Plein air at Botanical Gardens with Mel Hills Term 2 2026

Plein air painting is about observational response and the adventure of being in the NOW.
How it is rendered/interpreted is up to the individual.

These sessions are best suited to artists with some prior painting experience that are wanting to extend their painting to the outdoors. It is a great way to develop skills, confidence and resilience.

Topics covered include subject selection, composition, the challenge of changing light conditions, and of course the weather! All this encourages you to work fast which is a great way to learn economy of line and form and loosen up.

Mel will be sketching and demonstrating using watercolour, pen and wash and oil paint.
Students are encouraged to use any media they want (and can carry easily) - branch out and try new things! Seriously, what you feel most comfortable with works best. Mel will share her experience and guide you as you respond to the landscape whilst encouraging you to work in your own style.