Held in connection with the Petaluma Museum’s exhibitTime & Tide: An Artful Exploration of Petaluma’s Wetlands, this community paint out invites artists of all levels—from beginners to experienced plein air painters—to gather, observe, and create in the open air.

Painting outdoors—en plein air—offers a unique way to connect with the landscape. At Ellis Creek, you’ll experience shifting light, birdlife, and the quiet movement of water while capturing the wetlands through your own creative lens.

Whether you’re trying plein air painting for the first time or are a seasoned artist, this is a welcoming, low-pressure opportunity to slow down, observe, and create in community.

Good to Know:

Morning light is ideal, and we recommend arriving between 8:00–9:00 AM, with painting continuing through noon.

Ellis Creek offers free parking, restrooms, scenic views right from the lot, and easy access to painting spots near the ponds and along the trails.

The parking lot for the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility is close to 3882 Cypress Dr. Petaluma, CA 94954. GPS Coordinates: The main parking lot is at 38 13 35N, 122 35 08W approximately.

Guided instruction is not provided, but there will be opportunities for informal guidance, tips, and shared learning from fellow painters throughout the morning.

What to Bring:

A simple plein air kit might include:

• Portable easel (French easel or pochade box)
• Painting surface (8×10″ or 9×12″ panels or watercolor block)
• Paint (oils, acrylics, or watercolor)
• Brushes and/or palette knife
• Water or solvent container (with lid)
• Pencil for sketching
• Paper towels or rags
• Folding chair or stool
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, umbrella)
• Drinking water

Optional:

• Wet panel carrier or wax paper for transport
• Spray bottle (acrylics) or masking tape (watercolor)