My first art mentor, the late Paul Herr of Lititz, introduced me to Plein Air painting. En plein air, or plein air painting, is a phrase borrowed from the French equivalent meaning "open (in full) air" or painting outdoors. That cold winter morning as I stood in a farmer's field, I remember wondering why anyone would risk frostbite when they could paint in a cozy, warm studio. But more than 20 years later, all I remember was what a thrilling experience it was to witness the beauty firsthand and not the poor substitute of a photo reference. A couple years ago, I got the opportunity to pursue my painting passion full-time, and have discovered just how wonderful it can be. Right away, I joined a Monday night plein air group and organized a Thursday morning group for the Lancaster County Art Association. We meet in locations across Lancaster County and share our passion for painting.

I worked for over 40 years in non-art-related fields. Capturing and translating a fleeting moment in time challenges me in ways my "day job" never could. And lessons learned outdoors have elevated my studio work as well.

While I have no formal art education, I have taken workshops with some of the best artists in the country. My favorite medium is watercolor, a medium that many describe as both difficult and unforgiving. When asked my secret of how to move beyond the initial difficulties of the medium, my advice is to "paint daily" and "it's only paint and paper". This is advice that I received and gladly pass on. Catch my work online at www.maritahines.com or at one of the local outdoor art shows.