What we’re about
Let's paint en plein air! Drawing or painting in public can be very intimidating, especially for the introverted. My goal is to form a friendly social group for people who like to paint outdoors and who might find interest and motivation in a friendly, mutually supportive group setting.
Bring your own art supplies and equipment: coffee, snacks, whatever makes you happy and stay for an hour or three. Don't forget to take out what you bring in. Raleigh has so many beautiful parks and greenways and open spaces, I can't wait to get started.
I have always wanted to paint en plein air, but I never got around to actually doing it. I thought it might be fun and motivating to be a part of a group. My experience is primarily in still life oil painting, so I am learning to paint en plein air the hard way: direct experience.
If you would like more information see our Facebook group:
Raleigh Outdoor Painting Group. I posted a PDF about art supplies I recommend there that beginners might find helpful.
I hope you will join us!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Durant Nature Preserve - Lakeside Trail South EntranceDurant Nature Preserve, Raleigh, NC
Saturday May 24th @ 10am
Durant Nature Preserve - Lakeside Trail South Entrance
Let's meet on the north side of the lake near the fishing area.If you chose to some through the south entrance, park at Campbell Lodge and just follow the Lakeside Trail to the right over the bridge, past the children's play area to the north side. There are lots of flat open areas near the water to set up at. If you come from the North entrance parking lot, walk south of the park office on the hiking/biking trail, down to the lake. I have not been that way so please check out the park map and website, linked below.
Durant Nature Preserve Map
Durant Nature PreserveThere are various picnic tables around but you will probably want to bring your own camp chair for a better view. When I was there last the nearest bathrooms were locked up. It maybe an inconvenient walk back to the lodge if anyone needs the facilities.
What should you bring?
Your art supplies and whatever you need to be comfortable out in summer weather. - Downtown Cary Park: Gathering House and GardenDowntown Cary Park, Cary, NC
Downtown Cary Park: Gathering House and Garden
Sat, Jun 07, 2025 10 AM TO 12 PM
Downtown Cary Park Gathering House
Downtown Cary ParkJoin us for a relaxing and inspiring plein air painting meetup at the beautiful Downtown Cary Park! This event is perfect for artists of all skill levels who enjoy painting outdoors and connecting with fellow creatives. We’ll gather in the scenic Gathering House and Garden area, a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery and charming architecture, providing endless inspiration for your canvas.
Whether you’re capturing the vibrant colors of the garden, the peaceful atmosphere of the park, or the unique character of the Gathering House, there’s something for every painter to explore. Bring your favorite painting supplies and a spirit of creativity as we enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of nature together.
Details:- Date & Time: Sat, Jun 07, 2025 10 AM TO 12 PM
- Location: Gathering House and Garden, Downtown Cary Park, Cary, NC
- All skill levels welcome
- Supplies to bring: Painting materials, easel, sketchbook, and comfortable clothing, hat, sunscreen, something to sit on.
- Optional: Bring a picnic lunch or snack to enjoy during breaks
Important Info:
- Parking: Please check the FAQ page of the park website for parking availability near Downtown Cary Park.
- Vendors: All vendors will only accept card or contactless payments.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome to join, but if you plan to use the "Barkyard," you’ll need a dog pass and waiver with the city.
Come for the painting, stay for the community! We look forward to seeing you there.
- Historic Oak View County ParkHistoric Oak View County Park, Raleigh, NC
Historic Oak View County Park
Sat, Jun 21, 2025 10 AM
Historic Oakview Wake County Park Info
4028 Carya Drive
Raleigh, NC 27610Join us for a relaxing and inspiring day of plein air painting at the beautiful Historic Oak View County Park in Raleigh! Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow creatives and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of this historic park.
What to Expect:- Meet up with fellow artists and share techniques, tips, and inspiration.
- Spend the day painting in the peaceful, scenic park, surrounded by historic buildings, expansive green spaces, and mature oak trees.
- Experience the park's unique charm, including its farm animals—especially the Nubian goats, a popular attraction! Visitors often bring carrots or apple slices to feed them, and you can usually find them grazing in the corral behind the Tenant House. A great opportunity for drawing animals from life.
- Enjoy a social atmosphere and a chance to learn from others while soaking in the beauty of the park’s combination of history, nature, and farm life.
What to Bring:
- Your painting supplies (watercolor, oil, or acrylics, pastels—whatever you prefer!)
- A portable easel or a suitable setup for painting outdoors.
- Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Snacks, water, bug spray and sunscreen for a fun, comfortable day outside.
Details:
- This event is free and open to artists of all skill levels.
- Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center
- While we’ll meet at 10:00 AM, feel free to arrive earlier if you want to explore the grounds before starting your painting. I usually set up under the trees near the Tenant House.
Don’t forget to bring your passion for art and an open mind! We hope to see you there.
- NC Museum of Art North CourtyardNorth Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh, NC
North Carolina Museum of Art North Courtyard (West Building)
Saturday July 12, 2025, 10am to 12pmI have painted in this courtyard before, it's a lovely, quiet location. The North Courtyard is in the back of the West Building (the big white one), of the NCMA. There are two sculptures, including a wonderful Miro and a lily pond, trees and a very interesting retaining wall. Added bonus are shade trees and tables and chairs. It is one of my favorite places during the hot summer months.
Here is a link to the park website and map.
NCMA InfoWhat should you expect?
This will be a very relaxed, social art outing with the intention of getting out in nature with a bit of self-expression on the side. I primarily paint in oil but any art median will do. If you don't want to paint, bring a coloring book, a sketchbook, or your camera.What should you bring?
Your favorite art supplies! A camp chair or blanket so you are not sitting directly on the ground. It will be hot so stay hydrated. Bring water and snacks. Sunscreen, bug spray and a hat might come in handy too.Remember we want to be good citizens and take out what we bring in. Please don't dump out dirty paint water in the park. You can dispose of it at home, though I suggest running it through a coffee filter to save your plumbing.
