What is En plein air?

"En plein air" is a French expression that translates to "in the open air" in English. It is primarily associated with the practice of painting or creating art outdoors, in natural light, and in the presence of the subject being depicted. This approach to art became particularly popular in the 19th century, especially among Impressionist painters.

En plein air painting allows artists to capture the changing qualities of light, color, and atmosphere in a direct and immediate way. It often involves landscapes, seascapes, and scenes from nature, but it can encompass various subjects. The technique emphasizes a quick and spontaneous style of painting, as artists have limited time to capture the specific lighting conditions they desire.

En plein air painting has had a significant impact on the development of art, as it contributed to the Impressionist movement's focus on capturing the momentary and ephemeral aspects of the natural world. Today, many artists continue to practice en plein air painting as a way to connect with nature and capture its beauty in real-time.

The History

The practice of painting en plein air, or "in the open air," has a rich history that dates back several centuries. Here's a brief overview of its historical development:

• Early Beginnings (16th-17th Century): The origins of plein air painting can be traced back to the 16th and 17th centuries, though it wasn't as prevalent as it would later become during the 19th century. During this earlier period, the concept of artists venturing outdoors to capture the natural world in their works began to take shape.

  Notable artists of this era, such as Albrecht Dürer and Thomas Gainsborough, played pivotal roles in advancing the practice. These pioneering individuals occasionally embraced the notion of working directly in nature, departing from the traditional confines of the studio. While their outdoor forays were often focused on sketching and creating preliminary studies, these experiences marked the beginning of a significant shift in artistic methodology.

  Albrecht Dürer, a renowned German Renaissance artist, was one of the first to demonstrate a fascination with nature and the landscape as subjects for art. He produced detailed drawings and watercolors of plants, animals, and scenic views during his travels, particularly in the Alps. These works were characterized by their meticulous attention to natural details and were foundational in inspiring future generations of landscape artists.

  In England, Thomas Gainsborough, a prominent Baroque and Rococo portrait and landscape painter, similarly ventured outdoors to sketch and capture the British countryside. His early outdoor sketches, though primarily considered studies for later studio works, laid the groundwork for the plein air tradition to come.

  During this period, the emphasis was still largely on studio-based compositions, but the seeds of plein air painting had been sown. Artists like Dürer and Gainsborough were beginning to appreciate the unique qualities of light, color, and atmosphere that could only be fully understood and captured by working directly from life, and these ideas would gradually evolve and mature in the centuries that followed.

• The Barbizon School (19th Century): The true popularization of plein air painting took a significant leap forward in the early 19th century with the emergence of the Barbizon School in France. This movement marked a turning point in the history of art, as artists like Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot and Théodore Rousseau rejected the conventional studio setting as the primary location for artistic creation. Instead, they embraced the practice of painting rural landscapes directly from nature, setting the stage for a profound transformation in the art world.

  At the heart of the Barbizon School's philosophy was a profound connection to nature and a rejection of the idealized and formal studio compositions that had been dominant in European art for centuries. The Barbizon artists sought authenticity and immediacy in their work, aiming to capture the essence of the natural world with a sense of truth and sincerity.

  Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, one of the key figures of the Barbizon School, was a master of capturing the poetic and atmospheric qualities of the French countryside. He often ventured to the forest of Fontainebleau, a picturesque area just outside Paris, where he painted en plein air. Corot's work was characterized by its soft, tonal colors and a lyrical quality that celebrated the serene beauty of nature. His dedication to painting from life, rather than relying solely on studio sketches, was instrumental in advancing the plein air tradition.

  Théodore Rousseau, another prominent member of the Barbizon School, shared Corot's enthusiasm for working directly in nature. Rousseau was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey the rugged and untamed aspects of the landscape. His landscapes often featured dramatic skies, dense forests, and rustic scenes, reflecting a deep appreciation for the wild beauty of nature.

  Collectively, the Barbizon School played a pivotal role in transitioning the art world away from the formal and idealized studio compositions of the time. Their dedication to painting en plein air served as a catalyst for future movements, most notably the Impressionists, who would take the practice to new heights in their pursuit of capturing the fleeting effects of light and color. The Barbizon artists laid the foundation for a more direct and immediate approach to painting that continues to influence artists to this day, emphasizing the profound connection between art and the natural world.

• The Impressionists (late 19th Century): The Impressionist movement, which emerged in the late 19th century in France, represents one of the most iconic and transformative periods in the history of art. At its core, Impressionism was synonymous with the practice of en plein air painting, and it was during this era that this technique reached its zenith.

  Prominent Impressionist artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro were the vanguard of this artistic revolution. They fully embraced the principles of plein air painting and sought to capture the ephemeral and ever-changing effects of light and atmosphere in their works.

  Claude Monet, often considered the quintessential Impressionist, was a true pioneer of plein air painting. His series paintings, such as "Water Lilies" and "Haystacks," exemplify his dedication to capturing variations of light and weather over time. Monet's brushwork was quick and spontaneous, reflecting the immediacy of his observations. His exploration of color relationships and the interplay of light and shadow paved the way for modern art.

  Pierre-Auguste Renoir, another key figure in the Impressionist movement, was celebrated for his depictions of leisure, social scenes, and portraits. He often painted outdoors, using natural light to infuse his canvases with a sense of vitality and joy. Renoir's work embodied the Impressionist ethos of celebrating the present moment, with a focus on the transient qualities of life.

  Camille Pissarro, often referred to as the "father of Impressionism," was a mentor to many of the younger Impressionists and played a vital role in shaping the movement. Pissarro's landscapes and rural scenes emphasized the harmony between humanity and nature, with an emphasis on capturing the changing seasons and weather conditions through plein air techniques.

  What set the Impressionists apart from previous art movements was their radical departure from the traditional academic approach to painting. They rejected the meticulous detail and idealized forms of studio compositions, opting instead for loose brushwork and vibrant, broken color palettes. They captured moments in time, rendering the effects of light, color, and atmosphere in a way that had never been seen before in art.

  The Impressionist movement revolutionized the art world, challenging established norms and forging a path toward greater artistic freedom and experimentation. While they faced initial resistance and criticism, their innovative approach ultimately transformed the way people perceived and appreciated art. Today, Impressionism remains an iconic and beloved artistic movement, with the works of Monet, Renoir, Pissarro, and their contemporaries enduring as some of the most celebrated masterpieces in the history of art.

• Plein Air Movement Spreads: The influence of the Impressionists and the popularity of plein air painting transcended the borders of France and had a profound impact on art movements around the world. This expansion of the plein air movement was particularly evident in the United States, where it manifested itself through the work of artists associated with the Hudson River School and later, in California, with a distinct focus on capturing the natural beauty of the American landscape.

  Hudson River School (19th Century): In the United States, the Hudson River School emerged as a prominent art movement during the 19th century. Inspired by the Romantic ideals of nature and wilderness, Hudson River School artists aimed to capture the grandeur and beauty of the American landscape. Many of these artists adopted plein air painting techniques to convey the awe-inspiring scenes of the American wilderness.

  Thomas Cole was a key figure in the Hudson River School. He is often regarded as the movement's founder and is known for his epic landscape paintings. Cole's works, such as "The Oxbow" and "The Course of Empire" series, reflected his deep appreciation for the American wilderness. He frequently ventured into nature to create studies and sketches that informed his studio compositions, embodying the plein air approach.

  Frederic Edwin Church, another prominent Hudson River School artist, followed in Cole's footsteps. Church's works, like "Niagara" and "Heart of the Andes," featured stunning landscapes and natural wonders. His meticulous attention to detail and his use of vibrant color mirrored the techniques of the Impressionists. Church's adventurous spirit led him to travel to remote locations to paint directly from nature, immersing himself in the landscapes he depicted.

  California Plein Air Painters (Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries): On the other side of the United States, in California, plein air painting found a unique expression. As the state underwent rapid development and urbanization, artists sought to preserve and celebrate its diverse natural beauty. These California plein air painters, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were instrumental in capturing the region's landscapes, including its coastline, deserts, and mountains.

  Artists like William Wendt, Guy Rose, and Anna Hills embraced the plein air approach in California. They were drawn to the state's Mediterranean climate, which allowed for year-round outdoor painting. These artists frequently painted en plein air, documenting the coastal scenes of Laguna Beach, the majestic vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the picturesque missions along the California coast.

  The works of the California plein air painters not only celebrated the natural beauty of the region but also played a significant role in shaping public perception and appreciation of California's landscapes. Their dedication to plein air painting contributed to the preservation of many of California's natural areas and landscapes, fostering a sense of stewardship and environmental awareness.

• 20th Century and Beyond: The tradition of plein air painting, which originated centuries earlier and gained significant momentum in the 19th century, continued to thrive and evolve throughout the 20th century and beyond. While artistic styles and movements underwent dramatic shifts during this period, plein air painting remained a fundamental and enduring aspect of landscape art, offering artists a timeless connection to nature and a unique way to explore the interplay of light, color, and atmosphere.

  As the 20th century unfolded, plein air painting continued to hold a special place in the hearts of many artists, serving as a source of inspiration and rejuvenation. Here are some key developments in the practice of plein air painting during this period:

  1. Persistence of the Plein Air Tradition: Many artists across the globe continued to practice plein air painting, upholding the principles of direct observation and capturing the essence of natural landscapes. This tradition was not limited to any one country or artistic movement but transcended geographical boundaries.

  2. Impressionism's Influence: The Impressionist movement, which had initially sparked the plein air revival, continued to influence artists into the 20th century. The loose brushwork, vibrant color palettes, and emphasis on capturing fleeting moments of light remained enduring elements in the work of numerous artists who admired and sought to emulate the Impressionist style.

  3. Expansion of Styles: While plein air painting had its roots in Impressionism, it was not confined to a single style. Artists began to experiment with various styles and techniques, adapting plein air practices to fit their individual artistic visions. This adaptability allowed plein air painting to remain relevant and adaptable to changing artistic trends.

  4. Fauvism and Post-Impressionism: In the early 20th century, movements like Fauvism and Post-Impressionism continued to explore the effects of color and light, often in outdoor settings. Artists such as Henri Matisse and Paul Cézanne expanded on the Impressionist tradition, focusing on expressive color and form. These movements, while distinct from Impressionism, shared a commitment to studying and interpreting the visual world, often through plein air techniques.

  5. Regional Expressions: Throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century, plein air painting took on regional and cultural nuances. Artists in different parts of the world drew upon their unique landscapes, climates, and cultural backgrounds to infuse new perspectives and themes into their plein air work. This diversity added richness and depth to the global tradition of plein air painting.

Great works of en plein air

As en plein air paintings are known for their focus on capturing the effects of light and atmosphere in outdoor settings. Many renowned artists have created iconic works using this technique. While it's challenging to list the "most famous" en plein air paintings definitively, as artistic preferences vary widely, here's a selection of some of the most well-known and influential plein air paintings in art history:

• Claude Monet - "Impression, Sunrise" (1872): This painting is often considered the very embodiment of the Impressionist movement and gave the movement its name. Monet's depiction of the port of Le Havre at sunrise with its hazy atmosphere and vibrant colors is an iconic example of plein air painting.
• Vincent van Gogh - "Starry Night" (1889): While van Gogh painted much of his work indoors due to his mental health, "Starry Night" is a famous example of his outdoor-inspired style. The swirling stars and dramatic landscape capture the essence of a moonlit night.
• Pierre-Auguste Renoir - "Luncheon of the Boating Party" (1880-1881): Renoir's lively depiction of friends enjoying a leisurely lunch by the Seine River showcases the play of light and shade on both people and the water. It's a prime example of Renoir's plein air approach to capturing social scenes.
• Camille Pissarro - "Boulevard Montmartre, Spring" (1897): Pissarro, a leading figure in both Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, painted urban scenes en plein air. This painting captures a bustling Parisian boulevard in the spring, emphasizing the play of light on the cityscape.
• John Constable - "The Hay Wain" (1821): An English Romantic painter, Constable painted the countryside of Suffolk, England, en plein air. "The Hay Wain" is a quintessential example of his dedication to capturing the beauty and tranquility of the English landscape.
• Winslow Homer - "Breezing Up (A Fair Wind)" (1873-1876): An American artist, Homer is known for his marine scenes. "Breezing Up" portrays a group of boys sailing off the coast of Maine, capturing the sense of adventure and the play of light on water.
• Edouard Manet - "Olympia" (1863): While Manet often painted in his studio, "Olympia" is notable for its combination of elements painted en plein air (the nude model) and studio work (the background and the cat). This painting sparked significant controversy in its time.
• Joaquín Sorolla - "Walk on the Beach" (1909): Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla was known for his vibrant beach scenes. "Walk on the Beach" captures the sun-drenched beauty of the Mediterranean coast and its effects on people's clothing and surroundings.
• Frederic Edwin Church - "Heart of the Andes" (1859): Church, associated with the Hudson River School, painted this monumental landscape en plein air, creating a sweeping panoramic view of the Andes Mountains, drawing on sketches made during his travels.
• Mary Cassatt - Various works: Cassatt, known for her Impressionist and Post-Impressionist-style paintings of mothers and children, often painted en plein air in gardens and parks, emphasizing the play of natural light on her subjects.

These paintings, created by masterful artists from various art movements and time periods, showcase the diverse range of subjects and styles within the realm of en plein air painting. Each work captures a unique moment, atmosphere, and emotional resonance through the artists' skillful use of outdoor observation and direct connection to the natural world.