Land and art have long been intertwined. It was the historic tradition of landscape painting here in Western Massachusetts by artists like Thomas Cole that contributed to the American land conservation movement in the 19th century.

Kestrel Land Trust and the Amherst Plein Air Society are partnering to offer a 4-part Plein Air Landscape Painting series, one for each season this year. The sessions will be held at Kestrel’s new Home on the Range in Amherst. Painters will convene outside to capture on canvas the various picturesque views of the pond, the Mount Holyoke Range, and the surrounding landscape as it changes through the seasons.

Whether you paint plein air regularly, want to try painting outdoors for the first time, or you’re simply an art appreciator who would enjoy watching artists as they create, come to the Spring Paint Out on Saturday, May 21, 9:00 AM to noon. The event is open to artists of all levels, as well as spectators.

• At 9:00 AM, artists arrive at the Kestrel House to paint for a few hours. Artists should bring their own supplies, including an easel, canvas or paper, and painting or drawing supplies. A member of the Amherst Plein Air Society will be available to welcome artists and advise about set up.
• Beginning at 11:00 AM, the public is invited to wander the area and watch participating artists at work.
• At noon, the artists will gather informally to show and critique the paintings created that day.

To participate as a painter: Register here!

To watch participating artists: Register here! (Note: Parking is limited, so registration is requested for spectators.)

Mark your calendar for the remaining seasonal events in this series. Attendance at all four events is not required. Registration is per event and will be available as each upcoming program is announced.

• Summer: July 16th
• Fall: October 1st