Allerton Park & Retreat Center

Experience Level: Intermediate 

Get outside and express your creativity at Plein Air Painting on Friday through Sunday, Sept. 4 through 6 from 12 to 4 p.m. in the Studio. 

Plein air painting can feel overwhelming at first — easels, changing light, color mixing, wind, and trying to paint outdoors all at once! This workshop is designed especially for intermediate painters who want a supportive introduction to painting outside. If you have had some drawing and painting instruction, and are ready to continue increasing your skills and understanding, this workshop will be a great fit for you.

Instructor Deb Marett will lead students on the core skills that make plein air painting easier and more enjoyable. Students will learn how to set up their materials efficiently, simplify what they see, mix clean natural color, and recognize strong value relationships in the landscape.

Students will work through short studies and practical exercises to build your confidence in handling paint and observing. You’ll also watch demos to help you understand the approach and decision-making process for creating a successful piece. This workshop is ideal for artists who are new to plein air painting or who want to strengthen their foundational painting skills in a relaxed environment. You’ll come away with all the tools you need to continue to explore the countryside, brush in hand!

All painting mediums are welcome including oils, acrylics, watercolor, and pastel. 

$175/person* (ages 15+). Regististration closes on Aug. 28 or when capacity is reached. All sales are final. 

*Students should plan to bring their favorite painting supplies in the medium of their choice. Please find a full supply list here.

Learn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate, please email owarren@illinois.edu. 

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken. 

About the instructor 

Deb Marrett is a professional artist whose work focuses on equestrian and figurative scenes as well as portraiture. She always travels with her watercolors and a travel journal. 

“It is an amazing way to remember moments of the trip, and spend time soaking up the places I visit,” she said. 

Deb loves sharing her knowledge by teaching and finding ways to make painting and drawing fun and accessible to those wanting to explore their creative side.