PLEIN AIR ESSENTIALS
PLEIN AIR ESSENTIALS
NH & Maine Seacoast
July 17 - September 11, 2023 (7) Mondays (1-4pm)
(Limit 12) $315
Join us for an inspiring journey into the world of plein air painting, where you will discover the secrets to capturing the beauty and essence of the outdoor environment on canvas. In this immersive class, we will delve into the techniques, strategies, and mindset necessary to excel in plein air painting.
Throughout the course, you will receive expert guidance from Todd Bonita, who will share his knowledge and experiences, providing you with invaluable insights and practical tips to improve your skills. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced painter, this class will enhance your abilities and enable you to create stunning plein air artworks.
The curriculum is designed to cover a wide range of topics and aspects of plein air painting. We will explore fundamental principles such as composition, color theory, light and shadow, and perspective. You will learn how to select compelling subjects, analyze the landscape, and create dynamic compositions that truly capture the essence of the scene.
We will also delve into various painting techniques specific to plein air, including brushwork, capturing fleeting light effects, creating atmospheric perspective, and portraying textures found in nature. Through demonstrations and hands-on exercises, you will gain a deeper understanding of these techniques and develop the confidence to apply them in your own artwork.
Moreover, we will discuss the importance of observation and honing your artistic intuition in the outdoor setting. You will learn how to overcome the challenges of changing light, weather conditions, and time constraints, and adapt them to your advantage. We will also delve into the art of quick studies and capturing the essence of a scene swiftly and confidently.
This class will provide you with ample opportunities to practice your skills through outdoor painting sessions in picturesque locations. You will receive personalized feedback and constructive critique from both the instructor and your peers, fostering growth and improvement in your artistic journey.
Unlocking the Secrets to Plein Air Painting is not just a class; it is an invitation to embrace the beauty of nature, sharpen your artistic vision, and immerse yourself in the joy of painting en plein air. Come join us and unlock the secrets that will elevate your plein air painting to new heights
* No Class July 31 and August 21, 2023.
REFGISTER: Email Todd: [email protected] or call (603) 819-9100
NH & Maine Seacoast
July 17 - September 11, 2023 (7) Mondays (1-4pm)
(Limit 12) $315
Join us for an inspiring journey into the world of plein air painting, where you will discover the secrets to capturing the beauty and essence of the outdoor environment on canvas. In this immersive class, we will delve into the techniques, strategies, and mindset necessary to excel in plein air painting.
Throughout the course, you will receive expert guidance from Todd Bonita, who will share his knowledge and experiences, providing you with invaluable insights and practical tips to improve your skills. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced painter, this class will enhance your abilities and enable you to create stunning plein air artworks.
The curriculum is designed to cover a wide range of topics and aspects of plein air painting. We will explore fundamental principles such as composition, color theory, light and shadow, and perspective. You will learn how to select compelling subjects, analyze the landscape, and create dynamic compositions that truly capture the essence of the scene.
We will also delve into various painting techniques specific to plein air, including brushwork, capturing fleeting light effects, creating atmospheric perspective, and portraying textures found in nature. Through demonstrations and hands-on exercises, you will gain a deeper understanding of these techniques and develop the confidence to apply them in your own artwork.
Moreover, we will discuss the importance of observation and honing your artistic intuition in the outdoor setting. You will learn how to overcome the challenges of changing light, weather conditions, and time constraints, and adapt them to your advantage. We will also delve into the art of quick studies and capturing the essence of a scene swiftly and confidently.
This class will provide you with ample opportunities to practice your skills through outdoor painting sessions in picturesque locations. You will receive personalized feedback and constructive critique from both the instructor and your peers, fostering growth and improvement in your artistic journey.
Unlocking the Secrets to Plein Air Painting is not just a class; it is an invitation to embrace the beauty of nature, sharpen your artistic vision, and immerse yourself in the joy of painting en plein air. Come join us and unlock the secrets that will elevate your plein air painting to new heights
* No Class July 31 and August 21, 2023.
REFGISTER: Email Todd: [email protected] or call (603) 819-9100
ART SUPPLIES
(Think light weight and portable, find creative ways to simplify...I manage to pack everything below in a back pack and hit the trail. I get most of my supplies online at ASW, Jerrys Artarama, Dick Blick, Cheap Joes or Utrecht).
(Click here for an illustrated page detailing my Plein air kit).
Portable Easel
French easel, half box easel or Pochade box for working outside.
(I use the 10x12" Open Box M system and sometimes the 6x8" Guerilla box for smaller work, both are mounted to a photographers tripod. I use a $35 photographers tripod I bought at Wall Mart. If you prefer the French easels, go with the lighter and smaller Jullian Half box easel. Last year I also bought the Cadillac of outdoor easels, The Soletek easel. It's not cheap, I bought mine used on Ebay. You might check Ebay or try "All of Craigslist" search for whatever easel you decide to go with. * Here is a terrific article on Pochade Box reviews from the popular Lines and Colors blog. This will give you a thorough understanding of whats available and best for you. Click here.
Palette
I recommend a wood palette. I have glass too for one of my boxes...try to avoid paper pallets.
Paint
*(I recommend a minimal palette of a warm and cool version of the three primaries plus white (with maybe a few extras)....Please spend the extra for professional grade paints. I use Williamsburg, Winsor & Newton, Gamblin and Utrecht but there are many good options.)
Alkyd White (Alkyd is a quick dry paint that plays nice with oils. For brands, Gamblin, DaVinci and my favorite is by C.A.S. Alkyd Pro)
Titanium White
Cad Yellow
Yellow ochre
Alizeran Crimson
Cadmium Red
Ultramarine Blue
Cobalt Blue or Cerulean Blue
Burnt Sienna
Greenish Umber (By Rembrandt), Olive Green or Terre Vert (*Optional)
Viridian (*Optional)
Ivory black (*Optional)
raw or burnt umber (*Optional)
Painting surface
Canvas, canvas or linen mounted on board or gessoed wood panel (sizes can range from 6x8” to 14x18” but I would not go larger)...(Bring enough for two paintings each day.
Brushes
*Assortment of bristle brushes (I suggest large, medium and small in three styles: Flats, Rounds and Filberts. I mostly use Robert Simmons Signet series flats #3, #6 and #10)
*One or two Royal sable flats in medium and large sizes (size 10 or 16) for blending and softening edges (I prefer Langnickel.)
*Small synthetic rounds for details. (I suggest Winsor and Newton Septre Gold 2 in the 404 series...size 4 and / or size 6)
Other
Trowel type Pallet knife
liquin and pallet cup
Gamsol (Turpentine substitute) with container or medium glass jar
paper towels (Blue shop towels are the best)
Soft pencil, eraser and sketchbook
Ruler, straight edge or a mahl stick (something to make straight lines with is handy)
A Veiwfinder: Important! Whether homemade or store bought, it must be adjustable or proportionate to your canvases. Viewcatcher is ideal.
Artist paint box or back pack for supplies
Wet paint carrier. I love the PanelPaks...they are lightweight and convenient.
*Appropriate clothing for outdoor weather and conditions.
Optional
Hat
sunglasses
Water bottle or something to drink, snack
Sun block
Bug spray
If you are uncomfortable standing you may consider a portable folding chair
Wheeled caddy for supplies if necessary
Camera
Umbrella
(Click here for an illustrated page detailing my Plein air kit).
Portable Easel
French easel, half box easel or Pochade box for working outside.
(I use the 10x12" Open Box M system and sometimes the 6x8" Guerilla box for smaller work, both are mounted to a photographers tripod. I use a $35 photographers tripod I bought at Wall Mart. If you prefer the French easels, go with the lighter and smaller Jullian Half box easel. Last year I also bought the Cadillac of outdoor easels, The Soletek easel. It's not cheap, I bought mine used on Ebay. You might check Ebay or try "All of Craigslist" search for whatever easel you decide to go with. * Here is a terrific article on Pochade Box reviews from the popular Lines and Colors blog. This will give you a thorough understanding of whats available and best for you. Click here.
Palette
I recommend a wood palette. I have glass too for one of my boxes...try to avoid paper pallets.
Paint
*(I recommend a minimal palette of a warm and cool version of the three primaries plus white (with maybe a few extras)....Please spend the extra for professional grade paints. I use Williamsburg, Winsor & Newton, Gamblin and Utrecht but there are many good options.)
Alkyd White (Alkyd is a quick dry paint that plays nice with oils. For brands, Gamblin, DaVinci and my favorite is by C.A.S. Alkyd Pro)
Titanium White
Cad Yellow
Yellow ochre
Alizeran Crimson
Cadmium Red
Ultramarine Blue
Cobalt Blue or Cerulean Blue
Burnt Sienna
Greenish Umber (By Rembrandt), Olive Green or Terre Vert (*Optional)
Viridian (*Optional)
Ivory black (*Optional)
raw or burnt umber (*Optional)
Painting surface
Canvas, canvas or linen mounted on board or gessoed wood panel (sizes can range from 6x8” to 14x18” but I would not go larger)...(Bring enough for two paintings each day.
Brushes
*Assortment of bristle brushes (I suggest large, medium and small in three styles: Flats, Rounds and Filberts. I mostly use Robert Simmons Signet series flats #3, #6 and #10)
*One or two Royal sable flats in medium and large sizes (size 10 or 16) for blending and softening edges (I prefer Langnickel.)
*Small synthetic rounds for details. (I suggest Winsor and Newton Septre Gold 2 in the 404 series...size 4 and / or size 6)
Other
Trowel type Pallet knife
liquin and pallet cup
Gamsol (Turpentine substitute) with container or medium glass jar
paper towels (Blue shop towels are the best)
Soft pencil, eraser and sketchbook
Ruler, straight edge or a mahl stick (something to make straight lines with is handy)
A Veiwfinder: Important! Whether homemade or store bought, it must be adjustable or proportionate to your canvases. Viewcatcher is ideal.
Artist paint box or back pack for supplies
Wet paint carrier. I love the PanelPaks...they are lightweight and convenient.
*Appropriate clothing for outdoor weather and conditions.
Optional
Hat
sunglasses
Water bottle or something to drink, snack
Sun block
Bug spray
If you are uncomfortable standing you may consider a portable folding chair
Wheeled caddy for supplies if necessary
Camera
Umbrella
Todd Bonita Bio
Todd Bonita
I fell in love with the ocean while growing up in Winthrop, Massachusetts, a small New England harbor town outside of Boston. After graduating from the Art Institute of Boston, I continued post baccaulaurette study of classical painting and drawing at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia. A twelve year career as an illustrator, that included a creatively-explorative period, working as a muralist, sculptor and designer followed. I focused full time on fine art oil painting in 2006, creating works for art galleries and collectors. I currently maintain a small studio space at The Button Factory artist studios in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I love painting coastal New England imagery outdoors in plein air, equally as much as crafting more involved compositions in my studio. Above all, I love the process and simple joy of being with my tools and painting. My work is currently represented by ten art galleries around New England, Florida and the UK. and is in hundreds of corporate and private collections world wide, including 41st U.S. President, George H. W. Bush. I have had the good fortune to have exhibited in four Art museums and I am blessed to call this craft that I love my full-time occupation. I currently own and operate the Todd Bonita Art Gallery in both Ogunquit, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I am also co-owner of the Ogunquit Summer School of Art where I teach painting classes and art workshops year round. I live on the New Hampshire seacoast with my wife Alison, son Max and daughter Kate.
Life is good.
I fell in love with the ocean while growing up in Winthrop, Massachusetts, a small New England harbor town outside of Boston. After graduating from the Art Institute of Boston, I continued post baccaulaurette study of classical painting and drawing at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia. A twelve year career as an illustrator, that included a creatively-explorative period, working as a muralist, sculptor and designer followed. I focused full time on fine art oil painting in 2006, creating works for art galleries and collectors. I currently maintain a small studio space at The Button Factory artist studios in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I love painting coastal New England imagery outdoors in plein air, equally as much as crafting more involved compositions in my studio. Above all, I love the process and simple joy of being with my tools and painting. My work is currently represented by ten art galleries around New England, Florida and the UK. and is in hundreds of corporate and private collections world wide, including 41st U.S. President, George H. W. Bush. I have had the good fortune to have exhibited in four Art museums and I am blessed to call this craft that I love my full-time occupation. I currently own and operate the Todd Bonita Art Gallery in both Ogunquit, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I am also co-owner of the Ogunquit Summer School of Art where I teach painting classes and art workshops year round. I live on the New Hampshire seacoast with my wife Alison, son Max and daughter Kate.
Life is good.