En plein air

"En plein air" is a French term that means "in the open air." It refers to the practice of painting outdoors rather than in a studio. This approach allows artists to capture natural light, colors, and the atmosphere of their surroundings more accurately. Popularized by the Impressionist movement in the late 19th century, en plein air painting emphasizes spontaneity and the fleeting qualities of nature. Artists like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir often used this technique to bring life and immediacy to their works, creating vibrant landscapes and scenes that reflect the beauty of the natural world.