Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross – Plein Air

Hello MPAP members! Let’s paint outdoors at the Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross. The 11-acre campus is a living canvas featuring a beautiful mix of native plants, towering trees, and manicured landscapes, offering endless subjects for your sketchbook or canvas. In addition to the flora, you can paint the charming historic architecture, fountains, and streams sprinkled throughout this 19th-century estate property. See the photos sections for an attached map of the gardens.
Meet and greet: At 9:30 AM, we will be at the entrance to the gardens near the parking lot. MPAP artists G.R. Brown, Sandy M, and Greg S will be there.
Show and tell: Around 12:15, we will gather back at the fountain pond near the Octagon House for a "show and tell" of our art work.
Amenities: Restrooms on site.
Parking: Free.
Shade: There are shaded areas in the gardens. But bring a sun umbrella or sun hoodie in case it is a sunny day.

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!