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 twice each month. 

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

Prior to each session, the Plein Air Coordinator will send out a list of links to YouTube videos on how to paint the topic identified 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. Painting sessions will use the following format:

Be sure to prepare for painting outside!  Here is a suggested supply list, if you need help:  Plein Air - Suggested Supply List.pdf

2025 Plein Air Schedule

Monday, January 20

Topic:  Japanese Garden


Hermann Park

Saturday, February 8

Topic:  Historic Buildings


Historic Strand District in Galveston


Monday, February 17

Topic:  Nature


Lake Houston

Wilderness Park

Monday, March 3

Topic:  Boats


Piers 19 to 21, Galveston



Saturday, March 15

Topic: Botanical Gardens

Mercer Botanical Gardens, Houston

 


Saturday, April 5

Topic:  Sculpture Garden


Cullen Sculpture Garden

Houston

Saturday, April 19

Topic:  Roses/Bluebonnets


Antique Rose Emporium and Baylor Park at Independence, Brenham

Saturday, May 3

Topic:  Buildings/Night


River Oaks Theatre

Monday, May 26

Topic:  Lakes


Sheldon Lake State Park

Houston

Upcoming events

    • January 27, 2025
    • 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Hermann Park
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Monday, January 27

    9:30 am - 3:30 pm

    Japanese Gardens, Hermann Park


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.

      


    This Plein Air event will focus on painting a Japanese garden.


    Painting a Japanese garden is a serene and inspiring experience, allowing to capture its harmony and tranquility. How to go about it? You might want to begin with observing the garden’s key elements - bridges, stone lanterns, ponds, and the delicate arrangement of plants and trees. Look for the path of light, contrast between light and dark cast shadows. Use light washes to convey the softness of foliage and water, layering colors to add depth and detail to features like green plants, bamboo, or moss-covered stones. Pay attention to the play of light and shadow, as well as the reflections in water, to create a balanced composition. Watercolor’s fluidity and translucence are perfect for depicting the garden’s peaceful ambiance and natural elegance, resulting in a painting that embodies its beauty and calm.


    Click the link to see the recommended supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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 a Japanese garden in Plein Air!


    Watercolor Painting – Japanese Garden by Lenka Corcoran

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


    Watercolor Painting for Beginners: Japanese Garden by Darren Yeo

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWWlj9OlVHo


    Elevating Watercolor Landscapes: An in Depth Look at “Echoes of a Japanese Garden” by Experienced Space

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Os5yYgtARGg 


    Brush Sketching: Japanese Hill-and Pond Garden by Andrew Chang

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcbB1PQRuTw


    Relaxing Watercolor Mini Paintings a Visit to Japan Inspired Garden by Astari Swatantri

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa11V5b0eLA


    Watercolor Painting, Japanese Garden by Kaze Suisaiga

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1_dT6AD_w0


    Bridge in a Garden by Kaze Suisaiga

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Y4qZbzFDv8




    • February 08, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Historic Strand District in Galveston
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, February 8

    11:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Historic Strand District in Galveston


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.



    This Plein Air event will focus on painting historic buildings.

      

    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.

    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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 17, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Lake Houston Wilderness Park
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Monday, February 17

    11:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Lake Houston Wilderness Park


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.




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


    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!


    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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


    • March 03, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Piers 19 to 21, Galveston
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Monday, March 3

    11:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Piers 19 to 21, Galveston


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.


    This Plein Air event will focus on boats.


    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!


    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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

    • March 15, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Mercer Botanical Gardens and Arboretum
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, March 15

    11:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Mercer Botanical Gardens and Arboretum


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.




    This Plein Air event will focus on nature scenes, flowers, and ponds.


    Join us for a plein air painting event at Mercer Botanical Gardens and Arboretum and immerse in the tranquil beauty of nature. We will capture the stunning scenes of vibrant flowers, 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, flowers, and ponds.


    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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, flowers, and ponds in Plein Air!


    Painting Realistic Water Lily with Watercolor by Yin Creative Studio

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJBcYtWNG2A


    Impressionistic Watercolor – Water Lily Pond by Lenka Corcoran

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyhRYUedG_0


    Waterlilies Watercolor Lesson by Karlyn Holman

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CE04gV1WkuA


    Botanical Garden Watercolor Painting Process by Noelle Curtis

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=uDdMeSyJM1A&t=1s


    Watercolor Painting: Brooklyn Botanic Garden by Andrew Chang

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

    • April 05, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Cullen Sculpture Garden
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, April 5

    11:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Cullen Sculpture Garden

    Calumet Street

    Houston, TX 77004


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.


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


    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!


    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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 19, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Antique Rose Emporium & Old Baylor Park in Brenham
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, April 19

    11:00 am - 4:00 pm


    Antique Rose Emporium

    10000 FM 50, Brenham, TX 77833)

    and Old Baylor Park in Independence

    11300 Old Baylor College Rd, Brenham, TX 77833.

    They are 3 minutes away from each other.


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.


    This Plein Air event will focus on a rose garden and a field of bluebonnets with weathered oak trees.


    Unleash your creativity in the heart of Texas as you paint amidst the fragrant blooms of the Antique Rose Emporium and the breathtaking beauty of bluebonnet fields adorned with weathered oak trees at Old Baylor Park in Independence. These two locations are very close, 3 minutes driving from each other. This plein air painting event offers a perfect blend of vibrant roses at roses nursery and gardens, sweeping wildflower meadows, and the timeless charm of majestic oaks - an artist’s dream come true! Whether you're a seasoned artist or a budding enthusiast, this event promises an inspiring day surrounded by natural beauty. Bring your favorite paints, brushes, and easel to capture the essence of these stunning landscapes.


    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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 – a rose garden and a field of bluebonnets with weathered oak trees in Plein Air!


    Paint This Beautiful English Country Cottage Garden Watercolor Landscape by Lois Davidson

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oojpq8BDamU


    Watercolor Roses Tutorial by Ellen Crimi-Trent

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koOXSle0ihk


    Rose Garden Landscape Watercolor by Namil Art

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHloQOZtZ2s


    Landscape Watercolor Painting: Flower Field by Ahra

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=VTX2I0PURfQ


    Painting a Unique Live Oak in Watercolor: Finding Trees Packed with Character by Steve Mitchell

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHZ-CjaJZ3k


    Watercolor Tutorial: Oak Tree by Colin Steed

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVgd2lN1wbM

    • May 03, 2025
    • 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • River Oaks Theatre, 2009 W Gray St., Houston, TX 77019
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Saturday, May 3

    5:00 pm - 8:30 pm


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


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.


    This Plein Air event will focus on nocturnal watercolor painting.

    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 May 3rd in Houston will be 8:00 PM. The golden hour with streetlights turning on will begin 30 minutes before sunset.

    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx


    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 – 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


    • May 26, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Sheldon Lake State Park
    Register

    Plein Air for Members

    Alla Adams, Coordinator

    Monday, May 26

    10:00 am - 2:00 pm


    Sheldon Lake State Park,

    14140 Garrett Rd., Houston,

    TX 77044


    Additional information regarding meeting location, etc. will be emailed to those who register before the event.

    This Plein Air event will focus on painting a lake and nature scenes.

    Join us for a day of artistic inspiration at Sheldon Lake State Park, where the tranquility of nature provides the perfect backdrop for plein air painting. Surrounded by lush greenery, shimmering waters, and thriving wildlife, artists of all levels are invited to capture the beauty of this pristine environment on paper. From peaceful lake views to vibrant flora, every scene is a masterpiece waiting to be painted. Bring your paints, brushes, and creative spirit to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this serene park!

    Click the link for a suggested supply list:  Plein Air - Supply List.docx

    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 – a lake and nature scenes in Plein Air!

    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


1601 West Alabama Houston TX 77006
Gallery: 713-942-9966
Questions? Email 
admin@watercolorhouston.org

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