Plein Air The Next Generation: A Day for the Young Artist by Susan Horsey

On a early warm morning in Easton, artists, teachers and volunteers are
busy setting up for the Plein Air Easton Next Generation event. What seems like a quiet start, soon
the street becomes alive with the arrival of young artists and families.

Last year I presented a workshop called “Painting with Pastels”. Oil pastels are a wonderful
medium, that enable an artist to capture the beauty of the scene quickly and with wonderful
results. I had set up a still life around a wagon filled with flowers. After some instruction, the
young artists took to it immediately and immersed themselves into their work, creating lovely art.

As the day progresses, the young artists move from one workshop to another, enjoying all of the
creative experiences. The event concludes as artists set up their easels on the street and display
their work from the day. It’s exciting to see artists from the very young to the high schoolers who
also set up their work for display. It is a special moment for me to see past students that I have
taught along with the young children also participating in the day’s events. The results of the day
are evident, with everyone enjoying the days rewards.

What a fun day, music, kids, families and a wonderful art adventure is planned for this year. I’m
looking forward to this years event, anticipating the joy on each child face as they enjoy the
experience. I’ll get there early again and prepare my space for “Painting With Pastels”. With a
different still life set up, it will be a new experience for kids that return. Looking forward to
another great art event in downtown Easton.