Interested in plein air painting?
Maui’s plein air painter provides a tip when getting started painting outdoors.
Maui offers an ideal setting for painting outdoors, with its consistently pleasant weather and diverse natural beauty. The term plein air comes from the French phrase meaning "in the open air." Plein air painting involves stepping outside the confines of the studio to create art within the landscape. While the practice has deep historical roots, it gained widespread recognition with the rise of the French Impressionists. These artists were driven by a fascination with natural light and its fleeting variations. Thanks to innovations like portable paint tubes and the early box easel—an ancestor of today’s plein air setups—they were able to take their work out in nature.
Artists, including Ellen Friel, are inspired by the island’s dramatic contrasts—towering volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, vibrant beaches, and the ever-changing hues of the ocean and sky. The quality of light in Hawaii is distinctive, casting unique shadows and tones that shift throughout the day. Whether capturing sunrise over Haleakalā or the golden hour along the coast, painting on location in Maui deepens an artist’s connection to the land and its natural rhythms.
One great tip for someone just starting out with plein air painting? Start simple and focus on capturing light and shapes rather than details.
When you're outside, the light changes quickly, and it's easy to get overwhelmed trying to paint everything you see. Begin with a small canvas or sketchbook, limit your color palette, and try to capture the overall mood or composition instead of getting caught up in fine details. Think of it as a visual impression rather than a perfect replica—just like the Impressionists did!
Choosing Original Art or Prints
How do you decide between purchasing an original piece of art or a fine art print? This guide from artist Ellen Friel gives some great advice.
Original Art vs. Archival Giclée Prints: What’s Right for You?
When investing in artwork, one of the first decisions you'll make is whether to purchase an original piece or a fine art print. Both offer unique benefits, and understanding the differences can help you choose what best suits your space, style, and budget.
Original artwork, like Ellen Friel’s watercolor and oil paintings, offers a one-of-a-kind presence. Each brushstroke tells a story, carrying the energy, texture, and intention of the artist’s hand. Originals often become treasured heirlooms, increasing in sentimental and potentially monetary value over time. They bring character and authenticity to a space, perfect for collectors or anyone looking to connect deeply with a work of art.
On the other hand, archival quality giclée prints provide a more accessible way to enjoy beautiful art. Printed using high-resolution technology and pigment-based inks on fine art paper, these prints are made to last—retaining their color and vibrancy for decades. Ellen’s giclée prints faithfully reproduce the detail and richness of her originals, offering an affordable option without compromising on quality.
So how do you decide? If you’re drawn to the texture, exclusivity, and presence of a singular piece, an original may be right for you. If you love a particular painting but aren’t ready to invest in the original—or want to start a gallery wall—giclée prints are an excellent choice. Since the original is one-of-a-kind, once it is sold, you can still purchase your favorite Friel image as a fine print.
Prints also come in a variety of sizes. Since the original artwork is scanned at high resolution, prints can be reproduced to very large sizes to accommodate your space.
Whether you’re curating a collection or simply adding inspiration to your space, both options bring the beauty of Ellen Friel’s art into your home in meaningful ways.