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Module 1: First Steps into Outdoor Painting
13 Lessons-
StartYour Course Overview
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StartDownload Plein Air Tips e-Book
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StartBonus e-Book: Why Did Van Gogh Paint Outdoors?
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StartMaterials
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StartPochade Box DIY
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StartPlein Air Palette
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StartComposition for Plein Air
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StartSimplification Tips
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StartProcess Example: Gouache Color Study
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StartAcrylic Painting: Still Life in Direct Sunlight
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StartOils: Garden Statue Painting
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StartConclusion Module 1
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StartAssignment Module 1
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Module 2: Color and Garden Scenes
11 Lessons-
StartWhat You Can Expect in Module 2
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StartCritical Color Temperature
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StartThe Importance of a Light Effect
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StartBest Time of Day to Paint?
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StartPractice Speed
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StartAcrylics: Lemon Tree
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StartOils: Lemon Tree
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StartPainting the Sky
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StartGouache: Garden Cloudscape
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StartConclusion to Module 2:
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StartAssignment Module 2
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Module 3: Next Steps Painting Atmosphere and Water
14 Lessons-
StartIntroduction to Module 3
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StartDealing with Fear of Painting Outdoors
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StartHow to Paint Grays
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StartHow to Paint Atmosphere
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StartAtmospheric Beach & Rocks
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StartImportant Ideas for Painting Water
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StartBoat in the Marina
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StartWater Impression
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StartHow to Paint Wet-Over-Wet
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StartEdges for the Win
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StartExpressive Dune Shadow
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StartSunset Dune
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StartModule 3 Conclusion
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StartAssignment 3
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Module 4: Travel, Paint and Back to the Studio
10 Lessons
Plein Air for Beginners: Impressionist Techniques in Oils, Acrylics, and Gouache
A Gentle Introduction to Outdoor Painting Over 10 Weeks
Course Summary
Find the Missing Ingredient to Truly Master Impressionist Painting
Do You Dream of Painting Vibrant, Light-Filled Impressionist Paintings? Many artists love the lively brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and emotional depth of Impressionist art. You might admire the way these paintings seem to capture not just a scene, but a moment—a feeling. Perhaps you’ve even tried to paint this way yourself, hoping to recreate the magic of Monet, Renoir, or Pissarro. But something feels off. Despite your best efforts, the light isn’t as radiant. The colors don’t sing. The energy seems flat. Why? Because you’re missing one essential ingredient.
The Secret Ingredient the Impressionists Knew
Here’s a little-known truth about Impressionist painting: the magic doesn’t happen in the studio. The Impressionists didn’t just sit inside, imagining sunlight and shadows—they went outside to paint en plein air. Why? Because painting outdoors gave them direct access to nature’s light, colors, and atmosphere. They captured fleeting moments, the sparkle of sunlight on water, the coolness of shadow under trees, and the ever-changing hues of a vibrant sky.
But here’s the thing: painting outdoors can feel daunting.
Do These Fears Sound Familiar?
- “It’s too difficult.” Setting up an easel outside feels overwhelming. What if I forget something or don’t know where to start?
- “It’s too exposed.” What if people watch me paint and judge my work?
- “It’s too dangerous.” I’m not comfortable venturing far from home with my art supplies.
- “I’m too old.” Isn’t plein air painting just for young, adventurous artists?
If any of these resonate, you’re not alone. These are common fears that stop so many artists from ever taking their art outdoors. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be this way.
Whether you’re new to painting or have some experience but have never painted outdoors, this course will guide you step-by-step.
You’ll gain practical tips for working en plein air,
master essential Impressionist techniques,
and experiment with different mediums like oils, acrylics, and gouache.
Learn how to translate light, atmosphere, and color into vibrant, expressive landscapes. Whether you’re painting from your backyard or exploring local evnues or travelling on holiday this course will guide you step-by-step to build confidence and master the techniques of the Impressionists.
By the end of this course, you will:
- Feel confident setting up and painting outdoors.
- Understand and apply core Impressionist principles, including capturing light, atmosphere, and color.
- Be able to paint vibrant, expressive landscapes in oils, acrylics, or gouache.
- Have a completed portfolio of outdoor paintings showcasing your progress.
Course Curriculum
Malcolm Dewey
Professional artist and writer.
