Plein Speaking

Tips & Tricks for Plein Air Artists

Louise Sackett’s journey as a plein air painter is a compelling exploration of the Southwest’s unique landscapes and vibrant natural light. Through her dedication to painting outdoors, she captures the region’s vast deserts, rugged mountains, and colorful skies with authenticity and sensitivity. Her work reflects not only the visual beauty of the environment but also its mood and atmosphere, revealing a deep connection to places that resonates in every brushstroke.

Adriana Hunt 6/25/12 Adriana Hunt 6/25/12

No. 3 in the Limited Palette Challenge

Adriana Hunt 6/20/12 Adriana Hunt 6/20/12

What on Earth is That Noise?

Adriana Hunt 6/11/12 Adriana Hunt 6/11/12

It's the Location

Adriana Hunt 5/31/12 Adriana Hunt 5/31/12

Challenge Yourself

Adriana Hunt 5/27/12 Adriana Hunt 5/27/12

How Do You Work?

Adriana Hunt 5/25/12 Adriana Hunt 5/25/12

Just Do It !

Adriana Hunt 5/20/12 Adriana Hunt 5/20/12

Is EVERYTHING a series of choices?

Adriana Hunt 5/18/12 Adriana Hunt 5/18/12

From a Sketch to a Painting - Out of My Comfort Zone

Adriana Hunt 5/15/12 Adriana Hunt 5/15/12

Moving to New Mexico - Here’s To A New Adventure

Adriana Hunt 5/15/12 Adriana Hunt 5/15/12

Oh Bother - Rejected and Profit?

Adriana Hunt 5/12/12 Adriana Hunt 5/12/12

The Concept and the Passion

David Leffel says painting is all about the concept—a passion-driven vision that defines the work. Some days, it’s hard to find that passion, especially with distractions like laundry or a motorcycle ride with my husband. But I keep feeding my passion by painting whenever I can.

This week, I watched a DVD by Thomas Kegler, whose work in the green forests of New York shows how important a strong concept is. Inspired by Kevin McPherson’s pond series, I’ve decided to start my own series of Wind Canyon, capturing its subtle seasonal changes. Here's my first study.

Adriana Hunt 5/9/12 Adriana Hunt 5/9/12

Obstinacy - A Prerequisite for Plein Air

For me, plein air painting is about more than just capturing the scene—it's about learning something new with every piece. Inspired by John Cosby’s idea that “Perfect Practice Makes Perfect,” I focus on making intentional decisions, not just repeating what I’ve done before. This week, I challenged myself to limit the darks in a painting of Apache Plume, aiming for a lighter touch. The real challenge wasn’t the wind, but sticking to my self-imposed limitations. Painting is about the journey and constant growth, driven by both passion and intellect.

Adriana Hunt 5/7/12 Adriana Hunt 5/7/12

Some of 'Em Are Sail Paintings!

It’s been busy lately, so after setting up a mirror in my studio to help spot issues with my work, I took a break and went out to paint. I headed to Mimbres Valley, but instead of the typical scenes, I painted two ruins. The result didn’t turn out as expected, but I learned more from this piece than many others. I also met a lovely couple, the Songs of San Lorenzo, who invited me to return and paint from their land. It reminded me that being open to others can lead to unexpected rewards.

Adriana Hunt 5/4/12 Adriana Hunt 5/4/12

Priorities - Its Always Priorities

Building my studio started with a vision in my mind, as all creative work does. The process of planning and executing—like in art—requires careful thought and order. My studio will allow me to expand on my plein air studies, which are the spark for my ideas. As I get older, creative time feels more precious, making it even more important to plan and act with intention. The studio supports this, but plein air will always be central to my work.