“En plein air” is a French expression which means “in the open air” and is used to describe outdoor painting, which has been in vogue since the time of the Impressionists. If you are a painter (beginner, advanced or professional), who would like to paint outdoors, the Tryon Area Plein Air Society (TAPAS) is continuing the tradition, and welcomes new members.

In addition to participating in and promoting plein air painting, TAPAS is for connecting members with each other as painting companions and to provide opportunities to paint local landscapes outdoors. The group also promotes community awareness of plein-air painting through exhibits and the organization of paint-outs.

TAPAS paint-outs are held on the first Saturday of the month at 11 a.m. The May paint-out will be this Saturday, May 7, where the group will paint at the Lake Lanier Tea House, off Highway 176, south of Tryon. There is no cost or dues for group participation, but participants are asked to bring their own supplies.

For more information, e-mail nctapas@gmail.com or contact Jocelyn Davis at 828-894-5671 or Carl Cartee at 864-457-5122.

– article submitted by Gloria Owenby