Art Workshops, Classes & Retreats

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"Painting Impressive Skies in Oil & Acrylics"
September 4-6, 2025
 

If you wish to go beyond pleasant blue skies – this is a class for you. The wonder of skies offers so much to artists – the sunrises, sunsets, early evening, storms, etc. Bring your ideas and challenges and we will offer direction and solutions. This class was designed for intermediate acrylic and oil painters. It includes discussions regarding brush techniques, color mixing and improving values.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Mary Ann Browning Ford
Cost: $150
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Painting Retreat in the Adirondacks"
September 8-13, 2025
 

Recommended for artists of all abilities. Enjoy the throwback vibe of Terra Alta Vintage Cottages; family-owned since 1954. Situated on 14-acres of wooded property on the shores of beautiful Schroon Lake. Daily painting, classes & demonstrations with artist Michelle Shain (m44art.com). Artists will learn how to select subject matter, design a page, choose a color palette, paint with gouache and watercolor, experiment with hand-lettering and journaling, and create artwork! Recommended art supply list will be provided. Michelle will be on hand at all times to guide students. Art classes and demonstrations will take place in the Rec Hall and on the 30’ Rec Hall porch overlooking Schroon Lake. Maximum number of students is 14.
 
Location: Schroon Lake, New York
Instructor: Michelle Shain
Cost: $2,000
Sponsor: Terra Alta Cottages
Website, email, 516-661-6782


"Landscape Painting Retreat in Acadia with Philip Frey"
September 10-14, 2025
 

Philip Frey and Schoodic Institute are pleased to offer a plein air painting retreat designed specifically for dedicated landscape painters. This retreat will provide an opportunity for participants to hone their skills, gain deeper knowledge of materials, and develop confidence in their creative abilities. The retreat will be held in the picturesque landscapes of Acadia National Park and the Schoodic Peninsula. Each day will start early with an on-site painting session, followed by an early afternoon demonstration and critique. Participants will have ample time to engage in painting, explore the surrounding area, or relax at their leisure.
 
Location: Winter Harbor, Maine
Instructor: Philip Frey
Cost: Commuter - $1,175 / Residential - $1,740
Sponsor: Schoodic Institute
Website, email, 207-288-1310


"Plein Air Landscape at Haverford College Arboretum"
Thursdays, September 11 - October 16, 2025
 

Combine your love of artmaking and nature through the practice of open air painting at the Haverford College Arboretum. Featuring meadows, gardens, and wooded areas, including the college’s impressive historic tree collection in autumnal colors, this scenic location is the perfect place to learn the essentials of landscape painting. Veteran plein air artist Joe Sweeney will guide artists of all levels through both the artistic concerns and practical matters of open air painting. Topics include the basics of working outdoors as well as the aesthetic how-tos of color mixing to achieve a sense of light and air, capturing time of day, composition fundamentals, and sound drawing and painting practices. Instruction is geared toward oil/acrylic painting and pastel drawing/painting. Restrooms and parking available.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Joseph Sweeney
Cost: $375
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Paint Fast in Oils or Acrylics"
September 11 & 12, 2025
 

During this class, we will focus on how to create full spectrum compositions, using detail to create interest in the foreground and atmospheric perspective to create distance in the background. The object of this course is to learn to paint large enough to allow yourself to loosen up and enjoy the process. Bring a large canvas, nothing smaller than a 24" x 30"! You'll also bring a few photographs you are excited about and would enjoy painting. The object of this class is to paint large to enable yourself to loosen up and not be so fussy over details. We will use under-painting to speed up the process and overcome the intimidation factor of that big white canvas.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Nancy Mitchell
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Abstraction: Landscape as Source"
September 12-14, 2025
 

This workshop explores both plein air painting and the process of abstraction. In the mornings we will work in the traditional plein air approach -painting directly outdoors and developing our tonal relationships in response to the landscape, in search of a convincing sense of space and light. We will also explore a variety of ways of handling and applying paint, different kinds of mark-making, and see how these different kinds of marks relate to space, light, and form in different ways. In the afternoons we will work indoors using our morning paintings as source material for an ongoing and improvisational discovery of abstract painting. As the painting develops, we’ll experiment with making a mess! And exploring how to find order amidst the chaos.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jordan Wolfson
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"The Semi-Abstract Landscape"
Wednesdays, September 17 - December 10, 2025
 

In this intermediate-level landscape course, students will begin with a foundation in strong composition and shape, learning how to distill the complexity of expansive scenes into simple and expressive forms. The focus will be on shape and color, gradually eliminating non-essential details to reveal the essence of the landscape. Please bring your favorite landscape references to class- ones that have an apparent variety of shapes and values. Students will begin on small surfaces to complete small studies in week 1 and 2, progressing to larger formats in weeks three on. Please note that beginning oil painting skills will not be covered in this class. Medium: Oil, pastel, or acrylic (class is taught in oil).
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claudia Rilling
Cost: $570
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Landscape Painting in Studio: All Mediums"
Wednesdays, September 17 - December 10, 2025
 

Working from your own reference material, we will spend each week focusing on a particular aspect of landscape painting. Individual techniques will be held each session in a supportive atmosphere. Syllabus will be provided. Please bring painting materials to the first class. All mediums welcomed.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Bonnie Mettler
Cost: $570
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Stroke Up on the Basics of Good Painting in Pastels"
September 17-19, 2025
 

The classes will focus on Southern landscapes using references of the students' choice or those of the instructor. Discussion and demos will provide students with knowledge that can be used to improve their choice of subject and application of composition principles. Accuracy in shape-making and displaying depth through perspective and value will be stressed. Pastel instruction will focus on the application of the pastel to the sanded surface support used for pastel painting. Emphasis will be on underpainting, stroke making, optical color mixing, value-produced edges, and layering of strokes. Preservation of the work, transportation, and framing will be discussed and demonstrated. Pastel is a very permanent medium when applied and handled intelligently. All of this will be discussed in class.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Gary Baughman
Cost: $180
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Stroke Up on the Basics of Good Painting in Oils"
September 17-19, 2025
 

The classes will focus on painting Southern landscapes using references of the students' choice or those of the instructor. Discussion and demos will provide students with knowledge that can be used to improve their choice of subject and application of composition principles. Accuracy in shape-making and displaying depth through perspective and value will be stressed. Color mixing, brush and palette knife application of the medium, and edge treatments will be demonstrated by the instructor. Expecting to paint a masterpiece in class should not be a student objective. Learning the techniques and principles that will lead to prize-winning paintings, being awarded commissions, and obtaining gallery representation should be the take-away from class.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Gary Baughman
Cost: $180
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Exploring The Art of Acrylic Landscape Painting"
Thursdays, September 18 - October 30, 2025
 

Discover the joy of acrylic painting in a relaxed, supportive and inspiring environment. This class will equip you with essential techniques, including color mixing, composition, and brushwork, to bring dynamic landscapes to life. Using photo references as inspiration, we'll guide you through step-by-step painting processes, helping you develop your own artistic style. Whether you're a beginner or looking to take your skills to the next level, this class will provide you with the tools and confidence to create captivating works of art.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Lee
Cost: $235
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Vibrant Landscapes in Gouache"
September 20, 2025
 

This class will focus on color theory using a limited palette of colors to create two or more dramatic landscapes from your own images. Discover the best ways to apply gouache working from the larger shapes down to the details. We will be working smaller than 8 x 10. The instructor will provide demonstrations, instruction on color mixing and application. Discover more about gouache as a great medium for studies for larger pieces and for working "en plein air".
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Abby Ober
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Autumn Plein Air in Water-Media"
Saturdays, September 20 - October 18, 2025
 

Water-based paints such as acrylic, watercolor, and gouache are the perfect mediums for landscape painting in the open air! Painters of all levels enjoy the ease of these portable, fast-drying, and easy-to-clean-up alternatives to oils. Explore the vibrant color and versatile application and layering methods in your choice of these media as you portray the beauty of autumn in Philadelphia’s parks in your own personal style. Learn techniques for choosing a composition, mixing color, and working efficiently outdoors as you complete a series of rapid sketches and at least one sustained painting. Open to all levels. Painting locations featuring shade, restrooms, and other amenities may include Wissahickon Park, Washington Square Park, Glen Foerd overlooking the Delaware River, and Bartram's Garden.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michelle Oosterbaan
Cost: $315
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Master Painting a Sky"
September 27, 2025
 

Join us for an enriching 1-day acrylic painting class, "Master Painting a Sky," led by the esteemed and celebrated artist, Addison Palmer. Known for his expertise both nationally and internationally, Addison will guide you through the essential techniques and skills to create stunning sky paintings. Bring your own reference photos and immerse yourself in this hands-on experience designed to elevate your artistry. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field and transform your creative vision into reality! This class is designed for all levels of students, beginner to advanced.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Addison Palmer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Plein Air Landscape Painting at Ardrossan"
September 27-28, 2025
 

Kickstart your autumn painting experience with this two-day Plein Air workshop! This workshop will provide students the fundamentals for painting vibrant landscapes on location. We will focus on selecting and simplifying compositional elements and design, since a sound underlying structure is key to a successful painting. Following the demo, students will have plenty of time to work on their own paintings, with lots of individual attention.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Valerie Craig
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Four Seasons of Driftless Watercolor"
September 27, 2025 | 9a-5p
 

This one-day, no-pressure class is the perfect way to explore your creativity—no experience needed! Ages 11+ In this relaxed and supportive workshop, we’ll create four small paintings (11×14 or smaller), each inspired by one of the four seasons in the beautiful Driftless Area. You’ll be gently guided step-by-step through the process, with plenty of encouragement and personal attention along the way. We’ll provide four reference images to work from, but you’re welcome to bring your own photos or anything that inspires you—especially snapshots you’ve taken of nature in your favorite season. By the end of the day, you’ll have a lovely, themed set of seasonal paintings to take home—plus new skills and confidence to keep creating.
 
Location: Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin
Instructor: Richard Washburn
Cost: $100
Sponsor: River Arts Gallery
Website, email, 608-643-5215


"Working with the Landscape"
Tuesdays, October 7 - November 4, 2025
 

In this class, we will explore how the landscape can be interpreted to convey mood and atmosphere through the use of color, line, edge, and composition. We will look at landscape work from other artists and discuss the various options in assessing the landscape while choosing what to include. We will execute preliminary drawing and color studies, and at least one final work.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Michaud
Cost: $240
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Paint Fast in Oils or Acrylics"
October 9 & 10, 2025
 

During this class, we will focus on how to create full spectrum compositions, using detail to create interest in the foreground and atmospheric perspective to create distance in the background. The object of this course is to learn to paint large enough to allow yourself to loosen up and enjoy the process. Bring a large canvas, nothing smaller than a 24" x 30"! You'll also bring a few photographs you are excited about and would enjoy painting. The object of this class is to paint large to enable yourself to loosen up and not be so fussy over details. We will use under-painting to speed up the process and overcome the intimidation factor of that big white canvas.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Nancy Mitchell
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Photography On Location"
Wednesdays, October 15 - November 19, 2025
 

Join us for photography classes outside at local sites. Outdoor classes alternate with indoor meetings for sharing and getting feedback and suggestions. The first class will be outdoors where we will explore the environs, talk about strategies and options for focus, depth of field and exposure. Discussions will also include composition, point of view and perspective to get the best possible result in camera. The second class will meet at Wayne Art Center to share and discuss images, both successes and areas to improve. Bring your own DSLR or mirrorless camera. Compact cameras are acceptable. Tripods are optional.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Laura Ducceschi
Cost: $190
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Tree Foliage: A Beginners Approach"
October 18, 2025
 

This tree painting workshop dives into tree structure and how to capture a tree's personality in painting. We will focus on building the tree's gesture, capturing its shape and movement, and understanding how its foliage integrates into the larger form. Our goal is to learn how to generalize the tree's structure and capture its essence without getting bogged down in minute details. The class will include lots of one-on-one instruction and a lecture exploring how both historical and contemporary painters approach tree construction. Instead of aiming for finished paintings, we'll do several small studies to solidify our understanding of trees and how we can communicate their individual character. Some painting experience would be helpful. Students are free to work in oil or acrylic.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claire Haik
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Traveling with Watermedia Workshop"
October 18-19, 2025
 

This 2-day weekend workshop will cover all you need to know about traveling with your art supplies and how to make unforgettable memories. We will cover the essentials of equipment, composing a scene, beginning drawing, color sketches, and quickly generating a travel portfolio. The beauty of this course is, and I can testify, that you will stand out from the hordes of tourists and be treated especially well. Bring your favorite photos as well.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stewart White
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Finding Light and Inspiration in Your Photo References in Pastel"
October 23-25, 2025
 

In this workshop, beginning to advanced students will explore ways to create unique, personal works of art based on their own reference photos. Participants will learn how to find dynamic compositions with strong focal points and push color to enhance their vision. We’ll step away from the confinement of exact “copying” of reference materials and move toward finding our own interpretation of a scene. Jill Stefani Wagner received a B.F.A. in painting from The University of Michigan School of Art. She owned an award-winning advertising firm in Ann Arbor MI, before “seeing the light” and becoming a full-time artist. For more information, visit jillwagnerart.com.
 
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: Jill Stefani Wagner
Cost: $650 Museum members/ $700 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372


"Paint Fast in Oils or Acrylics"
October 23 & 24, 2025
 

During this class, we will focus on how to create full spectrum compositions, using detail to create interest in the foreground and atmospheric perspective to create distance in the background. The object of this course is to learn to paint large enough to allow yourself to loosen up and enjoy the process. Bring a large canvas, nothing smaller than a 24" x 30"! You'll also bring a few photographs you are excited about and would enjoy painting. The object of this class is to paint large to enable yourself to loosen up and not be so fussy over details. We will use under-painting to speed up the process and overcome the intimidation factor of that big white canvas.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Nancy Mitchell
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Storytelling in Watercolor"
Fridays, October 24 - November 21, 2025
 

In this fast paced and fun workshop, we will develop an understanding of how our paintings can and should tell stories. Paintings must make good use of visual language to draw our viewers in and make them part of the painting process. Join me as we learn how to make the magic happen!
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Stewart White
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Capture Fall En Plein Air"
October 31 & November 1, 2, 2025
 

This is a 3-day outdoor painting workshop for intermediate to advanced painters working in oils or acrylics. It will include lecture, demonstration and practice, the three ingredients to effective instruction and learning. We will cover some so called “basic” elements of Drawing, Value, Color, Composition and Edges... all put into a package called “Concept”, the basis for any painting that you paint. I will work with each student at their own level, and will spend a lot of time at students’ easels, giving individual instruction, and will demo everything that I ask you to do.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Marc Hanson
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"The Fundamentals of Plein Air Painting"
November 1, 2025
 

I will lead you through the process of capturing the overall essence of a particular place and will cover techniques to render the changing light and everyday development in the plein air setting. We will focus on a few key factors including drawing with color shapes, breaking down the motif into a minimum number of color values, the importance of edge quality, and the use of editing. I will conduct a quick painting demo highlighting the feel of the location and to help students with an idea of execution. The objective will be to lay in the whole underpainting, then we will break it down and reconstruct it through the layering process. We will conclude the painting workshop with a group critique.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Charles Newman
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Exploring The Art of Acrylic Landscape Painting"
Thursdays, November 6 - December 18, 2025
 

Discover the joy of acrylic painting in a relaxed, supportive and inspiring environment. This class will equip you with essential techniques, including color mixing, composition, and brushwork, to bring dynamic landscapes to life. Using photo references as inspiration, we'll guide you through step-by-step painting processes, helping you develop your own artistic style. Whether you're a beginner or looking to take your skills to the next level, this class will provide you with the tools and confidence to create captivating works of art.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Nicole Lee
Cost: $235
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Watercolor: Sunset Landscapes"
November 7, 2025
 

Join internationally renowned artist, Alan Shuptrine for an immersive watercolor workshop focusing on the beautiful palette of colors found in Sunset Landscapes! Attendees will utilize different watercolor techniques and will work with a broad range of colors and depth, creating multiple compositions. Born the son of recognized painter, Hubert Shuptrine (1936-2006), Alan has continued the legacy of realism that both Andrew Wyeth and his father Hubert established. A resident of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, Shuptrine’s pursuit of the arts includes schooling at The Baylor School (Chattanooga, TN); The University of the South (Sewanee, TN); and The University of Tennessee (Knoxville, TN). For more information, visit alanshuptrine.com.
 
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: Alan Shuptrine
Cost: $225 Museum members/ $275 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372


"Painting Trunks and Branches"
November 8, 2025
 

This workshop will concentrate on painting one of the most beautiful and challenging aspects of a tree: its trunk and branches. Trunks are rarely perfectly round; instead, their surfaces present a combination of flat planes and rounded forms that interlock together. The pattern of its branches, roots and rippling bark tell each tree’s life story. Our goal in this class is to simplify the tree's structure and capture its essence as effectively as possible. We will describe tree trunks using intentional brush marks and explore how small adjustments in color and value will bend branches into the foreground and background. The class will include lots of one-on-one instruction and a lecture exploring how both historical and contemporary painters approach tree construction.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Claire Haik
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Landscape from Photographs"
Thursdays, November 13 - December 18, 2025
 

This class will explore the process of working in the studio from photographs - looking at both historic and contemporary examples, as well as class demonstrations and individual instruction. We will sort through the inherent strengths and weaknesses of using the photograph as the basis for a painting. Jon will also discuss ways to manipulate your photos with the iPhone and how to choose the best photos from which to work.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jon Redmond
Cost: $240
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Water, Water, Everywhere: How to Paint Water in All Media"
November 15-16, 2025
 

Water: It’s all around us -- streams, rivers, lakes, oceans, atmospheric effects, and more. It's a key ingredient in watercolor painting, regardless of the subject matter. But how does the artist create the illusion of water in a painting, regardless of the medium? This two-day workshop will present key tactics an artist can employ when painting bodies of water. Examine the nature of reflections, water movement, how water appears under various weather and lighting conditions, and more. Instruction includes demonstrations and a review of the ways master artists historically have portrayed water in their paintings over the years. Open to all levels. Demonstrations will be conducted in watercolor, but instruction presents valuable information for painters of all media.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $225
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632


"Painting Landscapes in Alcohol Inks"
December 4, 2025
 

Discover the magic of alcohol inks in this vibrant art class, where creativity knows no bounds! This unique medium offers an exhilarating experience as vivid colors flow and blend right in your hands, perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists. Under Julie's expert guidance, you'll master the art of creating stunning landscape paintings on surfaces like Yupo paper and tiles, achieving breathtaking effects. Alcohol inks are versatile, allowing you to explore your creativity. They are transparent, acid-free, fade-resistant, and fast-drying, making them ideal for crafting dazzling, colorful pieces. Sign up today to unleash your inner artist! Students should bring $20 cash to pay instructor, who will provide all the materials you need (except cardboard to transport completed pieces).
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Julie Schroeder
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Acrylic Pouring, Landscapes & More: Choose Your Color"
December 9, 2025
 

We will be experimenting with many techniques including ones to achieve incredible landscapes and oceanscapes. Acrylic pouring is a vibrant art technique where liquid acrylic paints, thinned with a special medium, are poured onto a canvas, creating mesmerizing, fluid patterns and abstract designs that resemble swirling marble, with colors blending and merging in unexpected ways, resulting in a visually captivating, glossy finish that's both spontaneous and visually striking, often described as "liquid art" due to the unpredictable movement of the paint as it flows across the surface. All materials— 5 or 6 surfaces of varying sizes will be provided for a $20 cash fee. This class requires zero experience. Bring your bag lunch or purchase nearby.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Julie Schroeder
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Vista Views: Acrylic or Oil"
December 13, 2025
 

Distance contributes to the beauty of a scene and this workshop will focus on this goal by guiding you in expressing an atmospheric perspective from an image of your own. Mountain views, farmland or water views are some ideas to look for. Learn to make certain decisions, establishing deep space to create the most impact on your viewer. Inspiration from master and contemporary painters will be shared and discussed and Abby will provide individual attention throughout the day. Oil or Acrylic experience required.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Abby Ober
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553


"Painting the Poetic Landscape in Oils or Pastels"
January 27-29, 2026
 

Once you learn landscape painting basics, it’s time to learn how to add the poetry. Barbara’s goal is to equip you with skills that will move you beyond merely replicating landscape subjects, to conveying a distinct, poetic visual message that strikes an emotional chord with the viewer. Skills covered include composition, editing, value structure, color temperature, chroma, and edge control. Barbara will also address how to make every stroke count, considering the mark-making particulars of how you apply pigment to surface. Each day begins with a demonstration followed by students working on a painting exercise for the remainder of the day, while receiving plenty of individual help at the easel. Her demos will include both oil and pastel equally.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Barbara Jaenicke
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Painting with Palette Knife & Vibrant Color"
February 3-4, 2026
 

We invite you to register for this exciting 2-Day Palette Knife Workshop for oil & acrylic painters of all levels of experience. This workshop is designed to enhance your painting skills by focusing on palette knife techniques, enabling you to create impressionistic art with complementary colors. You'll learn to integrate these techniques with composition and color theory to elevate your paintings. Through daily demonstrations on various subjects and surfaces, you'll discover the joy of clean color and vibrant energy in your work. Whether you paint in a studio or en plein air, these skills will add excitement and versatility to your art. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your artistic toolbox and transform your source materials into dynamic compositions.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Trish Weeks
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Compelling Paintings Inspired by the Everyday Photo"
February 6 & 7, 2026
 

Discover how to transform your simple photos into vibrant, expressive paintings with Carole Forêt—an accomplished, widely respected artist with over 35 years of professional experience. Whether you're a beginner eager to learn the fundamentals or an intermediate artist ready to deepen your skills, this immersive two-day workshop will elevate your art practice. Bring 2-3 favorite photos (landscape/cityscape, printed or on a charged device. Through live demos, individual guidance, and a thoughtfully paced structure, Carole will teach you how to see like an artist—focusing on composition, value, color, and perspective. You'll also learn her signature process: building dynamic acrylic duo-tonal underpaintings that set the stage for luminous, colorful oil finishes. For more information, visit caroleforet.com.
 
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: Carole Forêt
Cost: $600 Museum members/ $650 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372


"Painting with Passion in Oils or Acrylics"
February 24-26, 2026
 

Join award winning artist and popular instructor, Eric Jacobsen, for this painting workshop where you will learn to loosen up your style and paint expressive landscapes. This oil and acrylics workshop is for students of all levels, beginner through advanced. We will focus on the fundamentals of good painting as it relates to landscape painting. We will cover the following topics: Composition, Value, Design, Choosing a Motif, Identifying and mixing accurate Warm and Cool Colors, Establishing a Focal Point as well as Tips and Do’s and Don’ts for the Landscape Painter. The workshop will be complete with informal lectures, instructor demos, group critiques and plenty of individual instruction. Please come and join Eric for an informative and enjoyable workshop experience.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Eric Jacobsen
Cost: $400
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Watercolor Plein Air Workshop in Sarasota"
March 27-29, 2026
 

Mastering your watercolor skills with Yeliseyev Method. Join Vlad this spring for a special 3-day workshop in beautiful Sarasota, Florida. This workshop offers more than just painting outdoors—it’s an immersive introduction to the Yeliseyev Method, a proven approach to watercolor painting that has inspired students around the world. What makes this workshop special: Learn Vlad’s unique system that simplifies watercolor painting into clear steps, focusing on composition, value, and expressive color use; Step-by-Step Instruction – From selecting the best location and “point of view” to quick value sketching, Vlad will guide you through every stage; Personalized Feedback – Receive one-on-one instruction at the easel as you work on your own paintings.
 
Location: Sarasota, Florida
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Cost: $625
Sponsor: Renaissance School of Art
Website, email, 941-330-6865


"Plein Air Painting in Watercolor"
May 2-3, 2026
 

Join renowned artist Catherine Hillis for an exhilarating 2-day plein air watercolor workshop tailored for beginner-intermediate and advanced students. Enhance your outdoor painting skills amidst nature's beauty with expert guidance. Discover the art of painting "en plein air," where you'll capture landscapes directly from your surroundings. Catherine will help you select the perfect equipment to match your style and choose ideal locations for painting. In this class, you'll gain practical insights on setting up your workspace and Hillis will show you how to follow structured steps in order to create vibrant watercolors. We will explore diverse subjects, like landscapes, gardens, and marshes while mastering composition and perspective. Enjoy daily onsite demonstrations that provide practical guidance and inspiration.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Catherine Hillis
Cost: $380
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Go Bold! Painting Dynamic Landscapes in Pastel, Oil or Acrylic"
May 16 & 17, 2026
 

Do you often wonder how to make your paintings stand out? This workshop will explore ways to make more compelling and powerful visual statements, focusing on the landscape for inspiration and subject matter. The workshop will consist of demos, painting exercises, group discussions, positive critiques and lots of hands-on individual attention. Oil and Acrylic painters are welcome to attend; however, demos will be done in pastel and then Mayfield will work individually with you in your medium. Make your paintings more expressive and visually interesting from start to finish, from choosing subject matter, editing reference photos, simplifying and improving design and composition, using dynamic value contrasts, pushing color schemes, and using color temperature to create mood and emotion.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Susan Mayfield
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


"Painting the Pastel Landscape: Tools, Tips & Techniques"
October 23-25, 2026
 

Join us for the "Painting the Pastel Landscape: Tools, Tips & Techniques" workshop with the renowned artist Eve Miller. This exceptional event offers a unique opportunity to delve into Eve's innovative approach to capturing the beauty of landscapes with pastels. Participants will gain valuable insights into establishing correct values, while the workshop emphasizes mastering color temperature, composition, and mark-making. Each day features engaging demonstrations, and you'll receive personalized, one-on-one instruction to refine your skills. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a passionate beginner, this workshop promises to enhance your artistic journey and elevate your pastel landscapes to new heights. Don't miss the chance to learn from a true master—secure your spot today!
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Eve Miller
Cost: $500
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738


 

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