Plein air painting sounds romantic. The reality includes wind, cold, heat, insects, and hands that must work regardless of conditions. Thomas has painted outdoors for thirty years.
"Your hands are exposed to everything. Sun, wind, temperature changes. They're holding brushes while dealing with whatever nature throws at you."
Adapting to Conditions
Thomas carries hand protection for every scenario. Tape for wind-chapped skin. Fingerless gloves for cold. Sun protection for long sessions. His hands must function in all of them.
"A studio painter controls their environment. I adapt to mine. That means preparing for anything."
The Paintings Remember
Thomas's paintings capture moments and places. His hands remember the conditions — the cold morning when fingers barely moved, the hot afternoon when sweat made brushes slip. Protection makes the work possible.