Rain doesn’t stop the painting in Padanaram’s ‘plein air’

For the second year in a row, the Dartmouth Cultural Center’s Wet Paint Padanaram event was postponed due to inclement weather. Though Sunday, Sept. 22 provided a bit of sun and some colorful clouds to draw from, the wind still posed a bit of trouble for some artists.

The event sends artists out into the community to paint their surroundings, with a focus on the natural environment. The French term “plein air” refers to painting outdoors. 

Robin Nunes had her canvas bungee corded to the Padanaram Bridge as she painted the harbor with oil paints and a spatula, which she prefers to use so she can get the most paint on the canvas.

Nunes said while the wind was manageable with her set up, her paint palette kept slamming shut and she was afraid it was going to catch her fingers. However, she added it did make for an interesting scene as the clouds continued to change quickly throughout the day.

Nunes has participated in the event for each of its six years. In all that time, she said the bridge has been “the most inspiring place I think I've ever painted.”

Also by the bridge was Peter Turner, who was also a fan of the oil paint and spatula combo, working on an abstract piece of the bridge overlooking the water. He said the spatula makes mixing colors easier and he can quickly wipe it off and move onto the next color.

With plans to create multiple paintings, Turner pointed out how with the current piece he is “breaking so many rules,” highlighting how the horizon line is in the middle of the canvas.

“I was trying to find the best reflective light this morning because it was so gray,” Turner said about picking the bridge.

He added he paints “heavy” and “expressive” and the event provides him the opportunity to do some experimenting. 

Jill Law, the Center’s gallery director, said the event overall “went really well.”

Though some artists were unable to participate due to the date change, she said they were still able to have a successful Arty Party to finish off the day.

“I heard a few people, a few of the artists, saying that this was the best quality of work since we’ve been doing this,” Law said. “It was a good group.”

In an attempt to avoid the rain in the future, the event will be held at the end of August next year, Law said.