Plein Air Painting at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Winter blooming Camellia japonica
After an unusually long cold spell this winter, warm sunny days have finally retured to the Lowcountry.  The Gardens at Magnolia Plantation are full of winter beauty, with of hundreds of camellias, Japanese cherry trees, plants and bulbs filling the grounds with colorful blooms.  As I painted under the moss draped live oaks, I was impressed by the timeless beauty of the historic Magnolia  Plantation House in the garden. 

My plein air painting
"Timeless Elegance - Magnolia Plantation"
Oil on panel
11"x14''
Price: $475.00

 I also enjoyed the challenge of painting on a larger plein air easel similar to those used by the 19th century Cape Cod outdoor painters. Their easels were designed with a wide leg base to withstand high winds and  harsh winter weather conditions. 

This style of easel also accommodates a larger paint box allowing more space for paint and supplies. It was interesting to paint with the different gear... both the pochade paintbox with tripod and Beauport style easel are useful and have unique qualities for painting on location.

"Timeless Elegance - Magnolia Plantation" an oil painting of a Lowcountry Plantation by Katherine Schneider

"Timeless Elegance - Magnolia Plantation"

Oil on panel painting by Katherine Schneider

 11"x14" 

$450.00

This time of year the world famous collection of camellias is in full bloom at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens along the banks of the Ashley River near Charleston, SC. Painting on the grounds of the Manor house is a pleasure anytime of year, but even more now when the weather is mild and the amazing variety of  blooming camellias add bright bursts of color to the muted tones of  the winter garden.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens "Winter Garden Art Exhibit" 2011

The paintings of Katherine Schneider have been chosen to be included in the 2011 Magnolian Plantation and Gardens Winter Garden Art Exhibit and Sale in Charleston, SC.

"Antique Camellia japonica"
Oil on canvas
10"x 10"
The annual exhibit of selected artwork from regional artists is on display in the History Room at the Plantation from 10 - 4 pm daily during the Winter Garden Festival Jan.31 - March 31, 2011.

"Ashley River Moonrise"
oil on canvas
6"x 6"
$250.00

For additional information about Magnolia Gardens check out their website: http://www.magnoliaplantation.com