Plein Air Painters of Bermuda was started in Jonah Jones' backyard about seven years ago.

Since the group's inception it has held six show annually.

The objective is to introduce painters, at all levels of expertise, to the joys and tribulations of working on location.

The benefit for beginners is that they can see how more experienced painters solve visual problems and the growth that comes from painting on a regular basis. For professionals, it offers a chance to share expertise and get feedback on current work from their peers.

Each week, and depending on weather, an e-mail is sent out to the group, saying that the painters are planning to be at a particular location, most often on Sunday, but occasionally on a Saturday.

The meeting places vary from private homes to public spaces all over the Island. They start around 9.30 a.m. and paint until noon, at which time they put up all the work that has been done and have a group critique, the object of which is to help people grow and improve their skills.

During the session the more experienced painters in the group often spend time going around offering advice and encouragement to anyone who needs help.

Anyone can join – all the group needs is a current e-mail address. Painters working in any media are welcomed. There are absolute beginners and experienced professionals working side by side and presently there are over 60 names on the group's e-mail list.

Around 10 people show up for any given session, some come for a few sessions and then reappear a few months later.

For more information contact: Bermuda Art Centre at Dockyard on one of the following: artcentre@ibl.bm, www.artbermuda.bm or 441-234-2809.

Rhona Emmerson on either remmerson@aac.bm or www.rhonaemmerson.bm.

Chris Marson on either chrisgm@logic.bm or by visiting www.chrismarson.com.