Kimberly A. Levi

The term "Plein air" is a French word which means "open air" this is used as a descriptive term in the fine art world to label the art which is created on location by landscape painters. Usually the landscape paintings which I create are originally done on lacation in a small format 9" x 12" panels or smaller. I will also take photo's of the landscape and the study painting against the background of the actual scene painted. These techniques provide a reliable source of information for creating the studio works. I paint with alkyd oil paint or pastels both on location and in the studio. There is a unique quality which is gleened from experiencing the scenery in real life that translates into the art. There is also a time limit because of changing lighting which forces me to get the essence of the scene without getting cought up in needless details. Since I want to capture the mood and essence of the scene, at that particular moment, this technique works well in bringing out the qualities which I most strive to achieve.