En Plein Air | Michele Combs, Bob Matheson and Joseph Theroux.

En Plein Air painting is a captivating artistic practice that involves creating artworks outdoors, directly in the open air. Derived from the French phrase meaning "in the open air," this technique emerged in the mid-19th century and gained popularity among impressionist painters. En Plein Air painting allows artists to capture the natural light, atmosphere, and transient qualities of the surrounding environment. By immersing themselves in the sights, sounds, and elements of nature, artists can translate their immediate impressions onto canvas, resulting in vibrant and authentic representations of the world around them. This approach often emphasizes the use of bold brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and a sense of spontaneity, providing viewers with a refreshing and immersive visual experience.

Michele Combs (American, b. 1954, lives and works in Minneapolis, MN) “I’m a contemporary impressionist oil painter. I love color, thick paint, and the way light plays on objects including water, land, buildings, people, etc. Being a painter has changed the way I view the world as I strive to capture the beauty around me onto my canvas. Instead of seeing things, I’m drawn to values and color that create magical scenes. Picking up a paint brush compels me to connect emotionally with a subject.”

Bob Matheson (American, b. 1956, lives and works in Minneapolis, MN) “Preserving the Landscape One Canvas at A Time. I live to paint nature. Nothing else captivates me as a new spot and its story. After surviving a serious bout of cancer a couple of years ago, I have an urgency and passion to capture on canvas my love of the landscape. For the last few years I have concentrated my efforts to Minnehaha Creek, Nine Mile Creek and Purgatory Creek. I have deep appreciation for these beautiful places and am honored and humbled to be able to try and capture their stories on linen. I have chosen to paint on a larger canvas to better express my brushwork and sense of place. I paint on location year round (as weather permits) as I seek the truth and light of Plein Air painting, along with the ability to meet others and discuss painting and its joy provided by the endless stories one finds in nature.”

Joseph Theroux (American, b. 1959, lives and works in Oak Grove, MN) Joseph Theroux is a regional painter known for depicting scenes from the urban landscape to the natural world. Deft brushwork, effective compositions and vivid color define mood and place — persuading viewers to linger and connect with the spirit of the image. Originally trained as a sculptor, Theroux produced a variety of work; from fine art to large–scale commercial projects to freelancing small–tabletop works for the gift and collectible industry. While employed as Lead Sculptor for HSC Scenic of Minneapolis in the 1990’s, he sculpted works for businesses and museums nation–wide including General Mills, the Rainforest Café and the Science Museum of Minnesota. “Plein Air painting holds a significant place in my artistic practice. By immersing myself in the act of painting outdoors, I deepen my understanding of the craft of painting and sharpen my powers of observation and interpretation.”

Gallery Hours:

Tuesday – Saturday, 11 am – 6 pm or by appointment