Sophie Baker, an experienced scientist, took an adventurous leap two years ago to become a full-time outdoor painter. Baker takes full advantage of the centuries-old practice of plein-air painting. Now, she brings the spirit of Australia’s rare wildlife to life in her colorful paintings. Whether it’s pouring rain or a day in the middle of a short-lived Seattle heatwave, the natural environment offers “limitless inspiration.”
Baker’s artistic practice includes regularly cycling into the Canberra bush with a large piece of canvas strapped to her back. To develop her art practice, she loads up her bike with painting equipment and sets off into the most scenic terrain, documenting her experience through colorful paintings. Her practice is currently on view in a solo exhibition at the Belconnen Arts Centre, located on the land of the Ngunnawal peoples. One particularly popular work, “Self Serving Artist’s Camp,” showcases the bounty of her al fresco versions.
This year, over 100 artists from across Australia, including Baker, have flocked to Canberra for the Capital Plein Air festival. The event not only highlights the beauty of outdoor painting but encourages participants and visitors alike to engage with nature through art.
The Transformation of Leon Holmes
Another festival painter Leon Holmes made the switch from studio painter to plein air professional. He says painting outside has irrevocably transformed him as an artist.
“I used to be a studio painter, and you’d be stuck in there telling yourself how good you were,” – Leon Holmes
Holmes loves the communal nature of painting outdoors, explaining how it benefits artists and viewers alike.
“But when you get outside, you’re actually amongst people and amongst nature, and it’s forever changing,” – Leon Holmes
In fact, he considers this relationship so crucial that he insists connecting with the community makes for a fuller painting experience. For Holmes, the nature surrounding them serves to inspire and spark creativity in ways a controlled studio space will never possess.
The Enduring Legacy of Warwick Fuller
Warwick Fuller, 45 years an accomplished plein-air painter, is one of the important guiding spiritual lights behind the success of this prestigious festival. He has accompanied King Charles III on four official tours Acts of the royal artist. Along the way, he has developed a rich and prolific artistic practice inspired by his travels.
“Over the four tours [King Charles III] collected 21 of my paintings, so that’s been an amazing thing,” – Warwick Fuller
Fuller makes a strong case for the healing powers of plein air painting, inviting us all to truly experience the natural world around us. He feels making art in public helps artists develop and change with what is around them.
“You have to work really fast with the elements; the light’s changing — but you’re so present in that moment,” – Natasha Ruschka
Ruschka, one of the other artists at the festival, agrees with Fuller, explaining that the outdoor environment is part to the process and enjoyment of painting. Through each one she illustrates the role of each painting, both as a physical remembrance of the surrounding space and emotional atmosphere present while creating the artwork itself.
The Festival’s Impact on Community Engagement
The Capital Plein Air festival has attracted visitors from across Australia, fostering a sense of community among artists and enthusiasts alike.
“It’s not just about the painting; it’s about the experience,” – Natasha Ruschka
Organizers have urged attendees to get out—and get in touch with their inner-artist. Fuller emphasizes that anyone can engage with art through outdoor painting.
“You’ve got nothing to lose except a bit of canvas and a bit of paint,” – Warwick Fuller
The purpose of festival is to encourage artists and non-artists alike to tap into their creativity and discover the hidden beauty in their environment. By taking Epic outdoor, we demonstrate that art is not limited to one venue or medium and art can succeed anywhere. It just requires an open mind and a desire to innovate!
