Scarlett and Indigo Archives
Dear
Scarlet and Indigo:
Now
that were in the thick of winter, I’m day-dreaminq about summer —
when I can be outdoors painting. What tips can you give me to make
it an easier experience?
We love the great outdoors as much as anyone, but painting outside can be a problem. From carrying all the equipment to unpredictable lighting, to changeable weather conditions, a successful painter must think ahead and be prepared. Which is what you’re doing by asking us this question now.
It would be nice to wake up one pretty summer day, stretch and jump into the car to go out to a favorite spot and paint...right? By having yourself (and your stuff) prepared ahead of time, the experience will be much more rewarding...and fun, too!
There
are millions of suggestions for how to decide what supplies to take and how to
carry them, but one main rule of thumb is... Can you carry it — by yourself
— in one trip... without gasping for air? Our personal suggestion is
to pare down your typical setup by about a fourth! Sounds like a lot, but think
back to the days when you started painting, and decide what are the most
necessary items to accomplish what you want to paint.
The
main items Scarlett takes are paper, support
board, clamps, favorite paint colors, favorite brushes (just a couple), water
dish, canteen with clean water, sketch pad and pencils, something to carry it
all in, a lightweight stool, and a great snack! (If you are painting near your
car, just put all the rest of your stuff in there, and you can go back and get
it if you need it!
Painting
outside is about mainly sketching and roughing out your painting. It isn’t
mandatory to complete your “masterpiece” on your outing. Remember to take
lots of photos to help you later when you are back in the studio finishing the
piece — like now, in the dead of winter.
When
finding the perfect spot, comfort should be your first concern if you want to
devote yourself to your painting. Sitting or standing, holding support board or
laying it on something (or on an easel, if you choose to carry one with you),
sun or shade (Indigo is a sun worshipper; Scarlett
is a wilting flower without at least some shade) are a few of the important
aspects to keep in mind. If you are comfortable, you will find something
wonderful to paint, trust us!
And
last, but not least, try to be prepared for all weather conditions. (Most of us
live in Montana, remember?) Wear layers of clothes that you can take off or put
on as necessary. Tuck in a lightweight train cover or even a trash bag for
emergencies. And speaking of trash.. bring it all ~ Wear a hat, sunscreen, and
bug spray.., and most of all, a smile!
from
MTWS FALL 2000 Newsletter
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