Art in the Everyday: Plein air painting
What happens when we look past the mundane in our everyday lives, and find beauty in our surroundings? Learn about painting en plein air in this short film featuring local artist Foo Kwee Horng.
Foo Kwee Horng is a painter from Singapore. His works are mainly in watercolours and oils with subject matter that ranges from portraits and figures to cityscapes and still life. He is a brand ambassador of Royal Talens supported by Straits Art Company, Singapore’s oldest art supplies store.
We asked him a few questions to better understand his art.
What is “plein air” painting to you and why did you choose to pursue this technique?
For me, “plein air” is to be out there, to see, to appreciate and to record. Technique is secondary but enjoying the moment is paramount. “Plein air” painting has a certain immediacy and urgency, to be with nature or city and be inspired enough not just by the sight but by the sounds and the ever-moving light.
How has the “plein air” painting community in Singapore changed over your years as an artist?
It has certainly gained popularity even with the hobbyists and is no longer just the pursuits of artists and art students. This to a large part must give due credit to the urban sketching groups.
Is there anything you would like to share about your beliefs as an artist?
I have been painting long enough with the motto that if a painting turns out otherwise (and I am extremely critical of my own art), I will still wake up the next day and continue to do what I love to do, painting. There is no competition in the artworld except with yourself. Keep your ego in check, all the time!
For me, “plein air” is to be out there, to see, to appreciate and to record.
