It amazes me, too, how many people are intimidated by drawing. I get that a lot in my classes, too; still puzzled at where the idea that painting has nothing to do with drawing came from!
I can't wait for good plein air weather, too. As a charcoal artist, I have less to pack along and my gear is less involved, but I 💯 agree it's important to be familiar with what you are taking, regardless. The less time you fuss with your gear, the more time you can be out there making art!!
I'm a great believer at jumping in at the point that interests you to get you started painting and drawing, provided you realise you will have to fill in the gaps in your skills and knowledge as they reveal themselves without losing your initial enthusiasm. A zigzag, circular learning path rather than linear. Though I can't imagine going pleinairing without having tried an easel; that's a recipe for stress!
I’ve never attended a plein air workshop, but I’ve attended and taught somewhat adjacent things. I’ve noticed that those that don’t prepare ahead of time are scared of their equipment, and want a guiding hand to reassure them. They’ve spent all this money on a mysterious device that’s going to enable them to create Great Art, and are terrified of breaking something, of setting something up wrong, or generally just getting off on the wrong foot.
Jumping in is a great way to start -- but knowing a few basics will help avoid frustration for those who are easily frustrated. Too much prep, on the other hand, can be a delaying tactic for those who are easily intimidated!
It amazes me, too, how many people are intimidated by drawing. I get that a lot in my classes, too; still puzzled at where the idea that painting has nothing to do with drawing came from!
I can't wait for good plein air weather, too. As a charcoal artist, I have less to pack along and my gear is less involved, but I 💯 agree it's important to be familiar with what you are taking, regardless. The less time you fuss with your gear, the more time you can be out there making art!!
Yes, drawing is the foundation of it all!
I'm a great believer at jumping in at the point that interests you to get you started painting and drawing, provided you realise you will have to fill in the gaps in your skills and knowledge as they reveal themselves without losing your initial enthusiasm. A zigzag, circular learning path rather than linear. Though I can't imagine going pleinairing without having tried an easel; that's a recipe for stress!
I’ve never attended a plein air workshop, but I’ve attended and taught somewhat adjacent things. I’ve noticed that those that don’t prepare ahead of time are scared of their equipment, and want a guiding hand to reassure them. They’ve spent all this money on a mysterious device that’s going to enable them to create Great Art, and are terrified of breaking something, of setting something up wrong, or generally just getting off on the wrong foot.
Yes, indeed! I try to give people some help in advance of my workshops with https://www.mchesleyjohnson.com/plein-air-essentials-online-training/ and if they do need help at the workshop, I'm happy to give it.
Jumping in is a great way to start -- but knowing a few basics will help avoid frustration for those who are easily frustrated. Too much prep, on the other hand, can be a delaying tactic for those who are easily intimidated!
Excessive equipment organisation and pencil sharpening is definitely procrastination!
So right!