St. Augustine, Florida is nicknamed the Ancient City because it claims to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the United States.  Last week was their annual plein air festival run by the St. Augustine Art Association.

Seventy artists signed up to participate including me.

The event kicked off with a Sunday brunch followed by a quick draw competition. The participating artists gathered on the grounds of the Lightner Museum. We all chose a spot to paint. I did a number of sketches working out my composition. When the fog horn blew we picked up our brushes or pastel sticks and began. My piece "Tower Palms" was given one of the three awards. 

The following day it rained all day so I opted out and caught up on some computer work.  Tuesday the sun reappeared and a couple of us sought out good views of some shrimp boats. The thing about boats is that they tend to move.

So when the fishermen arrived we got a little nervous and had to adjust our compositions. I did a close up. 

The next day we went to The Collector. A small enclave built by Henry Flagler and recently restored and turned into bed and breakfast stays. So many pretty gardens and old walls and buildings to choose from. The sun was in full force now so shade was the most important  thing to me at this point.  So I found a shady spot and started sketching. 

For my last morning to paint I headed out to Aviles Street. It's a favorite among painters, so I wasn't alone. There are several art galleries, a museum and lots of restaurants. If you go to St. Augustine I recommend you investigate Aviles Street. 

I ended up with four very different paintings and some important new knowledge. I always learn a lot by painting outside. The show opening is Friday May 4. If you are in the area please stop by! 

Do me a favor and scroll down and leave a comment. Do you have any questions about plein air painting? I'd love to hear them and hopefully answer them.

Leah