JOIN US IN THE OPEN AIR!

Led by Meressa Naftulin
SCAA Plein Air Chair

Meressa with our Plein Air Group at Vasquez Rocks

SCAA Plein Air

There is something truly special about painting outdoors – watching the light shift, noticing rich colors in the landscape, and capturing the feeling of a place in the moment. Derived from the French term meaning “in the open air,” plein air painting invites you to step outside studio walls and respond directly to nature.

SCAA hosts casual, low-pressure monthly outings at scenic locations chosen for their beauty, character, and accessibility. Whether you want to practice observing real-time light, enjoy the company of fellow artists, or try creating outdoors for the very first time, there is a warm space for you here.
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• Who Can Join: Free and completely open to the general public – friends and all skill levels are welcome! You do not need to be an SCAA member.
• When We Meet: Scheduled once a month, typically around the third Friday.

Next Meetup:

October 23rd
Exploring Historic Fillmore

Discover the vintage charm, historic architecture, and scenic valleys of Fillmore.

Join us for a relaxing morning exploring a beautifully preserved slice of Southern California history! Bring your paints, sketchbooks, or cameras and find inspiration among Fillmore's cute historic storefronts, vintage train tracks, and scenic mountain backdrops.

• Date & Time: Friday, October 23, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Location: 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 91315
• Meeting Spot: Gather at the fountain directly in front of Fillmore City Hall.
• Cost: Completely free! (Bring money for lunch if you plan to stay).
• Pro-Tip: After the meetup, Meressa plans to grab a bite at Roan Mills Bakery, famous for milling its own heritage grain and baking incredible fresh bread. You are warmly invited to join her!​

City Hall in Fillmore, CA

Artist Outdoor Checklist:
​What to Pack

To make your outdoor session comfortable, safe, and productive, we recommend packing these baseline essentials in your travel kit:

Portable Art Kit

A lightweight field easel, sketchbook, canvases, palettes, and your preferred painting or drawing mediums.

Seating Comfort

A compact, lightweight folding camp chair or stool.

Weather Protection

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. A small, personal clip-on umbrella works, too, if your stool or chair has space for it!

Hydration & Fuel

Plenty of fresh drinking water and light, portable snacks.

Get Plein Air Straight to Your Inbox!

Sign up to receive reminders about Plein Air events from Meressa with location information, directions, and special interest notes!

Questions? Contact Our Chair

For more information about our Plein Air group, material suggestions, or tips on painting outdoors, reach out to our dedicated Plein Air Chair: Meressa Naftulin |  EMAIL MERESSA