TCAA Plein Air Artists

It was a brisk day as the TCAA Tuesday painters made their way to Tolland, CT. This weeks choice was The Lodge, a natural setting on the backside of Crandall Park. The strong wind almost kept us away, but a good group did come by for a few hours of sketching or painting. The day started undecided as to clouds or sun. At mid morning, the sun came out to stay, which helped us all get a predictable light. The crew today consisted of Peg, Georgiana, Lynn, Jane, Kathy W. and me. Thanks to all the hardy souls who decided to spend the morning. I had my doubts if anyone would show, and was pleasantly surprised to see all of you. The Lodge, for those who have not been there, has a number of flowering bushes, flower gardens, some nice views of Crandall Pond 2, and lots of lovely trees of every shape and size. Occasionally a blue heron will wade through the water to fish, but not today. It is also a nice place for a rowboat or kayak, and dogs love to swim around in the water. There ...

Welcome to our new season of Plein Air painting. There will be a few new places this year that we have not previously visited, so that should be exciting and inspiring. This is an invitation to all TCAA members to recommend places you would like to paint or draw. Just email me - jmitastudios@gmail.com and I will put it into our summer schedule. We are looking for places that have a variety of subjects, a place to park, with emphasis on safety and mobility. Some of us come with easels, paints, tables and chairs to paint our morning away, so in most cases we don't want to have to hike a 1/2 mile to get to a good subject. Some recommendations when you join us, please think about how much sun may be shining. Hats with wide brims are really good, in case there is little shade. Many of the farms we visit are very open and have a lot of sun exposure. Sun block is always good. Some have purchased easel umbrellas to attach above their heads. These can be pricey but are worth the c...