On July 31 and August 1, we have a rare opportunity to paint on the grounds of Gilfillan Farm in Upper St. Clair (next to Westminster Church). Then, on August 2 6-9 PM there will be a "wet paint" sale of work completed during the class or a prior plein air event at Gilfillan Farm. There will also be food and music. Register here for the wet paint sale.
Note: the paint out will be held rain or shine (there are several porches in case of rain). No refunds unless we can fill your spot from the waitlist. The lower gate by the garden opens at 9:30 for check-in and parking and closes at 4:30. If you have mobility issues, indicate so during registration and we can accommodate giving you access to the upper gate for drop-off and pick-up. Please observe the off-limits areas on the map you will be provided with on arrival.
The public is invited to view the artists at work.
The Gilfillan Farm plein air seminar taught by David Csont immerses participants in the practice of painting outdoors, directly from nature, rather than in a studio. For over 20 years, David has specialized in plein Air painting, competing and designing many events for the arts community both local and national. David offers a unique opportunity to learn from an experienced instructor, engage with the natural environment, and develop skills in capturing the essence of a landscape or subject in a spontaneous and expressive way. While his primary medium is watercolor, discussion of composition, color use, drawing and other artistic approaches that will be discussed, are valuable to working in any media.
Here's a more detailed look at what you can expect from the seminar: Csont Gilfillan Farm.pdf
Materials list: Csont Materials List Gilfillan Farm.pdf
David has been a professional artist and illustrator for over 35 years. HE has a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin- Madison. He has taught extensively and specializes in Watercolor and Plein Air Painting. In July 2021, he won the award for best watercolor at Plein Air Easton, The largest outdoor painting competition in the country.
Whether you are a professional or amateur artist, David’s hands-on approach and personal attention will provide you with new and positive ways to approach your painting.
"Special things to consider when painting out of doors" (from Barry Jeter)
- Pack a lunch with something to drink.
- Seating, if you like to paint sitting down.
- Easel, if you want a support for your painting (some watercolorists simply hold a watercolor block with no support)
- Water container and a waste water container.
- Oil painters MUST have containers for their thinner and zip lock bags for their paper towels and or rags.
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent, including tick spray, long pants suggested
- Some artists use an umbrella, that's fine if you like, I have always found them somewhat cumbersome in that they have to be well supported or the wind or a quick breeze can shake your setup or take them away. Sometimes it's best just to find a shady spot that you can work in.
- Sunglasses can help but they can change your colors.
- Dress appropriately for the day... if it's a cool day, you don't want to be chilly all day painting.
Maximum class size: 12
Minimum class size: 8
