Intro to Plein Air with Carly Ellis
Five Saturdays, September 13-October 18, 9-11 a.m. (No Class September 27)
Cost: $140, there is a supply list for this class
This outdoor class is designed for artists with, or without, plein air experience who are looking to deepen their practice in a natural setting. Working exclusively with oil paint, students will explore techniques in composition, color mixing and brushwork while responding to the unique challenges and inspiration of painting on location. Each session will take place in a different scenic spot, encouraging artists to observe closely, paint expressively and build confidence working outdoors.
The first session will take place at the Spokane Art School and will include a demonstration covering the basics of plain air set up, color theory, mixing and composition. The following four sessions will be held at Manito Park, where students will paint in different locations each week, focusing on light, mixing natural color, composing strong landscapes and developing finished pieces.
Intro to Plein Air Painting Supply List * You can wait to purchase these items until after the first class, when options will be discussed.
Meet Your Instructor
Carly Ellis
Carly Ellis is a painter based in Spokane, Washington, originally from Maryland. She earned her BFA with a minor in Art History from Eastern Washington University. While she explores various mediums—ranging from photoweavings to sculpture—her primary focus is oil painting. Carly frequently works en plein air, capturing the natural world directly from observation. Her art explores themes of nature, memory, nostalgia, and loss, often inspired by her surroundings and the legacy of her late uncle. She also weaves in feminist themes and ideas of womanhood, aiming to challenge and expand perceptions. Carly has completed two public murals in Spokane and continues to pursue projects that bring her evolving vision into shared spaces.
