My plein air kit: what I bring when we paint outside
I have written previously about the value of painting outdoors. The memories and feelings we infuse into our work are brighter when we create outside, and it shows up in our brushwork.
I've also written about the value a supportive community can bring. I am part of a wonderful plein air artist group in Armidale, and we paint outside together on weekends. My favourite art memories are born of these outings; studio paintings tend to blur together by comparison. We're a motley crew of painters, poets, musicians and more, and our gatherings are a lovely way to unwind and talk shop.
The value of having a crew who uplift and inspire each other cannot be overstated (Armidale people - come join us, we'd love your company).
I also have a cargo bike converted into a "bike easel". It carries my gear, two dogs and me around Armidale in search of inspiration.
A sketchbook and pencil is really all you need to start, but this post shares the setup that works for me. It might help if you’re putting together your own kit.
The setup
Everything I need fits into a single backpack. That means I can hike to new spots, and it makes leaving the house much easier: if it’s not in the bag, it’s not coming. Having a grab-and-go kit removes a lot of friction.
Here’s a photo of the whole setup. I experimented with quite a few options before landing on this, and I’m very happy with it.
When I’m on the bike, the setup is almost the same. I leave the tripod at home and clamp the painting board to the bike instead. A tripod adapter from Jackson’s Art, with a quick-release plate, lets me mount the board either to the bike clamp or a regular easel with no fuss.
Backpack: Lowepro Flipside BP 400 AW
What’s inside:
Paper – 100% cotton watercolour paper (usually Arches or Baohong). Good paper makes everything easier.
Brushes – A small selection of sizes and shapes. My workhorse is a size 2 Alvaro Castagnet mop: it holds plenty of water and comes to a fine point. Most paintings could be done with it alone.
Brush holder – A small 3D-printed clip-on holder from Etsy with elastic loops for different brush sizes. Having brushes visible and within reach is essential for fast-drying watercolour.
Palette – Derivan Folding Watercolour Palette (small). It fits perfectly on the microphone shelf.
Paint – Tube paints, 12 colours in a small tin. I don’t carry greens; I prefer to mix them, as so many variations are possible.
Board – Marine plywood cut as large as will fit in the backpack. A second, larger board lives in the car. A 1/4" tripod adapter from Jackson’s Art is glued to the back.
Spray bottle – Small “perfume”-style bottle for re-wetting paint, misting paper, and adding texture.
Water cup – Metal cup clipped to the microphone shelf with a butterfly clip. Surprisingly sturdy.
Microphone shelf (metal) – Holds the palette and spray bottle. I started with plastic, but metal has proven more durable, even if it’s a bit heavier.
Tripod (LCS1) – Designed for plein air painting; light but stable.
Masking tape – To tape paper to the board. I don’t bother stretching; it dries flat enough for my purposes.
Miscellaneous – Water bottle, 2B pencil, eraser, tissues, mosquito repellent, phone.
The cargo e-bike is the "Urban Arrow Shorty" model.
Bonus: My old setup
Before this, I painted sitting down using a clever easel design by master watercolourist Joseph Zbukvic. It was a great system, but portability and my preference for standing eventually won out. Interestingly, Joseph also seems to favour standing these days.
If you’d like to try painting outdoors or simply connect with other artists, our Armidale plein air group meets regularly to paint, chat, and enjoy being outside. No experience required, and any medium is welcome.
All the details are here:
Find out more about the group.
or
Find me on instagram
