Preparing to paint plein air is a feat of organization. Everything must be thought out and packed to travel. I went through all that and was ready on Thursday to meet up with a Plein Air painting group based in Manahawkin NJ. I noticed I was a little nervous driving to the designated spot, my mind racing through the checklist again, wondering who I would meet. Imagine how deflated I was when no one showed up.
I felt too shy to set up my easel alone at a busy beach entrance so I drove around hunting for a more solitary spot. This is what I found. After an hour the view just to the left was dotted with the white triangles of sailboats. If I turned halfway around there is a picturesque bait shack. I want to visit this spot again, packed to paint, with or without a group.
Plein air offers the challenge of exposure. An artist may feel vulnerable having a work in progress on display for all passers-by. The light changes fast and so must be captured quickly. But I find it fun and invigorating despite the challenges.
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