and framing equipment.

Kathleen Gray Farthing

Alliance, Ohio

I first learned plein air painting when I noticed an old college friend posting frequent paintings online. We both had our own graphic design business and I wondered how he was able to find the time to paint so often. I contacted him and he gave me multiple resources to get started. That was about 8 years ago.

I am new to Plein Air Brandywine Valley and very excited to explore a new area. Some other artists I know are competing as well, and it’s always fun to meet up with them at different events.

As they say, you must put miles of canvas behind you to improve. I try to paint as often as I can. I think participating in plein air competitions has helped me immensely. Not only am I inspired by the other artists, the competitions give me uninterrupted time to paint. I have also taken multiple plein air workshops with well-known artists. I think each time, I have been able to absorb more information to help me paint better.

It’s not unusual, but like most plein air painters, I have dealt with insect invasions, extreme heat and extreme cold, monsoons, etc. One of the big differences in studio and plein air painting is sharing the process with the public. If you are in your studio, your painting can remain between you and the canvas until you are ready to reveal it. In plein air painting, there are constant interruptions with people wanting to chat. I think it is important to share what you are doing with the public, and present a good artist’s “face,” so I am always happy to talk to curious people. But it can take you out of your “zone” of concentration.

Other plein air mishaps: twice now, I have been visited by big, long snakes. The one kept his distance, but the other was a water snake who repeatedly swam out of the water towards me on the shore. To say I was distracted is an understatement.

Probably my very favorite thing about plein air painting is the opportunity to travel and paint. I just got back from a 2-week artist residency in the Olympic Peninsula, Washington. It was an artist’s heaven. I put 1400 miles on the rental car going from mountains, to rain forest to waterfalls and rocky shorelines to paint. Sometimes lugging my equipment for a 2-mile round trip. I completed 16 paintings, but wished I had another 2 weeks to paint! I have also participated in competitions in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Maryland, Nova Scotia and New York. The Plein Air Convention and Expos that I attended were in Tucson, Arizona and San Diego, CA. I’ve also taken my supplies with me on family vacations and have painted in Budapest, Vienna, Prague, Hawaii, St. John, Virgin Island, Sedona and Scottsdale.

I love painting en plein air. You see so much more when you paint on location, than you do when working from a photograph. While spending two to three hours painting in a location, you become immersed in the scene; becoming a part of it. You feel the sun or rain, deal with the insects, the noise or the quiet. You smell the ocean, or the city exhaust. It’s a total sensory experience.

Jill Glassman

Berlin, Maryland

I began painting plein air in 2017 when my sister-in-law, also an artist, was participating in Artist Paint Ocean City. She asked if I wanted to tag along and paint and it was an unmitigated disaster! I was painting in acrylic at the time and all my paint dried up almost immediately.

Painting everyday either plein air or in the studio has helped me develop further as a painter.

The most unusual situation I encountered was when I was painting one morning with the above-mentioned sister-in-law and another friend, we attracted an obviously intoxicated woman who proceeded to give my sister-in-law a thorough critique of her painting and what she would do to improve it. We couldn't get rid of her!

I've painted the gorgeous beaches and marshes of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and just recently returned from a painting trip to Umbria, Italy where we were painting the beautiful hill towns and mountain views - we even got the opportunity to paint the phenomenal Cascata Della Marmore which was also painted by Corot.

Painting from life and particularly plein air painting, teaches you to really see true color and values. I was visiting the Brandywine Museum in the spring of this year and really enjoyed the river setting, and the beautiful forested rolling hills - so different from the flat marshland where I live.

Norman Schmidt

Erial, New Jersey

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

Back in the 60’s I was an Illustrator for the United States Air Force in TAWC. Our mission was to reflect the use of how proposed R&D equipment would be beneficial. Because either the planes would be in the air or the equipment on the ground both clouds and terrain in different parts of the world became my passion because it was the only creative part that we had artistic liberty with in the picture.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

After 40 years as a creative director for NSCHMIDT Design Group, I decided about 9 years ago before I retired to start taking classes at the Studio Incamminate in Philadelphia. They are a very traditional Atelier formatted in the old master’s style.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

I was painting in a large field late October when suddenly I had 1000’s of little black nats sticking to my canvas. I could not figure out why. Here, I had just changed my plastic bag (that I threw my paper towels in) to a new bright yellow Shop Rite bag. Don’t ever think insects have bad eyesight. I never made that mistake again.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

My most memorable Plein Air painting is Orient Beach in St. Martins, a nude beach!

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

The Brandywine area is where my wife and I have foxed hunting on horse back for over 30 years. The history of artists and horsemen of this area are well known around the world. It’s one of our special places.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

The CBH and Brandywine Plein Air has a great group of people running the event and their fabulous lunches!!

Angela M Scully

Wayne, PA

I first learned of painting plein air as it seems to be part of the painting culture in this region.

I believe that being part of a community of painters is helpful. We talk, swap tips, on everything from materials, brushes, easels, etc. to painting locations. And, I also go to other artist's shows.

When painting outdoors, I have learned Never befriend the family dog because he will never leave you alone! This spring I was painting out on New Street and I threw the stick a few times and the dog kept retrieving it. I thought enough, so I stopped. I then started painting and after a while I turned around and I saw the dog had gathered pretty much all of the sticks in the yard and piled them up behind me. I nearly tripped on them!

I sometimes forget what a beautiful part of the world we live in. I reconnect to it every time I'm outside with my easel and brushes. I love being outside!

I recently retired as executive director of the Uptown Theater in West Chester. I would promise myself that when I retired, I would spend more time outside and painting helps me do that.

Lida Stifel

N Potomac, MD

I have been painting from nature since I was in high school and college, but after getting my degree in fine arts I painted many kinds of subjects including large animal paintings, murals especially figures. I became interested in the plein air movement in 1990 when I did a show of 40 paintings of the American Horticultural Society in Virginia. I also was influenced by the resurgence of painting from nature, plein air magazine and have entered many juried competitions.

Painting at Plein Air Brandywine Valley is a great venue and I like the camaraderie with the other artists.

Places I have painted include Washington, DC, and Mid-Atlantic areas, the northeast, California, the southwest, the American west, Florida, Caribbean Islands, England, Scotland, France, Italy, Sicily, Holland and South Africa!

I’ve experienced many adventures and mishaps in plein air painting, like when husband dropped my entire French easel and paints on the tube in London. The most interesting place I have painted is South Africa with Plein Air Magazine and went into the bush with a guide and painted at a watering hole with giraffes and elephants.

Megan Lawlor

North Wales, Pennsylvania

I’ve always been drawn to the pioneering paintings of the Barbizon School artists, Corot and Daubigny, the impressionistic maritime works of Eugene Boudin, the poetry and power of William Langson Lathrop, John Folinsbee and Gertrude Fiske, and the few Plein Air paintings by Austrian Richard Gerstl. I enrolled in a landscape painting class at PAFA and began doing my own work more earnestly when I participated in the Bucks County Plein Air 2016, my first Plein Air ’event’.

I’ve learned a lot from meeting and painting with other Plein Air painters in the field and observing the technical aspects…materials, equipment, etc., of how they go about their work. As for development as a painter, it’s been a more intuitive process. Having a strong color theory and classical drawing background, it was a matter of combining that knowledge and interpreting my physical response to nature in an expressive way, with paint, and just spending time, outdoors, painting whenever I can.

One of the most challenging situations for me was painting outdoors in February for the Paint Out Chadds Ford a few years ago. I had the flu, a fever, a sore throat and managed to paint only one of the two scheduled days. I painted at Kuerner Farm and when it got too cold and windy, I put all of my gear in the back of my car and painted from there. I was so cold and miserable that I painted as quickly as I could and guess what? The painting has so much wintery energy to it that I don’t think I will ever sell it! I love how it turned out!

I have painted in a beer garden in Freising, Germany, done preliminary drawings, for a series I’m working on, in Montmartre, and will be doing studies when I travel to Italy at the end of October, for the same series. But having grown up at the Jersey Shore I’m most compelled to paint, and most at home at the beaches and inlets of my hometown, Manasquan, New Jersey. The ocean is, far and away, my favorite subject.

I paint outdoors because I’m drawn to the visual poetry, atmosphere and physical movement of the particular environment I’m immersed in. Nature is a living thing and I can feel it, so I want to capture with my brushwork and use of color the sensory feeling of life there.

Brandywine Valley takes me back to my youth at the Jersey Shore when there was still an abundance of corn fields, fields of flowers, peach orchards, horse farms, wildlife, streams and waterways.

Plein Air Brandywine Valley is a wonderful opportunity to paint with originality; where there is such an abundance of visually fetching subject matter that an artist can avoid the prosaic. As much as I love painting outdoors, my first love has always been portrait and figurative work. Every person has an inner life, a spirit; revealed on their faces and in their physiques, people emote without even trying and it’s a wonderful thing to capture in drawing or painting. In addition to my own portrait work, I have recently enjoyed the challenge of Portrait Painting Competitions at Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia, and the Salmagundi Club in New York and plan to do it again, so stay tuned!

Lena Thynell

Port Matilda, PA

I started to paint “en plein air” about 5 years ago, after hearing about these types of events by fellow artist friends. What has helped me grow as a watercolor artist is of course to paint often and to paint in the open air.

The challenge of painting outdoors, when exposed to rain, sun and even snow, has helped me to fine-tune my technique. Every en plein air painting has a story to tell.

I remember standing by a beautiful creek, when I dropped the painting in the creek. It was not great for the watercolor painting, but it added something special to the finished result. I also remember an en plein air competition, when I stood on the sidewalk painting a few historical houses early one morning. Suddenly, a woman came out from a nearby house asking if she could buy the painting. I told her that it could be arranged through the organizers. However, the only thing was that I had just started to paint, so there was not much for her to see. She did not even ask how much it would cost. Well, the painting turned out to be a good one, and we agreed on a prize. I was a happy artist, and she was a happy collector.

I am drawn to landscapes, including old houses and old farms. I also enjoy painting boats and water. I love to paint early in the mornings or late afternoons, when the light is just about right. I get to explore beautiful and historical places at the various plein air events; for example, Hot Springs, in Bath County, Virginia, The Finger Lakes in the State of New York, The Adirondacks and Lake Placid in State of New York, Wayne and Cumberland Pennsylvania to name a few. When I go back to my native country of Sweden, I always try to spend a couple of days painting the beautiful coastline on the West Coast, including cliffs, beaches, boats, fishermen’s cottages and the ocean.

I paint plein air because it gives me endless inspiration. It is also a challenge for a watercolor artist due to unexpected effects from humidity, sun, rain, and wind. These effects are often reflected on the paper, as my paintings come alive in a way that is not possible in my studio. I also enjoy the camaraderie among the artists and the many friendships I have made. I am looking forward to participating in Plein Air Brandywine Valley and do what I can to contribute to the Children’s Beach House.

SARA GRAY

Falmouth, Maine

I currently live in Falmouth, Maine where I have resided for the past 30 years with my husband and daughter who is currently in Graduate School. I grew up on a horse farm in Vermont for 18 years and spent time in California and Alaska but I definitely call myself a New Englander.

I was a professional photographer for 20 plus years. I worked for both editorial and commercial clients, however my passion was always photographing the natural landscape. During a transitional period in my life I put down the camera and picked up the paintbrush. My grandmother and father were both wonderful painters so I always had the desire to paint but was always intimidated to give it a try.

I began taking continuing studies classes at The Maine College of Art. It was in one of these classes that I first painted Plein Air. As challenging as it was I was immediately excited and committed because I was once again outside interpreting my surroundings and my experience in the natural world but this time with paint rather than a camera. I had two wonderful teachers at MECA, Diane Dahlke and Janet Manyan . I painted everything in these classes, still lives, architecture, landscapes and the figure which gave me a strong foundation. I began painting in acrylics and quickly moved to oils.

Once I realized that my desire was to paint plein air I began taking workshops with plein air painters I admired; Caleb Stone, Tolleff and Bjorn Runquist, Margaret Gerding, Tim Horn, Jon Redmond, Mark Boedges and most recently I completed a 6 month mentorship with Lori Putnam. They have all been invaluable in my growth as a painter.

What I love about the plein air experience is all of the wonderful people I have met and had the opportunity to get to know and to paint with. One of my favorite stories is while participating in my first Plein Air Paint Out in Boothbay Harbor Maine I was set up next to a wonderful painter Bruce Mcmillan. I was nervous and he was so encouraging, warm, and engaging and made my first experience incredibly positive. A year later I participated in another one day painting festival in Vermont on a dirt backroad and who ends up setting up next to me, completely by chance but Bruce! We continue to randomly bump into each other and he was painting at my first juried competition this summer in Castine, Maine. Once again he made it a fun experience and the highlight of that week was that we both walked away with Honorable Mentions and will be juried into the show and painting together for the next three years! How did I find out about The Brandywine Plein Air Festival and who encouraged me to sign up? Bruce!!

Painting plein air is incredibly challenging, with the weather conditions, the bugs, the changing light… but it forces me to work quickly and to make fast decisions . I have been working smaller lately and painting small paintings often. I believe this combination has helped greatly in my growth as a painter.

I love this journey I am on and I look forward to participating int his years event, and exploring and painting the incredible countryside of this region.

Elaine Lisle

Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I began painting plein air when I was 16 in my back yard! I have always painted outside from life although I often complete large works in the studio. More recently I have enjoyed participating in plein air events and competitions. It has been a great way to push my work in different directions and learn and grow from other artists.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I studied at the University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. I have had some wonderful teachers, but have also found that when I began teaching myself, I learned alot from my students and the process of teaching. Taking the time to travel and paint where there are no distractions has also been very helpful.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

Participating in a quick draw where the weather went from sun to rain to cloudy to sunny to rainy all in the span of 2 hours taught me how important it is to get those first brushstrokes and focal point down very quickly.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I have most enjoyed painting in Provence and Ireland, but my local favorites definitely include the Brandywine Valley. I also love Maine, the Adirondacks, and painting urban scenes.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I love to work outside from life and PABV allows me the opportunity to work at some of the most beautiful farms and estates in the country (probably in the world!). It is also a good cause and always a wonderful group of artists.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

PABV is special because they bring you LUNCH! (courtesy of the wonderful Janssens Market) Always one of the highlights of the day. The volunteers who run the event are really wonderful as are the other artists who participate. I particularly enjoyed the nocturne last year and I hope the weather cooperates for this year’s event as well!

Maryanne Jacobsen

Venice, Florida

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I began painting plein air about 10 years ago, around the same time that I started learning to paint.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Perseverance. Learning to paint later in life has had its challenges, and as we grow older those challenges tend to loom larger in our minds. However, the joys of turning out a good work and having it purchased, somehow alleviates the struggles in the end.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

While painting in a prestigious botanical garden in Palm Springs, Fl. during the Lighthouse Plein Air Festival, a sudden storm came up and blew my easel and paints all over the ground. Happily, or so I thought, I had dutifully brought a tarp to stand on, and after picking up the mess and resuming the painting after the rain, I was unaware I had gobs of cad orange paint under my shoes. Every time I stepped backwards to view my work, I tracked orange paint all over the gorgeous stone pavers in that garden! When I finally saw the paint all over the tarp and the pavers, I was mortified!

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

Although I live in Florida, I find the majority of my inspiration comes from having painted in New England, California, and of course, my beloved Chester County Pennsylvania roots.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I’ve been competing in PABV since 2013, because it allows me to return to one of the loveliest places in the entire world- the Brandywine Valley, and savor the sights, smells and impressions that have formed the majority of my life’s memories.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

For years, living in the Chester County countryside, I was oblivious to how fortunate I was to actually live there! I was the Artistic Director of the West Chester Performing Arts Center and West Chester Ballet Theatre for many years, and those endeavors kept me quite busy. After moving to Florida in 2004 and becoming a visual artist I sadly realized the bright jewel I had left behind in the Brandywine Valley!

Through painting in the PABV competition every year, I am afforded the opportunity to go back and savor the great history and heritage of the area I’ll always call “home”. It is also well run and for a wonderful cause!

Kathryn Young Deaville

West Chester, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I have always enjoyed sketching outdoors. I started keeping sketchbooks years ago as an architectural student and I love trying to capture the image I am seeing on paper or canvas, whether it be a small detail of a building or a large-scale cityscape.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

The more I paint, the more I see.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

The challenges of painting outdoors are many, but I hope to turn them into positive elements. I remember trying to brush a stink bug off my painting and then liking the resulting brush stroke.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I really appreciate painting in small town settings with narrow streets and alleys. West Chester PA and New Castle DE are two of my favorite locations.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

There is so much beauty in the Brandywine Valley and I look forward each year to spending a whole week exploring the area in paint.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

Having worked and studied as an architect, I hope to express the sense of space in our towns and landscapes. I hope my paintings will invite the viewer in.

Cheryl Hart

Pottstown, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I’ve known of the term for a while but just became aware that it was a growing artist movement just over a year ago.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

What has helped me recently is taking on a 30 day challenge in the month of September. I feel like I’ve progressed more in that month than I have in the last 5 years.

Can you describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors – it can be positive or negative, but continues to stand out in your mind?

I was painting with a group in Valley Forge Park by the river and a bald eagle swooped down and caught a fish with its talons.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

The area where I live in Chester County Pennsylvania is beautiful countryside, so I don’t need to go far to find inspiration.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

The first time I painted plein air with a group of artists in 7/18. Immediately I was hooked and signed up for Brandywine Valley the following week. It’s being with other artists and out experiencing Gods creation that I love most. There is always some kind of unexpected little blessing that happens being out there that otherwise I would have missed. Last year was my first year participating in Plein Air Brandywine Valley and it was more than I expected. It has become a goal ever since to strive to bring my art to a higher level in preparation for PABV.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

The staff for Plein Air Brandywine Valley were outstanding. They were so helpful and supportive, the locations they have us paint are remarkable, and they brought a delicious bagged lunch (compliments to Janssens Market) to us every day. Last year I stood at the same location Andrew Wyeth stood when he painted overlooking Kuerner farmhouse…I was in awe.

Joanne McIlvaine

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

In 2009 I took a summer class at the local Art College on plein air painting. That was my first introduction; I knew nothing about it until I took the course. When the class ended, several of us decided to meet weekly to continue plein air painting. We’ve been meeting weekly over the warm months ever since and have invited others to join our group. Prior to that I had painted landscapes from photos, and still lifes and portraits from models in the studio.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Honestly, just doing it often has helped the most. I’ve taken several workshops and I keep experimenting with my materials to find a way to get the materials to do what I want them to do. I’ve also been experimenting with a limited palette, copying the palette of an artist I admire.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

I once dropped a just-finished painting face down into gravel as I was transporting it to my car. After the painting was dry, I picked the gravel out piece by piece with tweezers. Another time, a friend & I were painting on top of a large hill overlook, trying to finish our paintings before dark. The lovely pink cloud I was painting quickly developed into a storm cloud, the wind picked up, and we saw lightning nearby. We knew we had to hurry to tear down our easels and get to our cars at the bottom of the hill. The storm clouds massed overhead as we hurried down the hill with gear in tow, joking about how metal easels could attract lightning, etc. We had just gotten into our cars when torrents of rain came down.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have painted?

I’ve painted mostly close to home, here in Pa., and several times in Delaware & Maryland. I’ve painted the Susquehanna, as well as many other gardens, street scenes, historic landmarks, parks and farms.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I like the deep connection I can make with the landscape I’m painting. It’s a Zen experience, it feels like deep meditation. It’s lovely to be actually immersed in the view you are painting out in nature; it calms the soul. Also, it helps you to notice details around you that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Plein Air Brandywine Valley attracted me because of the time of year the event takes place. There is still plenty of fall color in eastern Pa. in November, I’m excited to paint fall color. Also, there are many scenic places available in Brandywine Valley.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

I’m married, have 3 daughters and 2 large dogs. I grew up on a farm but now live in town.

Stefanie Lalor

Cranford, New Jersey

I have owned a gallery/frameshop in Cranford for 19 years. The shop has introduced me to many wonderful and talented artists. I became most familiar with Plein Air when a local arts organization hosted a plein air event in Cranford several years ago. I met many artists that I admire and have connected with following that event.

I began attending a workshop in Cape May with artist Gerry Heydt to learn to paint outdoors. This workshop has become a retreat for me and the 9 or so other women that attend annually. We have become good friends and we keep in touch throughout the year to paint and to encourage one another in our goals and artistic endeavors. This support system has helped me to develop as a painter. I also enjoy attending "quick draw" paint outs. I feel that the experience and exposure to other painters helps to develop my work. I paint daily and draw from the figure weekly to work towards improving my technique.

As a business owner and mother of two grade school children, my painting is done mostly locally. I love to paint the downtown of Cranford, NJ and of Westfield, NJ (my home town). I am also able to jump on the train and head into Manhattan to meet a few friends and paint nocturnes in NYC regularly. This is always an adventure!!

I love the adventure and unexpected aspect of plein air. I paint plein air to record a time and place for myself-a sort of journal. As I paint I am describing what I see so that I can have a memory of an adventure in my life. I usually finish each painting with the month and the year signed at the bottom as if it is a page out of a diary. I am attracted to paint in Plein Air Brandywine Valley as it is a place that has often been described by my framing customers as beautiful and picturesque. I am excited for the opportunity to explore the landscape in this part of the country during such a pretty time of year.

Thank you for all your hard work in organizing and holding this event. I will appreciate my experience in Plein Air Brandywine Valley 2019!

Barbara Berry

I first learned about plein air painting when I hosted a country supper for the Wayne Plein Air Festival in my barn! I met the talented and friendly artists that night, felt the excitement preparing for the week of painting, and have a been an enthusiastic supporter ever since.

My mother is an artist, so I thought everyone was! When I was very young I enjoyed painting from life. I sold my first piece to my fifth-grade principal. Though I often thought I’d like to study art, I majored in music performance in college and didn’t start taking art classes and workshops until my children took art classes at the Wayne Art Center.

This last July I was standing and painting in Boulder Creek right outside of Boulder, Colorado on an extremely hot summer day. The water kept me cool and comfortable. Since then I have sought out places where I can stand myself and my easel in a stream!

I like to paint in bucolic Pennsylvania farmland and forests, but my favorite place to paint is near the Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming.

Painting from life is in some ways so much more challenging than painting in a studio. Light is moving, plants are swaying, shadows are drifting, and I am forced to develop a strategy for each plein air painting. I am learning to like this challenge. I believe my work is evolving in a good way.

Recently I was very honored to have been chosen to receive the People's Choice Award and the Architecture in a Landscape Award at On Location Artists at the Brandywine 2018, the Jack Richeson & Co. Award by juror John Cosby, at Wayne Plein Air Festival 2018, my work was published in North Light Shop's Strokes of Genius 9 -a collection of 140 contemporary drawings, I am a finalist in the September 2017 Art Muse Contest- Marc Hanson, juror, I was awarded the First Award for Excellence in Works on Paper -117th Annual International Exhibition of Works on Paper by the Philadelphia Watercolor Society, and I was awarded Best in Show at the 2017 Wayne Art Center Student Works Exhibition.

It's my privilege to solve the riddle of rendering forms in the landscape or the reflected light on a loved one's face -to preserve and celebrate a moment I've treasured- and I am always surprised and honored to be invited to share what was created.

Yvonne Mucci

Verga, New Jersey

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I read an article in Watercolor magazine and started painting in the summer of 2011.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Seeing demonstrations given by artists I admire. Lots of painting, painting….and more painting.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting.

I was painting in a nice shady spot and unknowingly stepped backwards and stood on an ant hill. Before I knew it, I was covered with biting ants. Must have looked crazy as I danced around pulling off shoes, socks, and clothes! During a winter plein Air, it was so bitter cold that everything froze, my palette, the painting, me. My car heater melted my slushy painting resulting in some great effects that you could never replicate in the studio.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

All over the east coast and the Midwest.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

After 30 years in advertising, I wanted to be outside, and painting on location is so much better than the studio. The color you see when outdoors is incredible! PABV has fabulous locations that are not available without participating in this event. Besides, they are a well-oiled organization that supports a great group, Children’s Beach House.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

Who else besides PABV finds you on location, makes sure everything is good and feeds you? Love Janssen’s Market! Talk about being pampered, that usually doesn’t go with Plein Air!

Jim Rehak

Seaford, Delaware

I was introduced to plein air painting as a student at Maryland Institute College of Art and it became my primary path as an artist. Allowing mother nature to teach me the way has been highly educational. Pleinair painting presents subject matter and weather situations that can stretch your parameters.

I've had many unique and challenging outdoor painting experiences but the one that stands out occurred past the outfield fence of a softball field as I was painting a marsh scene...my back to the field. A home run was hit that impacted a few inches below my painting...smashing the face of my french easel. It only missed me because I ducked behind the easel, prompted by the outfielder shouting at me.

Plein Air Brandywine offers unique opportunities to paint beautiful private properties. This kind of subject matter just makes my search for inspiration (and composition) so much easier.

Radhika Srinivas

Devon, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I learned from fellow artists.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I have been a studio painter till about three years ago when I started painting outdoors. I realized that I enjoy it immensely since I feel that I can see a lot better than what a camera sees. I always travel with a sketch book to make some quick value studies on location. These have helped me become a better painter.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

I traveled to Santa Fe for the plein air convention this April. Although I was well prepared for the cold weather, I was not prepared for the 45mph wind gusts. I completed a painting under such windy conditions and then lo and behold my easel fell, painting and all. Luckily, since my medium was watercolor, it had already dried. This was an experience I will never forget.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I try to paint wherever I travel. I love to sketch/paint in NYC since I like urban subjects. Lately I have been also painting in Chester County, PA which is close to home. I am of course very thankful to Children’s Beach House for giving me the opportunity to paint live at the Wilmington Jazz Festival which was an unforgettable experience.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I have lately become addicted to painting en plein air despite its’ many challenges. The direct emotional response to the changing light, mood and atmosphere is what attracts me to painting on location.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

This is going to be my first-time painting for PABV organized by the Children’s Beach House. I have painted at the Wyeth Properties as part of the PWCS On Location Plein air event and have immensely enjoyed it. I am looking forward to participating in this event.

Marita Hines

Marietta, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

My first experience with Plein Air painting was more than 20 years ago. At that time, standing in a snowy farmer's field, my only thought was "why would anyone risk frostbite when they can paint in a cozy, warm studio?" These days I paint outside every chance I get as I've realized there's so much more to see in real life. The poor substitute of a photo reference will rarely capture the rich color of a shadow or the "feeling" of a sunny day.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I believe the only way to improve is to paint daily, even if all I have time for is a value study. I also keep a digital record of my paintings. It is fun to see how far I've come, and so much more constructive than comparing myself to others. That said, I love to follow the work of other Plein Air painters and use Instagram for this purpose.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

A couple weeks ago, I was painting a street scene in a neighboring town. A large truck pulled up in front of me, blocking my view. The man got out of his vehicle and walking towards me, he said, "Hey, whatcha painting?" I replied, "the buildings you just blocked." Then we both chuckled and I took him up on his offer to move a couple spots up the street. This is a common occurrence; in fact, you can pretty much count on something eventually blocking your view.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I live in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and there is plenty here to paint--the Susquehanna River, small town street scenes, and farmland. I belong to two Plein Air groups, including one that I organize. In the last couple years, I've also painted in Monhegan and Rockland, Maine, the Andalusia Region of Spain, and in New Mexico--White Rock Overlook and Abiqui Lake. This fall I'll be painting the parks and city scenes of New York City.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I love the camaraderie of painting with other Plein Air artists. I've only been to a few places in Brandywine Valley. What I see is breathtaking, so I'm really looking forward to the event.

I think the challenge of a competition brings out my spontaneity and that's something that works well with watercolor, my medium of choice.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

I've always been interested in art and have always said that I would pursue it full time when I retired from my desk job. That opportunity came over three years ago, and I've been painting ever since. I like the challenge of taking on new and different subject matter. One of my favorite things to do is combine a plein air workshop with a vacation.

Caroline Chen

Wilmington, Delaware

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I started about 10 years ago.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Artists friends, peers, teachers and artists that came before me…and lots of time at the easel.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

I remember painting in a horse pen and a horse walked up and knocked over my entire easel setup. Must have been a bad painting.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I have painted all around the Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania, NJ, Maine, Florida and Barcelona. On farms with animals, hot beaches, and in the city.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I think the immediacy and the elements of being outside are conducive to faster and more definitive decisions. I think painting on location invites a lot of the unknown into a painting. More than studio painting, you step back, look and say that was much better or worse than I thought. And of course, you deeply experience being in wonderful locales by spending hours immersed in them.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

I’ve participated in PABV I think every year but one. It is always a pleasure to work with the staff who I think are super caring. Thank you. The other thing of note is that it is a privilege to have access to private residences. They are places in our community that we would never get to see. Thanks for that too.

Ann Jagielski Crostic

Baltimore, Maryland

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I’ve always painted landscapes on location; starting when I was in college at Maryland Institute College of Art. However I was not aware of the “Plein Air” definition until the early 2000’s, when the term became more widely recognized. I began painting “alla prima” (wet into wet) at that time, which was very different than my studio training.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Perhaps mainly a desire to learn and improve; just like most things, you only get better by studying and working harder. I’ve been very fortune to have met many talented and helpful artists in my journey.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

Painting out of doors can be unpredictable-all plein air artists have stories! Mine include painting while it was hailing (twice now); and slipping and sinking in muck as I retrieved a painting that flew into a soggy marsh.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

Traveling to the Adirondacks this summer I painted mountains, rivers and gorges for the first time.

Closer to home, I’m fortunate to have the quiet solitude of Chesapeake Bay waters and marshes.

I also enjoy studying urban settings; the places and cities people call home. Baltimore has many unique and interesting neighborhoods.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

Each every subject is unique. Every day is different. The challenge to attempt to capture this “personality” in a painting is addicting.

I’ve been participating in Plein Air Brandywine Valley since 2013. PABV offers artists a wonderful opportunity to study on private properties in the area that are not otherwise accessible.

Kristi Gilfillan

Malvern, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I started painting under Elise Phillips 9 years ago. She was the one that got me started painting plein air. She was always pushing me to loosen up and to not overwork my paintings, and painting plein air is a great way to refine this skill.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I’ve developed as a painter through…..Practice, practice, practice! Studio time, workshops and reading books from notable plein air artists have been very helpful. I have gathered different tips and techniques from them that have helped me develop my own work and style.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

In one of my first competitions, I set my easel with my wet painting down to open the car and it fell over and my wet painting flipped right on top of the field grass. After picking off all the bits of straw, I continued to mess it up a bit in attempt to clean it up, and found I liked the piece better once I had scuffed it up! I often think back to that and mess up hard edges at the completion stage of a painting.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I typically stay local since I still have kids at home. Chester County countryside is one of my favorite areas to paint. I also paint in Martha’s Vineyard each summer.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

Plein air painting gives me a charge. Being out in the fresh open air with a set amount of time to complete a piece is always an exciting challenge. I just love being part of Plein Air Brandywine Valley. The opportunity to paint such lovely, bucolic settings alongside so many talented artists is both inspirational and an honor. Seeing everyone’s work hanging together at Winterthur at the end of the week is amazing. I love seeing all the different artistic interpretations of the locations. I think the patrons that come to the show are continually impressed by the quality and quantity of art displayed, and all for sale for a good cause!!

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

I think artists often get very isolated working alone in their studios. Events like PABV give us the ability to come together and support each other in a way that helps us all grow. I am fortunate enough to paint with my mother, Joan Spillman, at least once a week. Sharing our passion for painting and having someone to critique my work has helped me immensely over the years.

Elena Shackleton

New Tripoli, Pennsylvania

I first learned to paint plein air at a very early ages. My teacher would take us on nature walks and encourage us to paint in the gardens surrounding the studio. In later years we would travel to the surrounding marshes, towns and East Point Light. Winter, spring, summer and fall, we were out painting.

My painting is greatly helped by my ability to draw. Rendering became secondary, and I could concentrate on the effect of light.

The most challenging experience I had was many years ago, painting in “the sand box” at the Cape School of Art. We were only allowed painted blocks as the subject, on gessoed panels with palette knife. We had rudimentary easels. When a gust of wind would come and knock the panel off into the sand, you just picked it up, brushed it off, and kept going. I still cringe when I think of the feeling like scraping nails on a chalk board.

I have painted from life all my life. Memorable places for me are Valley Forge, Sea Isle City, Milan, Italy, and the Outer Banks of NC. Most recently I have been all over the Lehigh Valley area, where I live. The scenic area where we have located, near the Blue Ridge abounds in farms and fields, streams and mountains. I have a long to do list!

After raising a family, teaching privately and working for many years, I now have the freedom to take my art where it leads. I have returned to my first love. Always yearning to be in the plein air “scene” makes joining in a natural choice.

I have painted in privacy and isolation for most of my career. The last 5 years I have jumped into our local art community with both feet. I have had to hold myself back from following this path for so long, I feel like a race horse that has been held at the gate! It is time to run.

Mick McAndrews

Downingtown, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I started around 2012. My first plein air event was Wayne Plein Air and it was both amazing and intimidating. It’s been a steep but wonder-filled learning curve ever since!

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Practice, meeting and learning from fellow painters, practice, participating in plein air events, practice, trying to find time every day to draw and paint, and practice!

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

I’m always surprised at how interested people are in someone painting. Be they supportive or critical, you set up an easel and start painting and you will have a gallery!

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

Telluride, CO, Western Maryland, Chesapeake Bay, Door County, WI, Downtown Philadelphia, the Pacific Northwest and, of course, the beauty-filled Brandywine Valley!

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

PABV is a very well-organized event and provides opportunity to paint on some of the most amazing properties anywhere. Painting outside is the ultimate artists challenge, as it requires me to make decisions and paint quickly. Painting outside has definitely improved my studio work as a result!

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

I look forward to the challenges and rewards of PABV. It’s the perfect way for me to wrap up the plein air season!

Jacalyn Beam

Greenville, Delaware

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I was walking the beach in Rehoboth and saw a painter. It was Denise Dumont- a plein air artist who at that time lived in Milford DE. Denise was a great ambassador for plein air and shared information about the equipment and nature of plein air.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Painting plein air as much as possible!

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

One February afternoon I was painting on the grounds of the Chadds Ford Historical Society. Within seconds everything turned dark and a snow squall barreled across the field and dumped about two inches of snow on my palette within seconds. The squall left as quickly as it arrived leaving me with thoughts about what to do next. First, I took a photo of the snow on the canvas and palette (what did we do before cell phone cameras?) Interestingly, the snow on the canvas made the painting look like a ‘snow scene’.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I love being outside in the elements. PABV was attractive at the onset because it’s close to home. Now, PABV is attractive because of the people who organize and maintain involvement in the event. The volunteers are dedicated, hard-working, and nice people!

Don Shoffner

Narberth, PA

I have been working on site since I began painting. Doing sketches, drawings for paintings, then painting, but as part of the studio painting process. Over the years have sporadically tried plein air but began in earnest the first year of the event.

So many things have contributed to my development as a painter: travel, challenges working with new mediums and materials, study, and more painting.

My first attempt to take an easel and paints into the field started well, I was working on my grandmothers farm near Marlborough Village and I wandered away from my work to allow it to set up and got distracted by the day and sitting on the side of a stream. When I returned to my work it had been "modified" by 5 Holstein cows and my paints had been eaten. I learned - don't wander, stay focused.

I have painted all throughout the Brandywine Valley during the last 7 years as a participant in the PABV events. The past several summers, I have spent a good deal of time sitting on my beach on the Southshore in Plymouth, Mass. An endless source of inspiration, color changes and sea creatures.

I began plein air painting in the BVPA as a challenge offered up by the then Director at CCAA. Who knew - I found I liked the challenge and it stretched me as a painter, gave me a new sense of composition, and sometimes a looser style. I never have looked at it as a competition with other artists, rather as a competition between me and the elements.

I am most appreciative of the efforts the PABV and CBH staff put in to finding new, sometimes off limits venues for us to explore and paint. I look at that as the largest incentive to paint.

J. Stacy Rogers

Lewes, Delaware

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

From 2000 to 2005 I was strictly a studio painter. I became restless being sequestered in my studio and started to take open studio, life-figure painting sessions from a nearby art academy. At the same time I began to expand my subject matter interest in figure painting and portraiture to include the landscape. Getting out of my studio and wanting a first hand painting experience with nature conspired to get me painting outdoors. Most artists including myself are happy to paint outdoors without having to name the activity. Yet the term “en plein air” has become increasingly popular to describe what we do and so my painting outdoors has become my painting en plein air.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Paint and learn. There is a quality of freshness that painting alla prima brings to the canvas and each canvas is an opportunity to stumble upon unplanned or unintended painting successes (and failures) that randomly occur. Some of these surprises are reproducible and can be added to my continuing painting education which will make each new painting more informed than the last.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

Exhausted, embarrassed and panicked, I’ve been rescued more than once as it happened that I brought the wrong size frame for a finished competition painting. Might sound like a rather small problem, but not to me. With no time to buy a replacement frame, my only choice would be to hang an incomplete display of my competition paintings. Instead of that disappointment, several artists came forward and offered to match up a frame of theirs in order to find a solution to my nightmare.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I don’t paint solely for myself. I have to believe that what attracts me or motivates me to paint a setting will touch and inspire the viewer in a similar fashion. I have painted in dozens of competition locations along the east coast from Richmond, Virginia to the Adirondacks in New York and in each location I’ve tried to find native places to paint that the viewer can recognize or find a degree of personal identification.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

Seeing is believing. Painting from photographic reference offers no real artistic challenge and, more often than not, incomplete information. If one wants nature to reveal itself then paint in it’s presence - from direct observation.

For the plein air painter, the Brandywine Valley offers a large array of scenic painting opportunities and is known for it's legacy of land conservation and for the preservation of it’s historic gardens, vintage farmlands, rural hamlets and waterways.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting

I am a new resident in Delaware, painting the Delmarva Peninsula from Lewes. Here the Atlantic coastline offers scenic beauty very different from the Brandywine Valley. Having painted this year for the Chadds Ford Historical Society's Plein Air event, I look forward to returning to paint “the most scenic properties of the Brandywine Valley”.

Carol L. Douglas

Rockport, Maine

1. How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air? I’ve been painting en plein air since I was a small child. My father was a painter and landscape from life was his preferred métier. Although I’ve had the usual training in studio painting, plein air is to me the most difficult and the most communicative of all realist painting.

2. What has helped you develop as a painter? To be a painter, you have to actually paint. To me the discipline of painting full time for twenty years has been the most important thing. I’d also credit Cornelia Foss (Art Students League, New York) with showing me my proper place in the continuum of contemporary art.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

In autumn of 2016, I painted across Canada, starting in the Brooks Range in Alaska and moving east to St. John’s, Newfoundland. Until the weather shifted, I spent most nights sleeping in my small SUV.

In Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, I painted on a boardwalk I’d walked at midnight the prior autumn. I’d been offered a lift by a park ranger, and I met him again this following trip. He told me that in 1997, a bear had attacked a woman and her two small children in the park. The mother and a man who tried to save her were both mauled to death.

“I was really worried about you,” he told me. No more nighttime rambles through the western forests for me, and since there was unusual bear activity this latter day as well, I rushed through the painting and left.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

Painting above the Arctic Circle in Alaska was both beautiful and very cold. It was September and it snowed, of course. I’ve painted in beauty spots around the British Commonwealth, but the Great White North is what makes my heart sing.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

Painting Plein Air is the most complex of disciplines. One cannot put into words our relationship with the physical world, or our relationship with its creator. I know the Brandywine Valley and have painted there occasionally. It’s pastorally beautiful, which is very different from the ruggedness of my usual haunts. Still, I was raised on a farm, and it’s a call back to my roots.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

I teach a watercolor workshop aboard a schooner in June. This is all about impressions in paint, because every minute, the scene changes. And, of course, much of the draw is the historic schooner, not me.

Randall Graham

West Chester, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

Around 2011

What has helped you develop as a painter?

Classical training is the most helpful thing any painter can do in my opinion. A lot of trial and error certainly helped as well.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

I painted inside my mini-van during a rainstorm. I used the raindrops on my windshield to abstract the view of the scene I was painting. This led to a fantastic discovery that I could mix realism and abstract painting styles on one canvas. I have been attempting this ever since.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I love the Brandywine Valley locations. Winterthur, Jamie Wyeth’s farm and Granogue are magically beautiful. It is a fantastic place to live.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I love the challenge of painting plein air. Plus, it is always enjoyable spending time in nature.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

PABV is a fantastic event. It is truly a spectacular time of year to paint. All the staff of Children’s Beach House are so generous and helpful. I highly recommend this event to artists and patrons alike.

Bruce McMillan

Shapleigh, Maine

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I learned of painting by going to a museum as a youngster, beholding the French impressionists, I saw the results of what portable paints could do, take you anywhere. I was in my sixties, beginning my watercolor journey, when I discovered how watercolors could easily go anywhere.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

My then nine-year-old grandson's advice guides me. When observing a painting he was working on, a gallery scene, a figure standing to the left of a hanging painting, the hanging painting, and then the descriptive label on the wall, not to the right beside the painting but above the painting, I asked him why he'd put the label above the painting. He crossed his arms, looked at me with a frown and explained, "Grampa Bruce, it's a painting; you can do anything." I think of his words every time I paint.

Describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors.

It was the end of a day painting plein air in Stonington, Maine. The sun was dropping, and I'd packed it in. Driving along the shore, the light got dramatic, the clear low-in-the-sky sun behind me, late afternoon fall sun streaming into the harbor full of lobster boats, more than any other harbor in Maine. I pulled onto Green Head, beheld the view, so many boats, the light bright, and islands in the distance. I wasn't done for the day, almost an hour of daylight left. The sun was setting so I pulled out a 7" x 5" watercolor block for a quick sketch. But the sight was too breathtaking. I pulled out a huge, full sheet, 30" x 22", and propped my watercolor palette on the rocks. Quickly, I set up my watercolor palette on my tripod, and settled into my folding tripod chair. For the next fifty-five minutes I drew and painted totally focused. I was in the zone, racing against the setting sun. This brief window of time pushed my drawing to be loosely certain, my painting, sure and bold, my brushes flying. It was a fast fifty-five minutes when darkness descended. That painting was selected for the gallery's window at the 2017 ArtinME exhibition in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.

I had a similar experience when painting at the 2018 Castine (Maine) Plein Air Festival. With the sun setting I painted two studies of the harbor looking towards Blue Hill. Again, there wasn't much time. I respond well to time constraints. It pushes me. These two paintings were quite satisfying, and both sold at the event.

In 2016 I painted at Brown's Head Light on the north side of Vinalhaven Island. I was into the zone, painting variations of the lighthouse overlooking the Fox Islands Thoroughfare. I posted all but one of the variations on my blog. Later, when submitting to the Port Clyde Art Gallery's Third Annual Invitational 10 x 10 Show, I included the one I'd deemed not good enough to post on my art blog. It was Best in Show, which led me to ponder, are we the best judges of our art?

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I'm drawn to coastal locations, islands and remote places. There aren't many of us painting plein air in Iceland. I painted a plein air view of the landmark hill Stori Dimon. Fortunately, I had a frame with me. That painting still hangs today, a thank you to my dear friends and hosts, in their summerhouse, having traveled only three-hundred feet from the hill where it was painted to the wall of their summerhouse.

Among the locations I've painted at in Maine are Acadia, Bass Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, Castine, Cliff Island, Cobscook Bay, Criehaven Island, Jonesport, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Monhegan Island, Ogunquit, Owls Head, Rockland, Schoodic, Shapleigh, Stonington, Vinalhaven, York; many locations in northern Vermont; coastal and inland Florida; at Grand Manan Island, Ottawa, and Whitehall Island, Canada; many places all around Iceland, including islands off the coast; Lugano, Switzerland; and Venice.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I applied to Brandywine because fellow artist Alison Menke recommended it when we were painting at the Castine (Maine) Plein Air Festival 2018 in July. When asked of all the plein air events she's participated in, and she's painted in many, which one was the best, without hesitating she said, "Brandywine, Bruce you must do it."

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

My background, an honored fortunate career in children's books, forty-three of forty-five photo-illustrated, fine-tuned my way of looking at things through a camera's lens while traveling up and down the world, from up in Iceland and Alaska, and down to Antarctica. Thus, my journey with watercolors has a visual basis, but is a complete departure from the pictorial to the freedom of painting, and painting loosely, keeping it fresh.

Judy McCabe Jarvis

Flourtown, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I have been painting plein air since my painting class at Tyler School of Art took a painting trip to the Delaware Water Gap in in 1979. WE stayed in log cabins and painted in mid fall.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I’ve developed further as a painter by through continuing education. Taking workshops from artists who inspire me and make me look harder at my subject and push me harder.

Can you describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors – it can be positive or negative, but continues to stand out in your mind?

One challenging situation I found myself in was when painting the victory gardens in La Mott , Cheltenham , Pa in 40 mile wind gusts and strapping my canvas to my easel, almost falling off rocks in Maine into the surf when painting on Mount Desert Island and picking bugs and rocks off my painting with tweezers.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I have painted some of my most meaningful paintings which have long been sold in a cute little neighborhood I lived in outside of Philly.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

Painting out doors is very athletic, physical and challenging. I am a very fast painter and I love to paint directly and spontaneously. When outdoors, the light changes rapidly and I need to work quickly.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

In the 1980’s I was popular for making ironic and witty portraits inspired by New Yorker covers and I once made a very large pastel of a powerful empowered woman named Christy standing in front of her barn. The piece was titled, “Christy’s World”. Obviously a play on Chrsitina’s World. It was exhibited in window of Gross McCleaf Gallery on 16th street in 1986. It loomed. I also, lived in Chadds Ford and had an article about Andrew Wyeth published in the Philadelphia Inquirer for his 100th birthday.

Al Richards

Chester Springs, Pennsylvania

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I was introduced to and started painting plein air from a friend and artist Mick McAndrews

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I’ve retired and I’m trying to paint every day. Painting with a group called “Farm To Table” (Land Art Events) for the past two years and we paint on farms under conservancy and have approximately 50 painting dates through the season at different locations.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

Throughout Chester County including the Laurels Preserve and Coatesville’s Riverwalk. Painted this summer in Assateague and West Ocean City (MD) with the Ocean City Plein Air Event.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

Plein Air painting tests your abilities to find and break down a scene and create your own composition. As you are painting you find things that you didn’t see at first glance and would probably never see with a photo. Competing in plein air forces you to get out and do it. I like the motivation and the Brandywine Valley has a lot to offer.

Can you describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors – it can be positive or negative, but continues to stand out in your mind?

I was painting at a farm this summer when the farm hands removed all my subject matter. I was lined up in a field with hay wagons when they came along, moved the wagons and cut down the field. I called it “Before the Harvest”.

Lissa Abrams

Baltimore, Maryland

How did you first learn of and when did you start painting plein air?

I retired in 2011 and began painting outdoors that year. The first summer I studied with Paul Moscatt, Professor Emeritus at MICA and painted every day in Baltimore City.

What has helped you develop as a painter?

I am committed to continuing to improve as a painter. I have studied with various people who have helped me refine and develop my painting. The more I paint, the landscape outdoors or the human figure, the more growth I see in my work. It has been important to my work to paint en plein air in different environments and various weather conditions. I enjoy painting with other artists who help me to improve my skills.

Can you describe something unusual or challenging that happened when painting outdoors – it can be positive or negative, but continues to stand out in your mind?

Once, when painting during Plein Air Brandywine Valley, the owner invited me to paint in the field with her horses. At some point the horses noticed me and galloped over and took my backpack with all my brushes. Disappointed there was no food, they dropped the backpack and the contents in the field. I quickly gathered my stuff, took down my easel and left the field. The painting was fresh and not overworked.

Can you tell us about some of the settings and places where you have you painted?

I have painted on the east coast from Canada to South Carolina, and New Mexico and Arizona. This includes: painting the ocean, the beach, craggy shoreline, and the bay, the mountains, small towns, big cities such as Baltimore, Washington, DC, and Wilmington, farms, abandoned homes, and the countryside.

Why do you paint plein air and what attracts you to compete in Plein Air Brandywine Valley?

I am passionate about painting from life. Each excursion outdoors brings new opportunities for growth due to changes in the light, atmosphere, and weather. No two paintings are alike due to these variables. I love being outdoors and capturing the beauty of nature and the history of our lives on my canvas.

Share anything about PABV or about you as a painter that others will find interesting.

Plein Air Brandywine Valley provides opportunities to paint this beautiful historic area. The farms are spectacular including wonderful vistas but many painting locations provide an opportunity to a capture a bygone era.