Artists draw inspiration from Felt Estate at ‘Paint Out’

LAKETOWN TWP. — Artists from around West Michigan gathered in Laketown Township on Saturday, April 20, to participate in plein air painting at the Felt Estate.

French for “out of doors," plein air painting means creating works of art entirely outside. Despite some low temperatures and high winds, around a dozen artists braved the elements to draw inspiration.

Paint Out was sponsored by Plein Air Artists of West Michigan and the Saugatuck Douglas Art Club. Although the winds saw some loose papers and toppled easels, participants enjoyed the day.

“It really makes no difference to most artists what time of year he or she tackles a plein air subject,” said Richard Jordan of Plein Air Artists of West Michigan. “Even though each season casts its own unique light, an artist usually paints in the same manner depending on their medium of choice: oil, watercolor, pastel or acrylic.”

For some, it was a first trip to the Felt Estate. Others, like those in the Saugatuck Douglas Art Club, were returning to a favorite location.

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“The Felt Estate is one of our favorite locations because of the beauty of the mansion’s architecture and its natural environment,” said Barri Rosenbluth. “There’s always something new to paint. We love spending time outside enjoying the scenery, fresh air and camaraderie.”

— Contact reporter Mitchell Boatman at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Artists draw inspiration from Felt Estate at ‘Paint Out’