Mount Burdell at San Andreas Dr - Plein Air

Hello MPAP members! Join us at Mount Burdell on San Andreas Dr. in Novato for another outdoor painting event.
The San Andreas Fire Rd Trail is one of the easiest trails providing access to the Mount Burdell Preserve in Novato, the largest open space area in Marin County. Many lovely scenic landscapes can be viewed from the lower elevation portions of the trail, where you’l see grasslands and oak and bay forests. For panoramic vistas, you’ll need to climb a little higher. Spring is a great time for wildflowers, such as California poppies, buttercups, and Douglas iris. Note: there are many ways to access Mt Burdell Open Space. We will be at the San Andreas Dr location.

Meet and greet: At 9:30 AM, we will be in the area past the Trailhead Welcome Sign. Pass through either the green gate or stile. See photo attached to the event for exact location. MPAP artists G.R. Brown and Sandy M will be hosting this event.
Show and tell: At the end of the event around 12:15, we will gather back at the meet and greet area for a "show and tell" of our art work.
Amenities: No water or restroom facilities are available at this site. Nearest Public Rest Rooms: San Marin Plaza Shopping Center at 155 San Marin Drive, Novato 94945; located between San Andreas Dr & San Ramon Way. Look for the Trailhead Cafe: Located in Harvest Market; 127 San Marin Dr.
Parking: Free. Ample parking on the street
Shade: If it is a sunny day, you may want to bring a sun umbrella or sun hoodie if you decide to paint in a sunny area.

What is plein air painting?
"En plein aire" is a French expression which means "in the open air" and is used to describe the act of painting outdoors, which became a central feature of 19th-Century Impressionism.
For newcomers, it's recommended that you do not go out and buy a lot of expensive "plein air" equipment until after your first visit where you see how others have improvised and customized their set-ups.
What to Bring?
Art Supplies - Bring your own art supplies that are relevant to your medium (e.g. paints, pastels, pencils, surfaces, brushes, easel, cleaning supplies). For beginners who don't know how to start or have questions feel free to post in the comments section or message us through Meetup.
Outdoor Wear - It's the North Bay so bring layers, hats, sunscreen and if you don't like the sun, a sun hoodie or small sun umbrella might be handy.
Something to Sit On - If you don't like standing or sitting on the ground, a camp stool or chair may be helpful. Not all locations have benches or picnic tables.
Snacks/Food/Drinking Water - Most locations don't have food or drinks so bring whatever you require.
Keys and tips to enjoying painting outdoors :
- Pack light and know how to set up your equipment before you go
- Stay hydrated by bringing your own drinking water
- Respect the environment, observe all signs, especially the "keep off" ones. Leave nothing behind, including waste. Empty any old painting fluids off-site, including dirty watercolor water.
- Be aware of what's going on around you. We can become so focused on our painting that we are no longer aware of our surroundings. And it is not uncommon for passersby to stop and compliment your art work. Thank them and ask them if they like to paint and if they would like to join MPAP :-)
Looking forward to seeing you!