GCSU and area students gather at Andalusia to create impromptu art “En Plein Air”

Using watercolors, charcoals, paintbrushes, easels and canvasses—students from Central Georgia will craft impromptu art during Georgia College & State University’s first “Artober Celebration at Andalusia: Home of Flannery O’Connor.”

It’ll be a day of “En Plein Air” painting 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5. The term refers to artists leaving the confinements of four walls for an open-air experience. Rain or shine, students from Georgia College and other local schools like Mercer University and Wesleyan College will gather outdoors to paint the landscapes of Andalusia.

“Set up your easel wherever inspiration strikes, whether it’s under the shade of the ancient oaks, beside the tranquil pond or near the charming farmhouse,” said Matthew Forrest, interim chair of GCSU’s Department of Art. “Connect with fellow artists and enthusiasts in a supportive and creative environment.” 

The public is invited to watch art-in-the-making and enjoy access to the Andalusia Interpretive Center and grounds. For a small fee, tours will be conducted of the farmhouse where the popular Southern writer and GCSU alumna lived.

While creating artwork, students will interact with community members.

Completed paintings will be displayed in Georgia College’s Underwood House Gallery, 102 South Columbia St. in Milledgeville. The exhibit begins Wednesday, Oct. 10, and runs through Oct. 30. An Artober artists’ celebration will be 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30.

Gallery hours are 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, and the exhibit is free. 

 “This is the first event of its kind for the university,” said Megan McNaught, gallery director and museum studies lecturer. “It’s a wonderful way to watch landscape painting while enjoying the Andalusia grounds. Come learn about the life and legacy of Flannery O’Connor, an important piece of Milledgeville history.”