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
