En plein air is French for “in the open air,” often used to describe the act of painting outdoors to capture the changing qualities of natural light.

The perfect canvas, Tahoe’s ever changing light that transforms the composition and the soul, calls new and seasoned artists to head out with the Tahoe Art League on Sunday mornings from 9 am to noon to a variety of locations. Photographers and all media are welcome to these free outings.

While Dave Russo recently passed after a day of painting, his TAL friends invite members and the public to join together for Plein Air painting in Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada.  The TAL friends continue to gather in the spirit of their beloved friend and leader, Dave Russo, who inspired and encouraged this Plein Air group for 13 summers.

Dave was a mentor to many an artist in Lake Tahoe. His gentle style – apparent in photos and paintings, captures the eloquence of his innate connection with nature – en plein air.

Bring your bag lunch. Schedule and maps are available at the TAL meeting (second Wednesday of each month, 6pm, at Senior Center) or at the Art Center.  Email pleinair@talart.org if you wish to receive email announcements before each session.

Check the schedule here.

The Tahoe Art League is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting fine art and art education on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe since 1964. TAL provides free monthly art demonstrations for the public, art workshops, classes, summer outdoor shows, fine art exhibits, college scholarships and many other activities.

To learn more or become a member, visit www.talart.org.

Photos:
Top photo, Dr. Dave Russo at Glen Ellen Falls by by Gordon Pefley

Addie Chernus in Hope Valley

BJ Pefley atIris Garden

Larry Kendall plein air artist at Lily Lake by Becky Bell