Embracing the Outdoors: My Journey of Creativity and Spirituality, Working En Plein Air
In my artistic journey, there was a time when the thought of working en plein air filled me with apprehension. It felt daunting to step out of the comfort of my studio and into the open air, exposed to the elements and the unseen eyes of nature. It’s strange to admit now, but I even felt a sense of being watched and judged, although in reality, no one paid much attention to my work. This fear became a barrier—a self-imposed wall that separated me from the very source of my inspiration. Instead of embracing nature, I used my apprehensions as an excuse to retreat into the safety of my studio. Looking back, I realize the impact this had on my art. The pieces created within the confines of my studio lacked a certain vitality, a dynamic energy that only comes from direct engagement with the natural world.
But it was only recently, after mustering the courage to brave the “on location” way of working, that I began to understand the profound difference it made. Stepping out into nature forced me to confront my fears and insecurities, but it also opened up a world of possibilities. As I spent time outdoors, surrounded by the beauty and chaos of the world, something shifted within me. Drawing and painting en plein air became more than just artistic endeavors; they became a form of active meditation, a way for me to commune with nature and with myself. As I breathed in the fresh air and let my eyes wander across the landscape, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was as if my senses were heightened, attuned to the subtle rhythms and beauty of the world around me.
In this state of heightened awareness, I found myself fully present, fully engaged in the act of creation. Each brushstroke became a prayer, each mark a reflection of my innermost thoughts and emotions. There was a profound sense of interconnectedness that emerged, as I became a vessel through which the essence of the landscape flowed onto the canvas. The impact on my art was undeniable. The pieces created in this way carried a newfound vibrancy—a sense of freedom and spontaneity that was absent in my previous work. The marks on the canvas felt bolder, more expressive, as if they were infused with the very essence of the landscape. There was clarity in what I was trying to paint and depict, and I found myself able to move away from exactness and tap into a more authentic vocabulary of expression.
So, to my fellow creatives, I urge you to embrace imperfection, to step out of your comfort zones, and to immerse yourselves in the beauty of the natural world. It may feel daunting at first, but trust me— the rewards are immeasurable. As we brave the elements together, let’s unlock the full potential of our art and rediscover the joy of creation in its purest form.
Happy Discovering
Dhira
