Plein Air Painting a Slice of Paradise in the Caribbean

After a long winter in my studio working with encaustic wax, it has felt great to plein air paint in the Caribbean this spring break.

This year I wanted to travel lightly beacause I knew my painting time would be limited on this family vacation. So, I brought my smallest pochade box, and also packed my favorite solvent free paints by Cobra Water Mixable Oils, and a handy 9 x 12 pad of Arches Oil Paper.
I have cut each sheet into quarters and have been painting mini 4×6 pieces. That way, I’ve been able to paint one quick little study almost every day.
I also love to take photographs along the way and post them to Instagram. But, nothing truly captures the emotions of a place like a plein air painting.
The plein air paintings below are my own little personal ‘slice of paradise’ that I will take home with me. When I return to the snow country, these studies will warm me up and make me smile. I will remember the warm tropical breeze, the vivid Caribbean colors, the perfumed air, and the soft sand between my toes while I painted.

“Plein air painting leaves an impression not only on canvas, but also in the soul.” ~Lori McNee

I hope to see some of you in Monterey, California next month at the Plein Air Convention by Plein Air Magazine!