Black Point Boat Launch in Novato – Plein Air

Hello MPAP members! Let’s paint at Black Point Boat Launch in Novato; a public boat launch located on the mouth of the Petaluma River under the Rt 37 bridge. It offers views of the river, the bridge and dock structure, and surrounding hills and wildlife. See attached photos for some ideas.

Directions: Cell phone reception can be spotty. Make sure you search for the location before you set out. Use the map link in the MeetUp event or search for “Black Point Boat Launch” in Google maps or Apple map. Address is 148 Harbor Dr., Novato. Message me on MeetUp the Friday before if you are unsure about the meeting location.
Meet and greet: At 9:30 AM, we will be near the boat launch area. MPAP artists Greg S, Sandy M, and Greg B will be there.
Show and tell: At the end of the event around 12:15, we will gather back at the boat launch area for a "show and tell" of our art work.
Amenities: There are ADA accessible restrooms with running water, soap, and hand dryers.
Parking: Ample parking is available in two lots – one small lot that is underneath State Route 37 and a larger lot across Harbor Drive from the launch area.
Shade: Bring a sun umbrella or sun hoodie in case it is a sunny day.

What is plein air painting?
"En plein aire" is a French expression which means "in the open air" and is used to describe the act of painting outdoors, which became a central feature of 19th-Century Impressionism.
What to Bring?
Art Supplies - Bring your own art supplies that are relevant to your medium (e.g. paints, pastels, pencils, surfaces, brushes, easel, cleaning supplies). For beginners who don't know how to start or have questions feel free to post in the comments section or message us through Meetup.
Outdoor Wear - It's the North Bay so bring layers, hats, sunscreen and if you don't like the sun, a sun hoodie or small sun umbrella might be handy.
Something to Sit On - If you don't like standing or sitting on the ground, a camp stool or chair may be helpful. Not all locations have benches or picnic tables.
Snacks/Food/Drinking Water - Most locations don't have food or drinks so bring whatever you require.
Keys and tips to enjoying painting outdoors :
- Pack light and know how to set up your equipment before you go
- Stay hydrated by bringing your own drinking water
- Respect the environment\, observe all signs\, especially the "keep off" ones. Leave nothing behind\, including waste. Empty any old painting fluids off-site\, including dirty watercolor water.
- Be aware of what's going on around you. We can become so focused on our painting that we are no longer aware of our surroundings. And it is not uncommon for passersby to stop and compliment your art work. Thank them and ask them if they like to paint and if they would like to join MPAP :-)