Allerton Park & Retreat Center

Experience Level: All Levels 

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. 

Students will start with a brief discussion each day at the designated meeting location then head outdoors to paint with their preferred medium. Instructor Deb Marett will guide students in this unique opportunity to capture the true colors, light, and atmosphere of the park as it changes in real time. Working directly in nature will challenge artists to respond quickly to shifting light and weather leading to dynamic and expressive brushwork. Not only will students grow in their technique, but plein air painting often lends itself to a restorative and calming practice. 

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 bring: 
— Medium of their choice (i.e. oils, acrylics, watercolor, pastel) in a portable palette 
— Plein Air easel suitable for the medium of choice (the easel needs to be flat for watercolors) 
— Brushes in various sizes suitable for the medium of choice 
— Canvas panels, Watercolor paper, or other paper suitable for medium of choice in a block or on a board taped down. Please have enough for several paintings 
— Small Sketch pad and pencil 
— Rags/paper towels as you use in your practice and trash bags for disposal 
— Water bottle and container for rinsing brushes  
— Tote bag for easy carrying  

Other suggested items: 

— Sunscreen & bug spray 
— Brimmed Hat 
— Folding chair or stool 
— Refillable water bottle & snacks 
— Gloves if you use them in your practice  

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.