The Full Story
The North Alabama Plein Air Group was launched by founder Sara Beth Fair in 2012 and recently restarted in 2024. It is meant to be an open-to-all painting group which meets at least monthly at a pre-decided location. The focus of the group is to showcase the north Alabama area for painting sessions with like minded individuals.
"I started this group in the hopes that plein air artists would gather on a regular basis in our area, as well as encourage new artist to join. In 2012, not many artist in this area were plein air painting and the closest groups were in the Nashville and south Alabama area. Today with the plein air movement going so strong world wide, it is a lot easier to get a small group together. In addition, we are so blessed with a variety of landscapes in this area as well as historic buildings that it is so important to document them through our art and spend a couple of hours each week really looking and learning."
Group Guidelines
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We welcome visitors to the area, locals, inexperienced and experienced artist; anyone who wants to bring their gear and paint with us.
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We meet at least monthly at a preset time.
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These are non instructed sessions exploring a variety of motifs from gardens, cityscapes, monuments, mountains, lakes, boats, farmland, animals....
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Any medium is acceptable - sketching, watercolor, oil, etc.
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There is no membership.
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The locations are announced approximately one week in advance here on this web page and on our Facebook and Instagram page. Please like and follow the page and check in on the pages regularly for the location.
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No RSVP generally is required. An event will be posted if you would like to respond that is fine but not necessary.
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There is no formal meeting place, just look for other artists and where you want to work and are inspired.
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We paint rain or shine with one person or none. Events may be cancelled if the weather shows severe storms, however, always use your best judgement as to whether it is too wet, slippery, hot or cold for you.
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Bring all your own gear.
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There may not be food establishments in the areas so be prepared and have water on hand.
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There may not be bathrooms, so be prepared to find a gas station etc.
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Finding and paying for parking is up to you, but I will try to find places where the distances are not too great.
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Some sites will require admission fees and when applicable these will be noted.
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I will try to be at all events but be prepared to go it alone if you are there.
Let’s Paint Together
Like our social media pages so you can stay up to date on the locations!