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Emma Jean Wilkins Emma Jean Wilkins

The Thing About Paintbrushes

I think paintbrushes are a great identifier of one’s process. Stay with me on this one…they tell a story of the artist's habits and style. Are they a perfectionist? Are the brushes lovingly cleaned and maintained? Are they a “noodler”? Or are they more loose and expressionistic? With bushes on the side of well-worn and in some cases beat up? Learn about brushes and more! From the different materials, shapes, sizes they come in to brands and how to clean them of course! Bonus: Palette Knives & Silicone Shapers.

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Emma Jean Wilkins Emma Jean Wilkins

Plein Air Painting: My Gear Checklist

I despise feeling unprepared so I tend to over-pack. Here’s a list of the essentials I keep in my painting backpack and the occasional tool I pack in my trunk - just in case.

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Emma Jean Wilkins Emma Jean Wilkins

But What Do I Wear? A Comprehensive Guide to Plein Air Painting Attire

The Grinch was right when he said “That’s it! I’m not going.” What you wear can make a difference in whether you go plein air painting or not. The lack of planning might hinder your experience or may influence your painting outcome. To make good painting habits you need to make going out as easy as possible. Such as having your gear ready to go, a prepped list of locations you can visit regularly, and specific clothing.

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Emma Jean Wilkins Emma Jean Wilkins

A Guide to Wet Painting Transportation

You’ve painted a majestic art piece away from the studio….now what? As a self-proclaimed neat freak, I am quite particular about how I store my wet paintings. One of the great frustrations in my life is getting oil paint on things I value. Let’s review some of best options for wet painting carriers.

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