Beyond the Studio: The Joy of Conducting Art Classes in Open Spaces

There’s something magical about taking art outside. The sunlight, the breeze, the distant hum of life—open spaces awaken the senses in ways four walls never can. That’s why more and more artists and educators are turning to nature, parks, and urban open areas as the perfect backdrop for teaching creativity.

Whether it’s a weekend watercolor class under the trees or a sculpture workshop in a community garden, open air art classes offer a unique blend of inspiration, freedom, and connection.

Why Take Art Classes Outside?

1. Inspiration Everywhere

Nature doesn’t just provide a setting—it becomes the subject. Students can sketch the curve of a leaf, capture the play of light across water, or paint a skyline as the sun sets. Even urban open spaces offer textures, patterns, and people-watching opportunities that fuel creativity.

2. A Break From the Ordinary

Open spaces break the routine. Instead of fluorescent lights and fixed seating, students get natural light, open skies, and the ability to move, explore, and engage with their surroundings. It’s art education that breathes.

3. Community and Accessibility

Hosting classes outdoors—especially in public spaces—removes barriers. Passersby might stop and watch or even join in. This spontaneous interaction fosters community and opens up art to people who might not otherwise seek it out.

4. Mind-Body Connection

Creating art outside encourages mindfulness and physical well-being. The simple act of sitting on the grass with a sketchbook or walking through a park to find a subject blends creativity with presence, helping students feel grounded and inspired.

Tips for Teaching Art Outdoors

• Scout the Right Spot: Look for areas with shade, seating, low noise, and minimal foot traffic—but still enough room for people to spread out and feel comfortable.
• Pack Smart: Bring portable easels, folding stools, water containers, clipboards, and weather-friendly materials. Encourage students to travel light.
• Have a Backup Plan: Nature can be unpredictable. Have a contingency plan for rain or extreme weather—whether it’s a nearby indoor spot or rescheduling options.
• Engage the Environment: Tailor exercises to the setting. Try leaf rubbings, plein air painting, found-object collages, or gesture sketches of moving figures or animals.
• Be Mindful of Others: Respect public space. Clean up thoroughly, avoid obstructing paths, and keep noise to a considerate level.

Success Stories: From Sidewalk to Skyline

Art educators across the globe have embraced open spaces—from painting by the river in Florence to community mural workshops in LA parks. These outdoor experiences often become more than just lessons—they turn into memories, friendships, and sources of pride.

For students, learning art outside can feel like both a personal retreat and a shared celebration of creativity.

Unwynd ambiences have such amazing open air spaces for one to organise such beautiful events/workshops. You don’t need a perfectly lit studio to teach art. All you need is a bit of open space, a handful of materials, and a spirit of curiosity. When art meets fresh air, magic happens. And for students, that magic often stays with them far longer than any brushstroke.