Plein Air Painting at St Nicholas Church, Slaughterford

This painting was done on a lovely late summer day in the village of Slaughterford, Wiltshire. I set up my easel near the sloping field looking up towards St Nicholas Church. The warm light caught the church walls beautifully, and I wanted to capture that glow against the cooler greens of the hillside. The sky had soft clouds drifting by, giving a gentle contrast to the landscape below.

When painting outdoors, I love working quickly to catch the changing light. I used a mix of warm earth colours for the church and a blend of bright greens for the grass and trees. The figures walking up the slope add a bit of life and balance to the scene. It’s always satisfying when you can suggest people with just a few brush strokes!

Painting on location like this reminds me why I enjoy plein air so much. You feel the breeze, hear the birds, and everything you paint feels more real. The village church, the cottages, and that peaceful countryside view made this one of my favourite sessions of the summer.

This painting of St Nicholas Church is for sale. Please contact me if you’re interested.