Come Out and Paint---BCAW 2015

It's here, the Brush Creek Art Walk (BCAW) is finally upon us.  BCAW is one of Kansas City's annual plein air painting events which takes place in Brush Creek Park near the iconic Kansas City Country Club Plaza.  Each year, over 60 artists try their brush at portraying the visual elements found in and around Brush Creek Park.  For three days (September 18, 19, 20) artists will spread out along a four mile stretch interpreting what this beautiful urban landscape has to offer. 

BCAW is divided into four zones.  Artists are given a chance to compete in two zones by turning in two of their best paintings for exhibition and jury to win cash prizes.   Three "Quick Paint" events will be added as an extra.  Quick Paint's are challenging, allowing artists to complete a plein air painting within a certain time frame.  A winner will be chosen in each, and will receive a cash prize.

For some, competitions like these can be a bit of a challenge and often keep one from participating.  We must remember, new challenges bring new experiences---and we all know that new experiences are part of learning.  You don't have to be an experienced plein air painter to win cash prizes or even participate.  I've seen art students and novice plein air painters take home the cash while up against the more established artists in the field.  While cash prizes are nice; socializing, meeting new people, learning from others and having fun can be equivalent.  Exposing your work out there in front of others is a plus.

One of the things that makes these events fun and fulfilling, is being prepared---like the Boy Scout motto.  Often I see people struggling, including myself all because I forgot one little thing.  It might be a palette knife, it might be bug spray, maybe the wind knocked over my easel because I forgot to anchor it down.  You'd be surprised how small things can affect your day. 

For the novice artist, I put together a list of items for plein air painting in the BCAW.  Having the right supplies makes the experience less stressful.  Those who are experienced, feel free to use as a check list.

1. Plein air easel - portable easel, something that folds up and easy to carry.  The park is long, there can be plenty of walking for those really good spots.  It will save you trips back-and-forth from the car.
2. Painting supplies (paints/pastels, canvas, brushes, cleaner, etc.) - what ever you use for your choice of medium.  When choosing paints, keep your color choices simple.  Not every color you own needs to be transported.  Choose and pack your paints according to what you think you might need.  Simplifying your supplies lightens your load.  But if you want to pack your entire studio, that's up to you.
3. Water - stay hydrated.  I'm not sure the Blue River that runs through Brush Creek is drinkable. 
4. Food - Packing a lunch is more convenient.  There are places to eat in the area.  Especially around the Plaza area.
5. Rain gear - not a necessity unless you want to be a "hardcore painter."  In case some rain passes through, a poncho or rain coat works well. 
6. Umbrella - some artists don't believe in them, but you see them all the time.  Plein air umbrellas keep the bright sun off your work and palette.  It helps make it easier to see your colors. 
7. Frames - for the "Quick Paint" events, you will want to frame your work for the juror ASAP.  That means frames, glass, and matting for those mediums that require them.  Don't forget any tools or supplies you need to frame the work.
8. Bug repellent - for the unwanted guests.  Not the spectators. 
9. Sun screen - there are some wide open places where shade is not available. 
10. Hat - wide brim hats are most preferred to keep the sun off your face, ears, and neck. 
11. Business cards - if you have them.  Urban plein air always attracts people to your easel.  They may want more info. on you and your art.  It can bring a potential sale.
12. Something to transport supplies - this can be a backpack, cart, or yes--a little red wagon.  Depending on your gear and physical capabilities, a way to transport your supplies easily should be considered.  Some easels, like French easels allow storage for paints, brushes, and palette knives.  Others are not so convenient. 
13. Now I must note, and even marked this in red:  Often there can be windy conditions in the great outdoors.  A good gust of wind can come out of nowhere.  Unless you plan on doing some parasailing with your easel, you might want to use some sort of anchoring system to keep your easel on the ground.  Tent stakes with a bungee cord or line to tie it down works great.  Some people will use remaining gear to help weigh the easel down so that the slightest breeze doesn't tip their easel over.  There's nothing like finishing up a nice painting only to find your easel falling forward and your work screen printed on the front of your shirt.  This is strongly recommended when attaching umbrellas to an easel.

Brush Creek Art Walk---September 18, 19, 20.

Kansas City, MO

 

An exhibition will follow at the Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center.

A reception will be held Tuesday, October 6th, 5-8pm.  Awards at 7pm.

 

For more information about this years BCAW, visit the Missouri Valley Impressionist Society website at http://missourivalleyimpressionistsociety.com/event/40960/brush-creek-art-walk-mvis-sponsored.