What is Plein Air?

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Plein air painting is the practice of painting outdoors, directly in the landscape, to capture the immediate, fleeting effects of natural light and atmosphere, using the French term for "in the open air". Popularized by the Impressionists, this method emphasizes spontaneity and sensory experience, contrasting with studio work by requiring artists to work quickly to render the true colors and feel of a scene before conditions change, focusing on landscapes but applicable to any outdoor subject.