What do People Say to you when you are Plein Air painting in public places????

[Lacy Dutton]

Recently I was painting outside my condo in Hilton Head Island at the gazebo, and the yard workers kept driving by.  Then they all decided they need to work on stuff near me, and soon I was getting my stair rail replaced and mulching done.  I hadn't said a word to them, but they were so interested in my painting that it seemed new workers kept showing up.  My husband noticed the activity and came out to sit on the porch and hang out with me for a while.  I was dressed in shorts and a short sleeved t-shirt.  One worker said he liked the sky and the clouds I'd painted, and the gazebo got comments.

What are your experiences?  What do you do if there's more unwanted attention?  I am a young woman, so I need to be sure that I am safe.  I want to get out there, but there's sometimes I worry. 

LacyD

[Doug]

Sounds like you need a big dog, pepper spray or a couple of friends. I think that you are right to worry as these days there are some real weirdos around. 

Speaking as a guy, even I've noticed that there are some males that just can't take 'no' for an answer from a woman and back off.

Not trying to scare you, just caution you.   It might be worth it to join a sketch/painting club in your area-that way you would always have painting buddies on your outings.

Best of luck.

Doug