En Plein Air
An activity for MA Animation students to learn in nature and create a series of paintings inspired by real world observation of shape, colour and light; whilst exploring the spatial and visual qualities of sound. The intention is to capture atmospheres experienced through the senses and translate feelings into painted animation backgrounds and soundscapes.
Image: © Kim Noce
Key information
- Participants: it was designed for up to 20 MA Animation students from London College of Communication (LCC), UAL. The activity could be adapted by courses exploring Environmental Studies, Art and Design and Sustainable Practices.
- Duration: it is a full day activity.
- Location: it took place at Sydenham Hill Wood but could be hosted in different natural environments.
“En Plein Air” (which translates as ‘in the open air’) is an activity that takes students out of their usual domain of the classroom, into natural settings. Aimed to encourage participants to directly engage with nature and the outdoors, to foster a deep connection to their environment and sharpen their observational skills. It was designed to highlight nature’s importance amidst climate change and promote sustainability, creativity, mindfulness, and holistic well-being. It was funded by UAL’s Climate Action Funds, as an immersive exploration of environmental and social issues related to Climate and Social Justice.
The activities encouraged students to engage their observational skills, using their chosen art materials to interpret and represent their surroundings. The decision to conduct the workshop amidst nature was a conscientious attempt to disrupt the routine and inspire fresh perspectives while intertwining the essential strands of animation, sound, and environmental consciousness. It allowed participants to step back from the digital world, immerse in the present moment, and reflect on their relationship with nature.
Images: © Kim Noce
“I love spending time in nature, but it has never been part of my creative process… after the workshop this view had changed.”
– Participant
Kim Noce (Course Leader, MA Animation at LCC), Alejandro Martinez (Climate Advocate and Lecturer), and Dr J Milo Taylor (Lecturer, BA (Hons) Sound Arts at LCC) collaborated on developing the activity to explore Nature’s portrayal in animation and sound. They guided 20 participants at a nature reserve through three key areas – observation, mark making, and listening.
The activity revealed a newfound appreciation for nature, increasing participant willingness to embrace the outdoors as a creative workspace. The day away from screens was refreshing and left a desire for more, despite the workshop’s duration. Despite challenges in ensuring accessibility and unpredictable weather, the experience cultivated mindfulness and emphasized the importance of sustainability.
The session was designed and delivered by Kim Noce, Alejandro Martinez, Milo Taylor. Assisted by Tong Xu, Raffaele Gabrielli.
Film by Nana Maiolini.
“The listening part of the workshop really changed my approach to thinking of sound. What I didn’t like was the amount of time the workshop lasted. I would have loved to have more time…”
– Participant
How you can take En Plein Air into your own work:
This activity and method of learning in nature, could be adapted and implemented for interdisciplinary learning across UAL. The “En Plein Air” concept has historical roots in the art world, particularly associated with Impressionist painters like Claude Monet. A video and report is available to reference for further insight as to the activity. Students bought art materials for outdoor sketching (sketchbooks, drawing materials).
Considerations to be aware of:
- Time of year for weather should be considered, but the activity can be adapted for all seasons, with each season offering unique observations.
- Ensuring accessibility at the location for all participants, including those with disabilities.
- Some participants might find adapting to the outdoors as a workspace challenging.
Image: © Kim Noce
Contact
Kim Noce, London College of Communication, UAL – k.noce@lcc.arts.ac.uk.