The Tryon Area Plein Air Society (TAPAS) will hold a paint-out Saturday, June 4 on the grounds at Cantrell Gardens in Campobello, S.C., at 9 a.m. En plein air is a French expression, which means “in the open air” and is used to describe outdoor painting.

Artists have long painted outdoors, but in the mid-19th century working in natural light became particularly important to the Barbizon school and Impressionism. The popularity of painting en plein air increased in the 1870s with the introduction of paints in tubes. The local area has a long history of artists painting en plein air, both individually and in groups, and this group strives to continue the tradition.

The TAPAS group is for artists with an interest in the participation and promotion of plein-air painting, by connecting members with each other as painting companions and providing opportunities to paint local landscapes outdoors. The group also promotes community awareness of plein-air painting through exhibits and the organization of paint-outs.

TAPAS paint-outs are held on the first Saturday of each month. The June Paint-Out will be on Saturday, June 4 on the grounds at Cantrell Gardens in Campobello, S.C., at 9 a.m. To reach the gardens, take Hwy. 176 south to Campobello and turn right at the third street south of the post office (Cantrell Street). The gardens are located on the second block on the left.

There is no cost or dues for group participation, but participants are asked to bring their own supplies. For more information, email nctapas@gmail.com or contact Carl Cartee at 864 457-5122, or Jocelyn Davis at 828 894-5671.

– article submitted by Gloria R. Owenby