En Plein Air SA

Impressionism emerged in Paris in the late nineteenth century during a period of rapid social and technological change. New inventions, urbanisation, improved transport and the growing middle class transformed everyday life. Artists responded to these changes.

Leading Impressionist artists included Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet and Berthe Morisot. The movement takes its name from Monet’s painting Impression, Sunrise (1872), which captured the atmosphere and changing light of a harbour scene with loose, expressive brushwork.

En plein air is a French term meaning “in the open air” or simply “painting outdoors”. Rather than working exclusively in a studio, Impressionist artists took their easels outside to paint directly from nature and observe the effects of light, weather and atmosphere firsthand.

Working outdoors allowed artists to respond quickly to their surroundings, capturing shifting colours, moving clouds, changing shadows and everyday life as it unfolded. Their visible brushstrokes, bright colour palettes and focus on light marked a radical departure from traditional studio painting.

Participants are required to supply their own materials. All painting mediums and surfaces are welcome.

Bring along:

• Whatever you would like to paint/draw with e.g. paint sticks, watercolours or acrylics
• Sketchbook
• Brushes
• Water container
• Folding stool
• Picnic blanket
• Pencils
• Easel
• Sunscreen, hat, drink bottle, snacks

For beginners, simple materials such as watercolour and paper, or paint sticks are recommended.

These iconic South Australian locations are drop in and self-guided. Bring your own artist materials, or purchase a kit below.

Art Gallery of South Australia

Be inspired by thousands of works of art, then choose a corner outside to capture the play of light and colour against this iconic Adelaide location.

Adelaide Botanic Garden

Slow down, observe and connect with nature in this stunning location that shapes our environment and sense of place. Spend time immersed in this lush city oasis.

Barossa Regional Gallery

Explore the region at your own pace, observe your surroundings and capture a sense of place through drawing. Collect your artist kit from the Barossa Regional Gallery and enjoy a relaxed day of exploring and drawing your way through the Barossa.

Hahndorf Academy

Experience the charm of Hahndorf, wander at your own pace through the village, choosing inspiring locations to sketch its picturesque streets, heritage buildings, and distinctive landscape.

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

With its rolling hills and spectacularly colourful landscape, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden provides an inspiring setting to paint in the open air.

Sauerbier House

Sauerbier House invites you to utilise their beautiful grounds, offering the space to paint and draw. Complimentary hot drinks provided and a welcoming environment to all visiting artists.

Wittunga Botanic Garden

Connect with plants, waterways and wildlife, and be inspired by the vibrant flora in this nature-rich, peaceful garden this spring.