Generally I only need a sketchbook and small travel paint palette – a non fussy approach when outdoor painting. However I find it good practice to mix things up at times. My mood…the view, time, light, weather..all can affect what medium works that day. Sometimes short quick sketches with chalk pastel can help loosen me up…opens my eyes to shapes, colour and possibilities to bring back to the studio. Or pen and gouache for quick sketches with helpful detail. There are definitely times for longer oil painting studies to really get to know tones, colour, forms. Hence my travel art van comes in handy – it ALSO offers hot beverages and shelter if needs be.
Painting seemingly simple shapes – mountains – can get us more absorbed by deeper tonal values of the forms/surface.
Painting moving subjects can keep one on ones toes and be a fun challenge.