Tips To Help You Build Confidence To Draw Outside

Drawing outside, also known as plein air drawing, offers a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to connect with nature while creating art. However, drawing in outdoor settings can be daunting for many artists due to unpredictable weather, unfamiliar environments, or concerns about the quality of their work. Building confidence to draw outside involves overcoming these challenges and embracing the unique opportunities that outdoor drawing provides. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips and strategies to help you gain confidence and make the most of your outdoor drawing experiences.

1. Start with Simple Sketches

If you’re new to drawing outside, begin with simple sketches to build your confidence. Focus on basic shapes, lines, and forms rather than complex compositions.

Suggestions for Simple Sketches:

Landscapes: Sketching basic elements of a landscape, such as trees, hills, and water, can help you get accustomed to drawing outdoors.
Still Life: Set up a small still life arrangement with objects like fruits or flowers. This allows you to practice drawing without the pressure of a dynamic environment.
Basic Shapes: Start with basic geometric shapes or simple natural forms. This helps you get comfortable with your materials and the outdoor setting.

2. Choose a Comfortable and Convenient Location

Selecting the right location can make a significant difference in your outdoor drawing experience.

Tips for Choosing a Location:

Familiar Spots: Begin in a familiar outdoor area where you feel comfortable and relaxed. Familiarity can reduce anxiety and help you focus on your drawing.
Convenient Access: Choose a location with easy access to amenities like restrooms, shade, or seating. This ensures you have everything you need for a productive drawing session.
Scenic Inspiration: Pick a spot with interesting visual elements that inspire you. A location with diverse textures, colors, and shapes can provide ample opportunities for creativity.

3. Prepare Your Materials

Having the right materials and being well-prepared can boost your confidence when drawing outside.

Essential Drawing Materials:

Portable Supplies: Use lightweight and portable drawing supplies, such as sketchbooks, compact pencil cases, and travel-sized easels.
Weather Protection: Bring materials that are resistant to weather conditions. Waterproof sketchbooks and pens can help protect your work from unexpected rain.
Comfort Items: Consider packing items like a comfortable chair, hat, or sunscreen to make your outdoor drawing experience more enjoyable.

4. Practice Sketching Outdoors Regularly

Regular practice is key to building confidence. The more you draw outside, the more comfortable and skilled you’ll become.

Strategies for Regular Practice:

Set a Schedule: Establish a routine for drawing outdoors. Set aside specific times each week or month to practice, whether it’s during a weekend outing or a short daily sketch.
Join a Group: Consider joining a local plein air drawing group or class. Drawing with others can provide motivation, feedback, and camaraderie.
Challenge Yourself: Set small, achievable goals for each outdoor drawing session. Challenge yourself to try new techniques, capture different subjects, or experiment with various mediums.

5. Embrace the Imperfections

Drawing outside comes with its own set of challenges, including changing light, unpredictable weather, and varying environments. Embrace these imperfections as part of the experience.

Tips for Embracing Imperfections:

Adapt and Improvise: Be flexible and adapt to changing conditions. If the light shifts or the weather changes, adjust your drawing approach accordingly.
Focus on the Process: Enjoy the process of drawing rather than solely focusing on the final result. Each outdoor sketch is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Celebrate Mistakes: Mistakes are a natural part of the creative process. Use them as learning experiences and incorporate them into your work.

6. Build a Routine for Setup and Breakdown

Having a streamlined routine for setting up and packing up can help reduce stress and make your outdoor drawing sessions more efficient.

Setup and Breakdown Tips:

Organize Your Gear: Arrange your materials and tools in a way that’s easy to access and transport. Use a portable carrying case or bag to keep everything organized.
Plan Your Space: Choose a setup that works best for your drawing style. Whether you prefer sitting, standing, or using an easel, ensure your setup is comfortable and practical.
Pack Smartly: After drawing, pack up your materials systematically. Check that you haven’t left anything behind and make sure your artwork is protected.

7. Develop a Personal Style

Developing your own drawing style can enhance your confidence and make outdoor drawing more enjoyable.

Ways to Develop Your Style:

Experiment: Try different techniques, styles, and approaches to see what resonates with you. Experiment with various drawing tools, textures, and compositions.
Analyze Your Work: Reflect on your previous outdoor sketches and identify elements that you like. Incorporate these elements into your future work to create a cohesive style.
Seek Inspiration: Study the work of other outdoor artists and plein air painters. Analyze their techniques and incorporate aspects that inspire you into your own drawings.

8. Stay Motivated and Positive

Maintaining a positive mindset and staying motivated can significantly impact your confidence and enjoyment of outdoor drawing.

Tips for Staying Motivated:

Set Personal Goals: Set achievable goals for your outdoor drawing sessions, such as completing a certain number of sketches or mastering a new technique.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress and improvements. Take pride in your growth as an artist, no matter how small the achievements.
Stay Inspired: Keep yourself inspired by exploring new locations, subjects, and drawing challenges. Stay curious and open to new experiences.

9. Connect with the Environment

Drawing outside offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and your surroundings. Embrace this connection to enhance your confidence and creativity.

Ways to Connect with the Environment:

Observe Closely: Take time to observe your surroundings and appreciate the details. Notice the colors, textures, and patterns that you can incorporate into your drawing.
Immerse Yourself: Engage with your environment by listening to the sounds, feeling the textures, and observing the movement. Let these sensory experiences influence your artwork.
Reflect on the Experience: After each drawing session, take a moment to reflect on your experience and how it impacted your work. This reflection can deepen your connection to your art and the environment.

Conclusion

Drawing outside can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering new perspectives and inspirations. By following these tips and building your confidence, you can overcome the challenges of plein air drawing and fully embrace the joys of creating art in natural settings. Start with simple sketches, choose comfortable locations, prepare your materials, practice regularly, and embrace imperfections. With time and persistence, you’ll develop the confidence and skills needed to capture the beauty of the outdoors through your art. Happy drawing!

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