The majority of Jay's paintings incorporate a method of working known as plein air. To paint out of doors, or en plein air is the term for painting directly from nature. Plein air originated in France, the birthplace of impressionism. The impressionist masters recognized the benefit of working on location. Painting out of doors greatly enhances the sense of color. The human eye catches subtle tones and hues that escape the camera's lens.

When the artist creates first hand from nature, he employs a kind of artistic shorthand. He ignores details that clutter and instead concentrates upon the features that make a compelling work of art. Accurate color, strong value patterns, interesting shapes and atmospheric mood work together in a strong piece.

Unlike working in the studio, plein air painting is a race with the sun to express the fleeting effects of color and light. The artist's encounter with his subject sparks a creative process that blends interpretation with realism. The resultant fusing of imagination and reality allows the artist to capture the essence of an area. The viewer is rewarded with a profound sense of being at the place pictured in the art.