I'm Sarah Manolescue, a British plein air painter working directly from the subject in all seasons and weathers. Inspired by light, I seek to capture fleeting moments in time, working alla prima (Italian for 'at once'). I work predominantly on small boards because I believe small often results in little gems – distilled observations that say just enough.

Each painting is a unique, one-of-kind piece. You cannot get these anywhere else.

Sarah painting outdoors with a scenic landscape in the background

capturing fleeting moments

CHASING LIGHT ACROSS BRITISH LANDSCAPES

For over twenty years, I've been discovering who I am as a painter and what I want to say. I've reached a point where I know – I want to honestly observe and interpret the world around me and share what excites me in paint.

Decades of painting plein air have taught me to make quick decisions, distilling a scene to its essence with scant but believable brushstrokes. The viewer is there with me, experiencing that exact moment when the light stopped me in my tracks.

READ MY FULL STORY

WHAT COLLECTORS SAY

  • "I can't get over how beautiful it is. I sat and stared at it for a good 15 minutes and saw more and more in the painting. You have such a brilliant and original style – being able to capture the essence of a view, but also the feeling of standing there, in that light, at that moment. It is magic."

  • "Absolutely beautiful, and the frame compliments it wonderfully. We are so pleased to be the new custodians."

  • "What an uplifting scene, my favourite palette of colours, it's fantastic! Thank you – I could become addicted."
VIEW AVAILABLE WORK

art inspired by light

BROWSE AVAILABLE WORKS

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VIDEO: WHAT IS PLEIN AIR?

perfect christmas gift

SIGNED BOOK

This beautiful book shows the artist how to develop their own unique way of seeing and interpreting light and colour in oils, using plein air painting as the foundation (painting outdoors direct from life). It serves as a catalyst for exploration, both out in the field, and back in the studio. Packed with finished examples and step-by-step sequences, it guides you through the beguiling challenge of painting the light, demonstrating how to say ‘just enough’ in your own work.

The perfect Christmas gift for friends, family – or yourself.

£18.99 plus P&P

ORDER YOUR COPY