The Plein Air Affair

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Plein Air Affair

All are welcome to the Opening Reception Monday May 23, 2016, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Plein Air explorations happening in the garden!

Definition of PLEIN AIR

1: of or relating to painting in outdoor daylight

2: of or relating to a branch of impressionism that attempts to represent outdoor light and air

Origin of PLEIN AIR

French, open air

First Known Use: 1894 (Merriam-Webster Dictionary)

How would ‘The Impressionists’ approach the landscape today? With the evolution of working concepts and medium, would they be inspired to experiment within this discipline using these new insights?

Currently, many plein air artists and groups have many and sometimes differing rules defining what is acceptable within the ‘real plein air’ painting genre. There are those who believe; no photographs allowed; only pieces fully painted on site are acceptable - no studio work; the brushstrokes must be reminiscent of impressionism – no small brushes and some restrict subject to vista as opposed to detail….. A desire for tradition seems prevalent.

Some members at The Fort Gallery believe these rules can inhibit contemporary expression within the landscape/plein air discipline and therefore need to be relaxed or outright broken…. Join us in a show that explores Plein Air within the lines and outside. Some artists may choose to paint on site more traditionally, while others will explore more non-traditional methods and concepts outside; concerning environment, colour, texture and light.

There may be opportunity for ‘Artist Spotting’ in Fort Langley, so keep your eyes open!