Blog

“What to Take on the Journey”

Maybe I should start this article with the phrase of “what not to take”, rather the necessary items you will need, not want. The art suppliers’ sites are so full of things that you absolutely “need” to survive out there that it can make your shopping experience overwhelming. Over time, you will as I have, narrowed the field of items to what you “need” as opposed to “want”, and create a very efficient and effective pack.

A suggestion here is to start your plein air experience out of the car. It’s much easier to have access to necessities, and a warm dry refuge when the inevitable happens. Planning your excursion is critical from the start, but also allow for spontaneity. Start the journey with a friend or family member for both security and comfort.

Teaming up with plein air groups can be a great way to the introduction to the journey. Ask questions, observe, and listen to these folks about the many facets of this great experience. These organizations can be accessed on the internet and in the Plein Air Magazine. Some have outings weekly, weather permitting, and offer several different subjects of interest to paint. Again, please don’t feel intimidated when starting out in this new venue. Believe me, each artist in the group is still a student and most are very helpful in sharing what they’ve learned along the way. I have found most artists to be very open to sharing their knowledge to any sincere student. Trust me, I am on a continual learning experience and am so eager for folks to help this country boy in improving his skills.

Okay, so what do you take with you on these great outdoor excursions? Well here I would say immediately, be prepared as though you would for a hike or a picnic as far as your personal comfort. All my plein air “necessities” are packed in one of two backpacks for different purposes. You must adjust your own packs to fit your life, not mine, and additionally the environment you live. I live in Colorado and have experienced snow in every month. I doubt you would pack the same in Georgia, right? If you’re working close to your vehicle, you have the advantage of bringing more and accessing when needed. That said, I still pack the items in both packs to be out the door in ten minutes. If you take an extended hike, condense the items down into one pack.

The separate packs are for two disciplines of art. The larger being for oils, the smaller for pen and ink and watercolor. This allows for a better measure of spontaneity for me. There are several to be considered. I just happened to find mine from North Face and REI. They have several compartments, closures, and dividers for different items. I must admit to being somewhat obsessive about the placement of items in the pack. Every item has its compartment and is always returned to the same place, except when a thunderstorm comes over you and you must “bust it” quickly.

I learned this organization from my backpacking days. If I couldn’t find all my items in the dark, as happened many times, then it wasn’t packed correctly. Pre-planning for an enjoyable “out there” experience is paramount to me.

Allow flexibility to your day or schedule, but always, especially when you are out by yourself, tell folks where you are going and about the timing for that excursion. Carry your cell phone and keep it on. You can mute it, but as long as it’s on folks can find you if necessary. Pick up one of those quick charge battery systems for back up. You’ll need water, food, snacks, etc., suited to your own personal desires. Keep these at a minimum as the bulk and weight can become an issue. When going into the back country, a water purification tool is very helpful.

I will be much more specific in the suggestions for the packs in the next part of this series, having the items listed for more clarification.

Remember less is more when considering this adventure!

I would really enjoy your feedback on this article. Please leave your comments.

Until next time, have fun and enjoy the journey-
May God Bless-
Ken Pieper
http://kenpieper.fineartstudioonline.com/