The objective of this class will be to teach students to observe, record and interpret nature using painting and drawing techniques on location. The approach is three-pronged, starting with observation. This includes scouting locations, learning about the nature of natural light on the subject, learning to choose working conditions based on light on subject, and composition and editing of subject. The second focus is on recording, which includes: use of tools and materials, learning to work rapidly, learning to deal with changing conditions while working, knowing when to stop, and learning from failures. The final prong is interpretation: learning how to work in a way that is personal and unique, how to use the observation and recording skills to facilitate one's own vision, and learning how to use these skills in other areas of art practice. Most locations will be close to campus and transportation is important. When weather prevents outdoor work, students will work indoors with setups/and or models or on learning historical precedent for landscape painting, historical and contemporary.