James Coulter Art Box
This is my plein air set up, the James Coulter Art Box, which happens to be one of my favorite pieces of art equipment -- it is sturdy, functions well, and sets up in a snap. There are a few different sizes of palette boxes available. James, who is also an artist, recommended that I get the large size, which offers ample room for paint mixing. (Well, it may not be large enough for Leslie Saeta's workshop), but you get the idea! This set sells for about $275, including tripod, palette box and palette holder. A brush holder, and additional clamps for holding stretched canvas are also available, but not shown here. Every time I attend a painting workshop, or just paint plein air with friends, I am asked about this easel. I cannot say enough good things about it!
The reason I mention this is because James Coulter will be the guest on Artists Helping Artists Radio Show tomorrow (Thursday, February 23rd), hosted by Leslie Saeta and Dreama Tolle Perry. To learn more about this fantastic plein air system, tune in and listen to James. Check for air time here.
The easel of my dreams!! Seriously, this is top on my list of wanna haves. Thanks for the review. You have the large size... is that still pretty easy to carry around when plein air painting? I would like the large also but was worried about bulk.
ReplyDeleteI'll be tuning in to listen tomorrow. Thanks for the heads up.
Cathy, It takes up slightly more room than the smaller one, but the payoff for me is worth it. When the two side panels open out (as in the photo) I can place my Gamsol on one side, and supplies on the other side. I believe that Carol Marine still uses this system also, with a smaller box. I can place a roll of paper towels either on a bungey cord in front, or slip it on the handle of the tripod (behind the panel). The brush holder fits to the side of the palette.
ReplyDeleteI have one too and love it. I bought the small one and plan on using it for workshops most of the time. So easy to carry!
ReplyDeleteThank you Maria. I forgot to mention that for air travel, I would use a smaller palette box.
ReplyDeleteI love my Coulter Easel too! I have the medium size. And I'm not sure any box is big enough for Leslie's workshop!!
ReplyDeleteHaha, Dottie -- I would agree with you!
ReplyDeleteI learn so much from my painterly friends! It does look like a great set-up for workshops and plein air painting. Thanks, Linda! :)
ReplyDeleteI have thought about this and think it will go to the top of my equipment must have list. Thanks for the recommendation.
ReplyDeletebest easel I've ever had-I have two. Smaller for plein air, larger for workshops. Sturdy, easy to put together and take down-I had a plexiglass palette made at the local hardware store that fits inside perfectly. great post
ReplyDeleteThank you Chris!
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