Light and Color - Plein Air and the Sketch

Cornelia MaiwaldI paint to capture what moves me – moments, moods, scenes that might otherwise slip away. The canvas is my journal, color is my language. Whether in the heart of the city or out in nature, I stop, observe, and translate what I see into spontaneous, vibrant paintings. I work with oil and mixed media – dynamic, bold, often with loose and expressive brushstrokes.


Since I can only paint what I see, I use AI to give shape to my ideas. It helps me visualize inner images and turn them into starting points for my paintings – a fascinating blend of digital tools and traditional craft.
I also paint plein air – directly on location. Immersing myself in the atmosphere, light, and energy of a place helps me respond intuitively and honestly to what’s in front of me.


My artistic journey is an ongoing process of learning and growing. Studying digital sketching with Adebanji Alade (President of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, London) sharpened my eye for form, light, and composition. Artists like Yo Rühmer and Torsten Wolber continue to inspire me and deepen my understanding of color and landscape.
My impatience and spontaneity flow straight into my work. I paint quickly – often finishing a piece within a few hours. Each painting is raw, emotional, and honest: a snapshot in color and form. An invitation to see the world through my eyes.
 


 

group exhibitions
May 11th, 2024 - Plein Air Festival, Kühlungsborn

July 5th - August 21st, 2024 - Plein Air Review, Bad Doberan

19th - 20th October 2024 - RNLI Art Show, Devon

May 10th , 2025 - Plein Air Festival, Kühlungsborn

May 16th - June 21st, 2025 - Plein Air Review, Bad Doberan

 

Next solo exhibition
April 25th - May 10th, 2026 - Freya-Frahm-Haus, Laboe

Definitions

  • Plein Air

    Plein air painting is the art of painting outdoors and capturing the immediate atmosphere and light of a subject.

  • Sketch

    A sketch is a free, usually fleeting drawing that is used to capture ideas, explore motifs or capture a moment.

  • Alla Prima

    Also known as the "wet-on-wet technique", describes painting in a single session where the colors are applied directly to the canvas.
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