The Impact of Plein Air Practice on the Formation of a Visual Arts Teacher

The given article dwells on the role of plein air painting (outdoor sketching) in the professional development of future visual arts educators. While traditionally focused on mastering techniques for landscape depiction, the research argues that an exclusive emphasis on accurate reproduction neglects the crucial aspect of fostering an ethical relationship with nature. The article posits plein air practice as a key tool for developing empathy towards nature, deep sensory perception of landscape nuances, and aesthetic appreciation. Key findings highlight that successful plein air work requires genuine inspiration and emotional resonance with the landscape, moving beyond mere copying to capture the “spirit of place” through selective emphasis and generalization. The study concludes that plein air practice significantly enhances an art teacher’s technical proficiency, observational acuity, and ability to inspire students, while crucially fostering the ethical-aesthetic perception necessary for meaningful art education and environmental stewardship.