Hello Reader,

I’m currently writing this from a coffee shop in Springfield while waiting and hoping to make it home tomorrow after my flight was canceled. At this point, if all goes wrong, you may still find me wandering the streets of Springfield with a paintbrush in hand and searching for inspiration.

As I sit here reflecting, I wanted to share a little about my experience at the Plein Air Convention because it truly was four full days of inspiration, connection, laughter, and paint.

The convention really began the evening before the official first day. Eric Rhoads kicked things off by gathering all of us together in the conference room and immediately filling the space with energy and excitement. He shared what was ahead for the week and gave us a glimpse of the adventures, painting locations, and events to come. But this wasn't your typical orientation meeting. Before long the room was alive with music, dancing, shouting, cheering, and prizes being tossed into the crowd. It felt less like a conference introduction and more like the beginning of a celebration. You could feel the excitement spreading through the room as artists from all over came together, many meeting for the first time but already feeling like part of a community.

Day one started with all the excitement and energy of homeroom and a wonderful demo with Thomas Schaller that set the tone for the convention. I then skipped off to Jessica Bryant’s watercolor stage demo and was completely awed by her process. One of my favorite things about these events is watching artists work in ways completely different from my own. There is always something to learn.

After shopping and chatting with other art enthusiasts, we headed to the College of the Ozarks to paint. One of my favorite moments of the day happened there when Sophia, a scholarship student from Texas A&M, asked if she could paint beside me. She had never painted in watercolor before and wanted to give it a try. Moments like that remind me exactly why I love teaching.

The evening ended with dinner and conversations with fellow faculty at Big Cedar Lodge and Top of the Rock.

Day two was my demo day.

For one fast and furious hour, I poured, splashed, dripped, and flung watercolor around while trying to keep both my paintings and the stage under control. Watercolor can feel a little like organized chaos at times. At the end of it all, I revealed a painting inspired by Todra Gorge in Morocco.

I was overwhelmed by the kindness and encouragement from everyone who attended. Thank you to those who came and cheered me on. Teaching and demonstrating can feel a little vulnerable sometimes, and your support meant more than you know.

That evening ended back at Big Cedar Lodge where many of us painted the lake. Unfortunately, I realized I had forgotten my paint bucket after my demo. But sometimes things work out as they should. Instead of painting, I wandered the property, took photos, talked with other artists, and simply enjoyed being present. Truthfully, I was probably too tired from the demo to focus much anyway.

Day three began by watching Xi Guo demonstrate, which was incredible. Then came one of the big moments of the convention as Eric Rhoads announced next year's location: Zion and Bryce in Southern Utah!

I may have been just a little excited.

Southern Utah holds such incredible beauty and inspiration, and I am already hoping to return next year.

That afternoon we painted at Finley Farms where I did a few watercolor studies and continued helping students as they worked. One of the things I love most about these events is how teaching naturally spills into conversations and shared experiences.

That evening, we traded paint clothes for 80s clothes and celebrated with an 80s-themed party. There was music, laughter, dancing, and a lot of saying goodbye to friends old and new. It felt like the perfect ending.

Except we weren't quite done yet.

Our final day took us to Dogwood Canyon where we were greeted by glorious waterfalls. The morning began rainy and overcast, but the sun eventually broke through and transformed the landscape.

I started a waterfall painting but wasn't able to finish because the person riding in my car became sick. I ended up driving her and another participant back to the hotel early, so my time there was shorter than expected. Still, I managed to take many reference photos to work from later, and one of the scholarship students from Texas A&M painted me!

Four days. Countless conversations. Paint on my hands. New friendships. Inspiration everywhere.

I’m returning home feeling grateful, inspired, and already thinking about next year.

Now if the travel gods cooperate, I also hope to return home to my doggos very soon.

And if not...

you still might find me here in Springfield.

Until the next splash, pour, and adventure,

Leslie