The Farms: Plein Air Painting

Experience Level: Beginner (ages 15+) 

Take your creativity outside at Plein Air Painting on Friday through Sunday, Sept. 4-6 from 12-4 p.m. outside and in the Studio. 

Plein air painting can feel overwhelming at first — easels, changing light, color mixing, wind, and trying to paint outdoors all at once! This workshop is designed especially for intermediate painters who want a supportive introduction to painting outside. If you have had some drawing and painting instruction, and are ready to continue increasing your skills and understanding, this workshop will be a great fit for you.

We’ll concentrate on the core skills that make plein air painting easier and more enjoyable. Students will learn how to set up their materials efficiently, simplify what they see, mix clean natural color, and recognize strong value relationships in the landscape.

We’ll work through short studies and practical exercises to build your confidence in handling paint and observing. You’ll also watch demos to help you understand the approach and decision-making process for creating a successful piece. This workshop is ideal for artists who are new to plein air painting or who want to strengthen their foundational painting skills in a relaxed environment. You’ll come away with all the tools you need to continue to explore the countryside, brush in hand!

All mediums are welcome.

$170/person*. Register here. Registration will close Aug. 28 or when capacity is reached. All sales are final

*Click here for a list of supplies. 


Learn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate, please email owarren@illinois.edu. 

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken. 


About the instructor:  

Deb Marett is a professional artist whose work  focuses on equestrian scenes, figurative scenes, and portraiture. She always travels with watercolors & a travel journal. “It is an amazing way to remember moments of the trip, and spend time soaking up the places I visit.” Deb loves sharing her knowledge and teaching, and finding ways to make painting and drawing fun and accessible to anyone who wants to explore their creative side. 


About The Farms 

The Farms: An Allerton Folk School, offers classes, workshops, and gatherings focusing on art, outdoor education, science, storytelling, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on, experiential teaching and learning, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community. 

Find the complete Fall schedule here. 

Date
Sep 04 2026
Time
12:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Local Time

  • Timezone: America/New_York
  • Date: Sep 04 2026
  • Time: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
More Info
REGISTER HERE
Category
REGISTER HERE