WAS-H Plein Air Group

Plein Air Coordinator

Alla Adams

Motto

"Progress over perfection."

Questions/Comments can be sent to PleinAir@WatercolorHouston.Org



Plein Air Paintings by Carla Gauthier


Painting outdoors, or plein air painting, offers artists a unique opportunity to capture the natural light, colors, and atmosphere of a scene in a way that studio painting cannot replicate. The ever-changing light conditions and weather elements provide a dynamic and challenging environment that pushes artists to observe and render their subjects with immediacy and authenticity. Outdoors, we also hear nature, identify various smells, feel air movement, and begin better relating to our subject of interest. Plein air painting offers a deeper connection with the subject matter, fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of the natural world. This direct interaction with nature enhances an artist's ability to perceive subtle variations in color, light, shadow, and movement, resulting in more vibrant, spontaneous, and lifelike paintings. Furthermore, the immersive experience of being outdoors can inspire creativity and support a sense of freedom in artistic expression.

The Plein Air Program is designed to encourage the members to study one subject at a time.

We will schedule locations in the Greater Houston Area for group outdoor painting each month. 

These sessions are for WAS-H members only and are free but participants must register prior to the session.

Be sure to watch the suggested YouTube videos in each description to prepare you for the event.  This encourages participants to practice painting prior to the outing.

Members bring their own plein air supplies. The Plein Coordinator will ensure that all participants are well-informed about upcoming events and weather conditions. 

Be sure to prepare for painting outside!  Here is a suggested supply list, if you need help: Watercolor Supplies for Plein Air Painting.docx

2025-2026 Plein Air Schedule

Saturday, Dec 13

Topic:  Buildings/Night


River Oaks Theatre

December 20

Topic:  Nocturnal


Kemah Boardwalk

Saturday, January 3

Cullen Sculpture Gardens

11 am - 3 pm

Saturday, February 7

Strand District, Galveston

11 am - 3 pm

Monday, February 16

Armand Bayou Nature Center, Pasadena

11 am - 3 pm

Wednesday, March 11

McGovern Lake at Herman Park

6 pm - 9:30 pm

Saturday, April 4

Glenwood Cemetery

11 am - 3 pm


Saturday, April 18

Piers 19 & 21, Galveston

11 am - 3 pm



Monday, May 25

Lake Houston Wilderness Park

11 am - 3 pm


Friday, June 19

Hindu Temple, Stafford Texas

11 am - 3 pm

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Upcoming events

    • December 13, 2025
    • 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
    • River Oaks Theatre, 2009 W Gray St., Houston, TX 77019
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, Dec 13

    4:30 pm - 7:30 pm

    River Oaks Theatre, 2009 W Gray St., Houston, TX 77019

    This Plein Air event will focus on nocturnal painting.

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Experience the enchanting glow of the golden hour as you capture the beauty of twilight with watercolors at the iconic River Oaks Theatre. This special nocturnal plein air painting event invites artists of all levels to explore the interplay of soft evening light, shadow, and architectural charm. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and let your creativity shine. Bring your watercolor supplies and enjoy this unique opportunity to paint during one of the most magical times of day!

    Sunset time on December 13 in Houston will be 5:24 PM. The golden hour with streetlights turning on will begin 30 minutes before sunset.

    This Plein Air event will focus on nocturnal watercolor painting.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are a few helpful YouTube video demos you can practice with at home before attending the event on location. I typically watch the full demonstration first to understand the process and take notes on key techniques. Then, I replay the video and paint along with it. One of the things I appreciate most about YouTube demos is the flexibility - they can be paused or rewound, allowing me to learn and paint at my own pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – nocturnal watercolor painting in Plein Air!

    Watercolor Night Painting – Tips on Painting Nocturnes by Eric Yi Lin

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3U8Q42QMV4U

    Night Vision: Watercolor Painting Techniques for Creating Stunning Night Scenes by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6_8o4Rcdas

    Watercolor Nocturne by Christopher Leeper

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsC5X6Kea0s

    Night Painting in Watercolor: Step by Step Tutorial by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IThchRmBo98


    • December 20, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Kemah Boardwalk, 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, Dec 20

    5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

    Kemah Boardwalk, 215 Kipp Ave,

    Kemah, TX 77565

    This Plein Air event will focus on nocturnal painting.


    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Experience the enchanting glow of the golden hour as you capture the beauty of twilight with watercolors at the amazing Kemah Boardwalk. This special nocturnal plein air painting event invites artists of all levels to explore the interplay of soft evening light, shadow, and architectural charm. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and let your creativity shine. Bring your watercolor supplies and enjoy this unique opportunity to paint during one of the most magical times of day!

    Sunset time on October 25 in Kemah will be 6:39 PM. The golden hour with streetlights turning on will begin 30 minutes before sunset.

    This Plein Air event will focus on nocturnal watercolor painting.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are a few helpful YouTube video demos you can practice with at home before attending the event on location. I typically watch the full demonstration first to understand the process and take notes on key techniques. Then, I replay the video and paint along with it. One of the things I appreciate most about YouTube demos is the flexibility - they can be paused or rewound, allowing me to learn and paint at my own pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – nocturnal watercolor painting in Plein Air!

    Watercolor Night Painting – Tips on Painting Nocturnes by Eric Yi Lin

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3U8Q42QMV4U

    Night Vision: Watercolor Painting Techniques for Creating Stunning Night Scenes by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6_8o4Rcdas

    Watercolor Nocturne by Christopher Leeper

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsC5X6Kea0s

    Night Painting in Watercolor: Step by Step Tutorial by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IThchRmBo98


    • January 03, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Cullen Sculpture Garden, Calumet St., Houston, TX 77004
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, January 3

    11 am - 3 pm

    Cullen Sculpture Garden, Calumet St., Houston, TX 77004

    This Plein Air event will focus on sculptures outside.

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Join us for an inspiring day of art and creativity at the Cullen Sculpture Garden, where contemporary sculptures and lush landscaping create the perfect setting for plein air painting. Surrounded by iconic works of art and the serene beauty of this outdoor space, artists of all skill levels are invited to capture the interplay of form, light, and nature. Bring your favorite painting materials and let the harmonious blend of art and nature spark your imagination!

    This Plein Air event will focus on painting a sculpture in an outdoor setting.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – painting an open-air artwork in Plein Air!

    Watercolor Glazing Technique by Liron Yanconsky

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=1CZSbWk1fTQ&t=0s

    Watercolor Painting Tips and Techniques: Sculpture by Achintya Hazra

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=C_6XAzmFSik&t=0s

    How to Paint a Statute Bust in Watercolor by Paint Basket

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHkOmSZRK-8

    Expressive Watercolor painting Tutorial: Stone Sculpture by Gee Massam

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=ZDFAANLRM0c&t=0m23s

    Getting the Right Contrast in Watercolor: Angel Statue by Liron Yanconsky

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74C8A1Ya29s

    • February 07, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • The Historic Strand District in Galveston
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, February 7

    11 am - 3 pm

    The Historic Strand District in Galveston


    This Plein Air event will focus on historic buildings.


    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Painting a timeless cityscape such as the Historic Strand District in Galveston allows capturing the charm and vibrancy of an iconic coastal landmark area. How to go about it? You might want to begin with sketching the district’s distinctive architecture, from ornate facades and vintage storefronts to wrought-iron balconies. Use light washes to build the sunny coastal atmosphere, layering warm tones for the buildings and cool blues for the sky and shadows. Incorporate details like bustling sidewalks, lampposts, and colorful awnings to bring the lively character of the scene to life. Watercolor’s fluid nature is ideal for portraying the interplay of light and shadow on historic structures and the vibrant energy of this timeless district.

    This Plein Air event will focus on painting historic buildings.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – painting historic buildings in Plein Air!

    How to Paint Architecture in Watercolor Loose Style – Painting Light and Mood by Nina Volk

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKzkitSEUro

    Watercolor Demonstration by Vladislav Yeliseyev

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmkHmBZfMD8

    Capturing the Beauty of Old French Buildings: Plein Air Watercolor Painting Demo by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvRHj3hHlJI

    Venice Travel Plein Air Watercolor Painting Demo: Renaissance Building Façade by Ina Xi

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzIPip5uer0

    This Is the Best Way to Paint Buildings by Robert Mee

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GugmXDPiiA4

    • February 16, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Armand Bayou Nature Center, 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena, Texas, 77507
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Monday, February 16

    11 am - 3 pm

    Armand Bayou Nature Center, 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena, Texas, 77507

    This Plein Air event will focus on nature scenes and animals.



    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Join us for a plein air painting event at Armand Bayou Nature Center and immerse in the tranquil beauty of nature. We will capture the stunning scenes of lakes, majestic trees, serene ponds, and lush greenery. With endless inspiration around every corner, this is your chance to bring the magic of nature to life through art. Bring your easel, brushes, and creative spirit for a day of artistic exploration and connection with nature!

    This Plein Air event will focus on nature scenes and animals.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – nature scenes and animals in Plein Air!

    American Bison Watercolor by Steve Atkinson

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGXX_RtIzHs

    Watercolor Animals in the Landscape – Bison by Bob Davies

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vttqwjqOVRM

    Watercolor Painting: Mist Over the Lake – Central Park by Thomas Schaller

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0DxJMAz5oA

    Michael Holter – From Plein Air Sketch to Studio Painting

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2wqA_MHgsg

    How to Paint a tranquil Lake Scene by Art Painting Workshop

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YB9mq44Zv8

    Watercolor Painting: Brooklyn Botanic Garden by Andrew Chang

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hfln6FTRCyk

    • March 11, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • McGovern Lake at Hemann Park. Address: 6000 Hermann Park, Houston, TX 77030
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Wednesday, March 11

    6-9 pm

    McGovern Lake at Hemann Park. Address: 6000 Hermann Park, Houston, TX 77030


    This Plein Air event will focus on Nocturnal Watercolor Painting.

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.


    Experience the enchanting glow of the golden hour as you capture the beauty of twilight with watercolors at McGovern Lake at Hermann Park. This special nocturnal plein air painting event invites artists of all levels to explore the interplay of soft evening light, shadow, and architectural charm. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and let your creativity shine. Bring your watercolor supplies and enjoy this unique opportunity to paint during one of the most magical times of day!

    Sunset time on March 11 in Houston will be 7:27 PM. The golden hour with streetlights turning on will begin 30 minutes before sunset.

    This Plein Air event will focus on nocturnal watercolor painting.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are a few helpful YouTube video demos you can practice with at home before attending the event on location. I typically watch the full demonstration first to understand the process and take notes on key techniques. Then, I replay the video and paint along with it. One of the things I appreciate most about YouTube demos is the flexibility - they can be paused or rewound, allowing me to learn and paint at my own pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – nocturnal watercolor painting in Plein Air!

    Golden Hour – watercolor Sunset Scenery Painting by PS Art Gallery

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkGcCuOOh9Y

    Watercolor Blazing Sunset – “Golden Haze” by Kolbie Blume

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1is4LFbTkBY

    City Sunset Watercolor Painting Process by Noelle Curtis

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNk5MIYG284

    How to Paint Landscape with Sunset – Short Lesson by Eugenia Gorbacheva

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSdRFFH91qc

    Travel by Art: Sunset in Monza, Italy by Michael Solovyev

    https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=575294096719354

    • April 04, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Glenwood Cemetery, 2525 Washington Ave., Houston, TX 77007
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, April 4

    11 am - 3 pm

    Glenwood Cemetery, 2525 Washington Ave., Houston, TX 77007

    This Plein Air event will focus on outdoor sculptures.

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Join us for an inspiring day of art and creativity at Glenwood Cemetery, located at Washington Avenue overlooking Buffalo Bayou. Its iconic design was based on principles of garden cemeteries.  

    This Plein Air event will focus on painting a sculpture in an outdoor setting.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – painting an open-air artwork in Plein Air!

    Watercolor Glazing Technique by Liron Yanconsky

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=1CZSbWk1fTQ&t=0s

    Watercolor Painting Tips and Techniques: Sculpture by Achintya Hazra

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=C_6XAzmFSik&t=0s

    How to Paint a Statute Bust in Watercolor by Paint Basket

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHkOmSZRK-8

    Expressive Watercolor painting Tutorial: Stone Sculpture by Gee Massam

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=ZDFAANLRM0c&t=0m23s

    Getting the Right Contrast in Watercolor: Angel Statue by Liron Yanconsky

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74C8A1Ya29s


    • April 18, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Piers 19 to 21, Galveston
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, April 18

    11 am - 3 pm

    Piers 19 & 21, Galveston

    This Plein Air event will focus on boats.

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Join us for a plein air painting event at Piers 19 to 21 in Galveston and immerse yourself in the beauty of this historic area, where the charm of beautiful boats, shimmering waters, pelicans, and bustling dockside life come alive! This plein air painting event is perfect for artists of all levels who want to capture the vibrant colors, textures, and atmosphere of this iconic location. Bring your easel, brushes, and creative spirit!

    This Plein Air event will focus on boats.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – painting boats in Plein Air!

    Watercolor Demonstration – How to Paint Boats, Water and Reflections #2 by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1sQaRl1lgI&list=PLaZG5_7kmMRjRWwAx-0Ju9vDfUizXa41H&index=1

    How to Paint Boats in Watercolor – Harbor Scene Easy for Beginners by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbNJX77Z2Do&list=PLaZG5_7kmMRjRWwAx-0Ju9vDfUizXa41H&index=4

    Watercolor Demonstration – How to Paint Boats, Water and Reflections #7 by Tim Wilmot

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNq8FXdVIS4&list=PLaZG5_7kmMRjRWwAx-0Ju9vDfUizXa41H&index=6

    Secrets of Paining Watercolor Outdoors by Andy Evansen

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYNWmOZTTpU

    Virtual Demo, Lighthouse Plein Air Festival by Vladislav Yeliseyev

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDd8pCh2Vdg

    How to Paint Watercolor Landscape Painting by Joseph Zbukvic

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gpth9P7diOo

    How to Paint Many Boats in a Seascape: Step by Step Process of Painting a Complex Scene by Ina Xi

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vFGbp9BkFM


    • May 25, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Lake Houston Wilderness Park, 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Monday, May 25

    11 am - 3 pm

    Lake Houston Wilderness Park, 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357

    This Plein Air event will focus on Trees, Lake, Nature Scenes.

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.

    Join us for a creative escape surrounded by towering trees, serene lake views, and the tranquility of nature. Perfect for artists of all levels, this event invites you to capture the essence of the park’s lush landscapes and reflective waters in your unique style. Bring your watercolor supplies and let the soothing natural environment inspire your creativity!

    This Plein Air event will focus on trees, lake, and nature scenes.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – painting trees, lake, and nature scenes in Plein Air!

    How to Paint Trees in Watercolor by Paul Clark

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygV5PuvzjE4

    Trees Reflecting on Water Using Watercolor by Lucy Akins

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQw0mmnvksM

    5 Tips for Painting Trees in Watercolor by Paul Clark

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMVEuCfSVbs

    How to Paint Sunlight Through the Trees in Watercolor by Paul Clark

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lx_5Yrm8XFo

    Mastering Water Reflection with Pablo Ruben

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8VW_MsIwLE

    How to Paint a Lake in Watercolor by Matthew White

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTKsv9Mn6F8

    Lois’ Simple Beginners Easy Clouds and Lake Watercolor Landscape by Lois Davidson

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7MgOIZhM90

    How to Paint a Misty Lake in Watercolor by Paul Clark

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68oslNandIo

    Watercolor Painting Tutorial: Calm Lake by Javid Tabatabaei

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfDX4SLwki8


    • June 19, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple, 1150 Brand Ln, Stafford, TX 77477
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Friday, June 19

    11 am - 3 pm

    Hindu Temple

    BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple, 1150 Brand Ln, Stafford, TX 77477

    This Plein Air event will focus on a sculpture outdoors

    Additional information is emailed to those who register.


    Join us for an inspiring day of art and creativity at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple. The temple materials and sculptures were carved out of Italian marble and Turkish limestone by 3,000 craftsmen in India, and then shipped to Houston for building this magnificent mandir. It is composed of 33,000 pieces of marble and limestone that were fitted together in tongue-and-groove fashion like a three-dimensional puzzle. The entire structure, including the foundation, does not contain a single piece of iron or steel. The details in the columns and walls include carvings of deities, dancers, musicians, elephants, horses, flowers and geometrical designs. 

    This Plein Air event will focus on painting a sculpture in an outdoor setting.

    Click here to see the supply list for watercolor painting in Plein Air

    Below are some helpful YouTube video demos to practice at home before going to this event on location. With YouTube videos, I usually first watch the entire demo to see the result and make notes of important points. Then, I start the video again and paint along. I like the convenience of YouTube demos that can be paused, and so I can paint and learn at my pace.

    I hope you enjoy practicing in advance and are excited about our topic – painting an open-air artwork in Plein Air!

    Watercolor Glazing Technique by Liron Yanconsky

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=1CZSbWk1fTQ&t=0s

    Watercolor Painting Tips and Techniques: Sculpture by Achintya Hazra

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=C_6XAzmFSik&t=0s

    How to Paint a Statute Bust in Watercolor by Paint Basket

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHkOmSZRK-8

    Expressive Watercolor painting Tutorial: Stone Sculpture by Gee Massam

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=ZDFAANLRM0c&t=0m23s

    Getting the Right Contrast in Watercolor: Angel Statue by Liron Yanconsky

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74C8A1Ya29s


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