· Art History · 2 min read
The Rich History of Plein Air Painting
Exploring the evolution of plein air painting from its early beginnings to its modern practice across the world.
The Origins of Plein Air
The term “en plein air” comes from the French expression meaning “in the open air.” While artists have painted outdoors since ancient times, plein air painting as a dedicated practice emerged in the mid-19th century with the invention of transportable paint tubes and the box easel.
The Barbizon School
The Barbizon School, active from about 1830 to 1870, marked the first major movement of outdoor landscape painting. Artists like Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot and Theodore Rousseau escaped Paris to paint in the Forest of Fontainebleau, valuing direct observation of nature over academic studio techniques.
Impressionism: Revolution in the Open Air
Impressionism brought plein air painting to unprecedented prominence in the 1870s and 1880s. Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and their contemporaries used quick brushstrokes to capture changing light and atmospheric conditions, fundamentally changing how artists approached landscape painting.
Global Spread and California Impressionism
By the early 20th century, plein air painting had spread worldwide. California became a particular hotspot, with artists like Guy Rose and William Wendt forming colonies to capture the state’s unique light and landscapes, creating what became known as “California Impressionism.”
Modern Plein Air Movement
After a period of decline during the mid-20th century when abstract art dominated, plein air painting experienced a significant revival in the 1980s. Today, numerous plein air festivals, competitions, and dedicated groups exist worldwide, keeping this historic tradition alive while embracing modern materials and techniques.
The Enduring Appeal
Plein air painting continues to thrive because it offers what no studio practice can—the immediate sensory experience of a landscape. The challenge of changing light, weather conditions, and the need to work quickly creates a spontaneity and authenticity that resonates with both artists and collectors.
The practice has come full circle—from a revolutionary technique that broke academic traditions to a cherished approach that connects contemporary artists with both nature and artistic heritage.
