Viles Arboretum

FREE for members of Viles Arboretum; $35 suggested donation for non-members - which includes a membership to the Arboretum

This two-day workshop introduces participants to the world of plein air painting, whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience.

Plein air painting—the practice of painting outdoors—allows artists to capture the light, color, and atmosphere of a scene in real time. But where do you start? What gear do you need? How do you choose a subject? Should you sketch first or dive straight into painting?

What to Expect

The focus of this class is to introduce participants to plein air painting, how to prepare to paint outdoors, the equipment needed, how to set up in the field and the advantages and challenges that come along with it.

We'll start in the classroom to cover the basics, then head outdoors where participants can simply observe, or paint along with instructor Cassie Sano.

Cassie will go over the steps she takes to start and complete a painting. While she won't focus on a specific medium, participants are welcome to follow using oil and watercolor - or any medium they feel comfortable with.

Materials are not provided. Students are welcome to bring their own supplies based on their planned level of participation. While materials are optional, if you choose to bring your own, here’s what you’ll need:

• If you plan to observe and take notes, bring a notebook and pen.
• If you'd like to start with sketching, bring a dry media notebook, sketching pencils, erasers, and/or markers.
• If you'd like to jump right in, bring a canvas, paints, and brushes.

In addition, participants should bring a snack and lunch. A refrigerator and microwave will be available for those who need it. 

About the Instructor

Cassie Sano is a realist painter living in Augusta, Maine She enjoys painting outdoors, when the weather permits, and loves to paint in both oil and watercolor. 

Cassie also writes and illustrates picture story books through Maine Authors Publishing and regularly participates in author events throughout Maine. She is the organizer of the Kennebec Valley Plein Air Painters, a member of the River Arts Gallery, the Maine Art Gallery, Boothbay Regional Art Foundation, and the Red Barn Art Gallery in Port Clyde. 

She says, “From the time I first held a crayon, I felt a connection to art that was so powerful it was as if my creative spirit had a life of its own.”