Successfully producing expressive, painterly paintings from photographs requires a knowledge of both the advantages and potential pitfalls of photographic sources. While providing useful visual information, photos often mislead - distorting subjects and flattening the picture plane. In this workshop students will use photographs as a point of departure, a reference point from which information will selectively and intelligently be drawn. Students will be encouraged to develop a more defined understanding of their connection to their selected subjects. Developing an enhanced visual awareness of compositional design, the importance of shapes, color harmony and paint application is critically important. This workshop will help students learn to “see” as painters. They will be challenged to take chances, be bold, expressive and spontaneous.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Georganna Lenssen
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Learn to use India ink and watercolor to create drama and mystery from nocturnal and low-light subjects in this one-day, intensive workshop. Develop a drawing on rag paper from your photo references then layer ink and watercolor to develop a deep, rich surface. Add gouache and drawing media for contrast and definition.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michael Kowbuz
Cost: $95
Sponsor: Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio
Website, email, 267-514-8647

Join us for this exciting class with Julie Schroeder. Discover and energize your inner artist and loosen up with exciting new watercolor techniques. This will be a fun class with watercolor techniques. Using color, texture, layering, expressive mark making, & splattering, we'll be experimenting with different professional papers. In this workshop, our main project will be a lovely landscape created with handmade papers on 140lb watercolor paper. We'll be layering on beautiful rich color in a wet into wet beginning with a special technique combining papers layered onto the watercolor paper. This creates a beautiful textured 3-D look! Experienced painters as well as those who are new to watercolors will both enjoy this fun and exciting exploration of watercolor.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Julie Schroeder
Cost: $180
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

In this workshop, we will explore some amazing techniques with watercolor pencils, some traditional and some experimental. We'll be laying on beautiful color with brushes and fresh paint for some backgrounds and then layering on textures with color sanding and stencils. We will also be exploring some brush techniques. Be prepared to uncover the amazing qualities of watercolor! Students should bring $20 cash to pay instructor, who will provide most of the materials you need. You are still responsible for bringing a few small items.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Julie Schroeder
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Paint with the medium of your choice (Oil, Watercolor, Acrylic, Pastel, Charcoal, Colored Pencil) in a relaxed atmosphere with as much instructor help as you want. Bring in new or unfinished work you want to do. Short demos, techniques, and critiques will be available to assist you. Realism, impressionism, or something more modern is all welcome. This class is appropriate for beginner painters, intermediate painters and advanced painters of any medium. The main purpose of this course is one-on-one assistance from the instructor with whatever you need help with (fixing, composition, specific subjects, etc.).
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Dennis Lake
Cost: $150
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Maintain your studio practice and push your work to new levels amidst a thriving arts environment of classes and working degree students on PAFA’s campus – with the benefit of the expert advice of PAFA’s leading critics! Students participating in this program will pursue their own independent work under the focused guidance of one critic, PAFA appointed faculty Jill A. Rupinski or Peter Van Dyck (selected during registration), for one-on-one critique and discussion four times per semester (once monthly). Possible additional group critique or other opporunities may be available, pending scheduling.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski or Peter Van Dyck
Cost: $2,275
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

In this class Chris will have 2 paintings prepared (floral & island landscape) to demonstrate the basics and more advanced techniques. Watercolors have been popular for centuries. Learn this intricate medium with this step-by-step approach. Chris will guide you through the techniques and help you develop skills needed to produce beautiful paintings. He will not only tell you how, but also show you! With just a few simple tools – water, pigments, brushes, and paper. In this beginner’s guide, we will explore the world of watercolor and delve into its many techniques! For more information about Chris, visit his website at www.dreyerdesign.com. This course is designed for beginner level students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Chris Dreyer
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

This class is for those who would like to work in art but do not know where to start and/or with what mediums! We will start with pencils, charcoal and work our way through watercolor, acrylic, pastels and oil and any others that students may be interested in. Barb will explain the pros and cons of each of the mediums including prices and other materials you'll need for that medium, including, brushes, surfaces and framing. At the end of the session, students will have time to try them all on a small scale. In addition to the registration fee, students should bring $20 cash to pay the instructor for materials, all of which she will provide to you.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Barb Snow
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Expand the boundaries of traditional watercolor painting! Explore the wonderful range of effects that may be achieved by incorporating compatible water-soluble materials such as ink, watercolor pencils, and opaque pigments, as well as toned surfaces. Demonstrations and examples of masterworks will illustrate traditional and contemporary techniques, with a wealth of practical and technical advice provided. Observational study in PAFA’s still life studio may be supplemented by options to work from personal sketches, photo sources, recognized artworks, and memory or imagination. Students will be encouraged to experiment, explore, and develop their personal expression with water-media.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Jill A. Rupinski
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Enrich your knowledge of painting with an in-depth look at watercolor. Thoroughly investigate a wide range of watercolor materials and techniques from your choice of landscape, still life, portrait, and figure subjects. The course is designed to equip each participant with the knowledge and skills necessary to make accomplished, personally rewarding watercolor paintings. Open to watercolorists of all levels and to acrylic/oil painters looking to broaden their skills.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $675
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Bring in those drawings or paintings that you would like help with or bring some ideas of a work you'd like to start. Each piece will be explored with individualized assistance and inspiration. Working alongside students, Jana demonstrates possibilities to practice and incorporate into your art. Other demonstrations will be offered throughout the day for inspiration and help in learning new skills. Breaking down seemingly complex problems into simple steps can help you see your work in a whole new way. You may work from your own photos or from creative still-life projects that will be set up in our workspace. We may even pair up and sketch each other for fun! This class is designed for intermediate and advanced students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Jana Stiles
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Taking the leap to start or cultivate an art-making practice in a private studio space can be both exciting and daunting. Learn how to create work and stay motivated on your own terms in this new and unique combination studio-rental and classroom course! Tuition for this fifteen-week/full-semester program will confer an individual studio space in PAFA’s Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building, as well as weekly meetings for critique and instruction on a variety of artist’s concerns led by artist-instructor/critic Roger Chavez. Weekly meetings will feature both one-on-one critiques/discussions as well as group instruction on art topics designed to motivate and assist you in your work, including drawing sessions from models, assignment prompts, materials and techniques demonstrations, museum visits, and critiques from guest critics.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Roger Chavez
Cost: $2,275
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Enrich your knowledge of painting with an in-depth look at watercolor. Thoroughly investigate a wide range of watercolor materials and techniques from your choice of landscape, still life, portrait, and figure subjects. The course is designed to equip each participant with the knowledge and skills necessary to make accomplished, personally rewarding watercolor paintings. Open to watercolorists of all levels and to acrylic/oil painters looking to broaden their skills.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $675
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Beginning with Caravaggio’s 1599 Basket of Fruit, still-life has a long history as a vehicle for transforming the commonplace into powerful statements. Take part in this intriguing tradition by exploring the symbolic and narrative potential of the unique object arrangements in PAFA’s dedicated still-life studio. This course is also ideal for gaining or advancing essential painting skills as you expand your understanding of color, composition, application and layering techniques, and painting materials. Instruction will focus on oil and acrylic paints, but gouache is also permitted. Previous drawing experience strongly recommended. Painting experience helpful but not required.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Frederic Kaplan
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

If you have ever wanted to try to paint in vibrant, transparent watercolor but didn't know how to start, this is the class that will introduce you to classic watercolors and the methods used to create fluid, pleasing results. Learn all the basics from a former university art professor to get you started on an exciting journey. This workshop will cover: paints - and how to set up your color palette, brushes, types and weights of watercolor paper, color mixing, brushwork and care of materials. All will be demonstrated and practiced. Come prepared to paint as Alex leads you from design to still life. Detailed information handouts are included and all your materials are supplied for a $20 fee!
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Alex Sharma
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Paint with the medium of your choice (Oil, Watercolor, Acrylic, Pastel, Charcoal, Colored Pencil) in a relaxed atmosphere with as much instructor help as you want. Bring in new or unfinished work you want to do. Short demos, techniques, and critiques will be available to assist you. Realism, impressionism, or something more modern is all welcome. This class is appropriate for beginner painters, intermediate painters and advanced painters of any medium. The main purpose of this course is one-on-one assistance from the instructor with whatever you need help with (fixing, composition, specific subjects, etc.).
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Dennis Lake
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Chris will demonstrate multiple paintings (seascape, floral, & island theme) from beginning to completion. Areas of demonstrations and techniques will include, design, drawing, color, value, washes, glazing, wet in wet, masking, dry brush, lifting out and more. Chris will guide you through the techniques and help you develop skills needed to produce beautiful watercolor paintings. He will not only tell you how, but also show you! For more information about Chris, visit his website at www.dreyerdesign.com. This course is designed for intermediate and advanced level students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Chris Dreyer
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

This class is for those who would like to work in art but do not know where to start and/or with what mediums! We will start with pencils, charcoal and work our way through watercolor, acrylic, pastels and oil and any others that students may be interested in. Barb will explain the pros and cons of each of the mediums including prices and other materials you'll need for that medium, including, brushes, surfaces and framing. At the end of the session, students will have time to try them all on a small scale. In addition to the registration fee, students should bring $20 cash to pay the instructor for materials, all of which she will provide to you.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Barb Snow
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

If you have ever wanted to try to paint in vibrant, transparent watercolor but didn't know how to start, this is the class that will introduce you to classic watercolors and the methods used to create fluid, pleasing results. Learn all the basics from a former university art professor to get you started on an exciting journey. This workshop will cover: paints - and how to set up your color palette, brushes, types and weights of watercolor paper, color mixing, brushwork and care of materials. All will be demonstrated and practiced. Come prepared to paint as Alex leads you from design to still life. Detailed information handouts are included and all your materials are supplied for a $20 fee!
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Alex Sharma
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

3-day Studio Workshop. Students will learn how to approach complicated scenery and to convey its character without resorting to endless details' depiction, and master watercolor application techniques in a loose bold brush style of painting. Included in this workshop: How to define existing scapes into three focal planes to tackle any subject matter; use different painting techniques for each focal plane; finish your painting with intricate details and energize your painting with powerful brushwork; paint loose and where and why to use a particular application technique in your painting and how to apply the power of unifying wash; use the sword liner for painting trees, brunches, wires, polls and other details requiring calligraphy; use of white gouache for highlight.
 
Location: Dahlonega, Georgia
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Cost: $625
Sponsor: Art Loft
Website, email, 706-429-6008

Register now! Don't wait! Spend two days exploring the wonders of watercolor painting with Catherine Hillis! Review the basics of good painting and delve into advanced composition, creating drama, building a narrative and perhaps incorporating texture into your work. The class will be introduced to many of the texturing techniques available to the contemporary watermedia painter. Each student is encouraged to work from their own resource materials (Please bring photographs of your own copyright to work from). This class is great for beginner-intermediate and advanced students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Catherine Hillis
Cost: $350
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Interested in learning or improving your watercolor skills? All materials and techniques will be discussed, including the selection of papers, brushes, and pigments, as well as transparent and opaque painting methods. Students will work from still-life subjects and/or their own source material. All levels welcome.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $225
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Bring in those drawings or paintings that you would like help with or bring some ideas of a work you'd like to start. Each piece will be explored with individualized assistance and inspiration. Working alongside students, Jana demonstrates possibilities to practice and incorporate into your art. Other demonstrations will be offered throughout the day for inspiration and help in learning new skills. Breaking down seemingly complex problems into simple steps can help you see your work in a whole new way. You may work from your own photos or from creative still-life projects that will be set up in our workspace. We may even pair up and sketch each other for fun! This class is designed for intermediate and advanced students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Jana Stiles
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Paint with the medium of your choice (Oil, Watercolor, Acrylic, Pastel, Charcoal, Colored Pencil) in a relaxed atmosphere with as much instructor help as you want. Bring in new or unfinished work you want to do. Short demos, techniques, and critiques will be available to assist you. Realism, impressionism, or something more modern is all welcome. This class is appropriate for beginner painters, intermediate painters and advanced painters of any medium. The main purpose of this course is one-on-one assistance from the instructor with whatever you need help with (fixing, composition, specific subjects, etc.).
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Dennis Lake
Cost: $250
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Expand your artist’s eye by learning different ways of seeing, loosen your grip on realism, and move into an exploration of essence. In this workshop, you’ll interpret your observations of the surrounding natural environment to create abstract art that is wholly your own. With an iterative approach, you’ll lean into different mediums, including watercolor, graphite, oil pastel and cut paper, to distill the characteristics of landscape. Along the way, creative process insights are shared that can free your hand and strengthen your visual voice. This workshop is appropriate for all levels of students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Meg Kaczyk
Cost: $350
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Chris will demonstrate multiple paintings (seascape, floral, & island theme) from beginning to completion. Areas of demonstrations and techniques will include, design, drawing, color, value, washes, glazing, wet in wet, masking, dry brush, lifting out and more. Chris will guide you through the techniques and help you develop skills needed to produce beautiful watercolor paintings. He will not only tell you how, but also show you! For more information about Chris, visit his website at www.dreyerdesign.com. This course is designed for intermediate and advanced level students.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Chris Dreyer
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

This course of study is designed for students who are ready to take their drawing & painting skills to a higher-level incorporating methods that have been passed down through the ages. These methods offer a much more efficient and effective way to achieve life-like, 3 dimensional-appearing results and a level of refinement. If you have a strong desire to hone your skills and try a different way of seeing, drawing, and painting this is a potentially on-going course that can help you achieve a level of mastery that is well beyond the usual. Group and individualized instructions will be used with demonstrations and drawing/painting-along-side-you assistance. Practice and critiques between classes is offered and encouraged.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Jana Stiles
Cost: $200
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

This workshop will equip you with the skills and knowledge to break free from photo references and create artworks that resonate with the light and atmosphere of plein air painting. We will move beyond simply copying photographs & instead focus on creating painterly and convincing watercolors that capture the essence of plein air work. The key to this transformation is learning how to paint light rather than just rendering objects as they appear in the photo. As a professional artist, understanding how to paint light is what sets you apart.
 
Location: Jupiter, Florida
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Cost: $595
Sponsor: The New Studio for The Visual Arts
Website, email, (561) 295-5712

Explore the painting techniques of the masters who pioneered the 19th and 20th century American watercolor movement, including Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Edward Hopper, and Charles Demuth. Characterized by bright color and bold handling that includes accents of opaque watercolor and loose washes, work in this tradition captures subject matter with dazzling light-filled effects. Practice these classic methods and learn to incorporate them into your own artwork to achieve a greater freedom of expression as well as adaptability and control in the way that you paint. Demonstrations and art historical discussions will be combined with short and more extensive still life and self-portrait exercises. This course is appropriate for beginning and intermediate levels.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Richard Estell
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

This class is for those who would like to work in art but do not know where to start and/or with what mediums! We will start with pencils, charcoal and work our way through watercolor, acrylic, pastels and oil and any others that students may be interested in. Barb will explain the pros and cons of each of the mediums including prices and other materials you'll need for that medium, including, brushes, surfaces and framing. At the end of the session, students will have time to try them all on a small scale. In addition to the registration fee, students should bring $20 cash to pay the instructor for materials, all of which she will provide to you.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Barb Snow
Cost: $50
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

This workshop is designed for the painter who has at least a basic command of the watercolor medium, the serious beginner to the advanced student. After Tony's demo, he will work with students individually and can adjust based upon each students' individual needs. Students will have the opportunity to work from supplied photos, or their own if they wish, during the workshop.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Tony Armendariz
Cost: $450
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Join award-winning artist Kathie George for this fun mixed media class. Day 1 – Watercolor Batik with wax and watercolor. Put the two together on textured rice paper and wow! You get a look you cannot achieve any other way. Kathie will lead you step-by-step through the process, teaching all the important skills you need. No watercolor skills are necessary. Day 2 – Sunflower Mixed Media Collage. We begin by building a beautiful background with colorful art tissue papers. You will learn how to stain your own papers, too. Then we’ll dig in and have a blast learning collage, “pulling” our subject from the background. Then work along with Kathie step-by-step as she demos how to paint the beautiful Sunflower.
 
Location: Bryan, Texas
Instructor: Kathie George
Cost: $310
Sponsor: Degallery
Website, email, +1(979)704-3090

Embody the spirit of spring with fresh and immediate painting! Learn to capture the essence of a living, botanical subject quickly and spontaneously in pencil and watercolor. This alla prima method can be used for preparatory studies for sustained paintings, compiling a field sketchbook, or as an end in itself. All levels welcome. Tuition includes a $10 materials fee to cover floral subjects.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Linda Gist
Cost: $205
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Gouache (opaque watercolor) is the perfect medium for landscape painting in the open air! Painters of all levels will fall in love with this portable, fast-drying, and easy-to-clean-up alternative to oils. Explore the medium’s vibrant color and versatile application and layering methods as you portray the beauty of springtime gardens in Philadelphia’s parks in your own personal style. Learn techniques for choosing a composition and working efficiently outdoors as you complete a series of rapid sketches and at least one sustained painting. Topics will include color, paint materiality/texture, transparent and opaque layering techniques, color mixing and historical palettes, pigments, and paper choices. Open to all levels. Painting locations featuring shade, restrooms, and other amenities.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Michelle Oosterbaan
Cost: $375
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Capture the small-town beauty Manayunk's hilly streets, rowhomes, and storefronts. Learn to create a convincing sense of space, light and time of day while depicting streetscapes, trees, water and sky. Color mixing and painting techniques for oils will be demonstrated, but all drawing/painting media are welcome. Located just 15 minutes outside of Philadelphia, Manayunk offers engaging urban and riverside neighborhood subjects with parking, shade, provisions and facilities available. Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to painting locations.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Larry Francis
Cost: $295
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Join me for 4 days of sketching with watercolor in beautiful Sonoma. We’ll enjoy the free-flowing and colorful nature of watercolor at its best while sketching and having fun! I’ll help you develop observation skills, color awareness, simple design principles and learn about light and shadows. We’ll investigate various techniques, sketching tools, and approaches to watercolor. Enjoy time with fellow artists, instruction and friendly critiques.
 
Location: Sonoma, California
Instructor: Brenda Swenson
Cost: $1,590
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-483-5713

Join award-winning artist Natalia Andreeva for this gouache painting workshop. Natalia will do demonstrations in gouache, but other mediums are welcome. Natalia will lead you through the steps of designing your composition, format selection, judgments of perspective and illumination; she will discuss techniques of working with color and will take you all the way, till the very final touch. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn how to create impressionistic art with a Signature Member of the American Impressionist Society.
 
Location: Bryan, Texas
Instructor: Natalia Andreeva
Cost: $180
Sponsor: Degallery
Website, email, +1(979)704-3090

Join Debi as she walks you through dry and wet media and the joy that comes when those media come together! If you're looking to add some wow factors to your own body of work, taking it to that next level, or, if you want to learn a few new techniques, this is the perfect class for you!
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Debi West
Cost: $40
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Join me for 4 days of sketching with watercolor in beautiful Sonoma. We’ll enjoy the free-flowing and colorful nature of watercolor at its best while sketching and having fun! I’ll help you develop observation skills, color awareness, simple design principles and learn about light and shadows. We’ll investigate various techniques, sketching tools, and approaches to watercolor. Enjoy time with fellow artists, instruction and friendly critiques.
 
Location: Sonoma, California
Instructor: Brenda Swenson
Cost: $1,590
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-483-5713

Learn to paint the portrait in watercolor! Instruction will cover drawing the head structure and features, mixing flesh tones, various application techniques will be discussed. Materials and techniques will be discussed, including the selection of papers, brushes, and pigments, as well as transparent and opaque painting methods. Students will have the option to work from portrait models or their own photo source material. All levels welcome. Tuition includes a $35 models fee. All levels welcome.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: James Toogood
Cost: $260
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Artist Table is returning to the USA! In April we will meet in Central Florida with a new retreat concept, a luxury hotel, lush surroundings, and an immersive art experience. We will sketch, paint, and develop new skills as we travel around the beautiful community of The Villages, surrounded by lakes, tropical landscapes, and quaint town squares. Painting around the nature and water streams of the Villages. Also offering an Encaustic workshop given by a local artist. A visit to Walt Disney's EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, three meals a day, lodging, and transport are included. This all-inclusive art retreat, delicious meals, exclusive day trips, and art-making. It will be a trip you won't forget.
 
Location: The Villages, Florida
Instructor: Tali Farchi Kathleen keller
Cost: $3100
Sponsor: Tali Farchi ArtisTTable
Website, email, +1 (321) 262 9236 or +31 6 24903316

Fresh, beautiful flowers in the studio will be the inspiration for the beginning of this dynamic workshop — progressing to the head and figure. Through a series of quick and fun drawing and painting exercises, students will develop a more loose and natural approach, giving all an opportunity to be more spontaneous and expressive in their paintings. In our approach to the head and figure, we will learn to express translucent flesh tones, while focusing on the gesture of the person. Painting children will also be covered. We will work primarily from photos (you can work from mine — ones I will demo, plus extra that may interest you). Please feel free to bring your own photos also — ones that inspire you!
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Janet Rogers
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514

For me there is nothing more joyful and relaxing than making art! I love allowing my intuition to guide me as I develop a work of art. I also find so much inspiration in nature, and I love including natural forms and textures, along with botanical elements, in my artwork. I invite you to join me to develop a series of abstract watercolor & mixed media paintings. Over the course of the workshop, I will demonstrate and provide guidance through many of my favorite painting techniques. We’ll create custom blends of color, learn techniques for layering and adding texture to our watercolors, explore the fundamentals of composition, and take lots of inspiration from the Connecticut springtime blooms.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Jocelyn Benford
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514

Come and paint in beautiful Santa Fe! Carol Carter will share her unique watercolor technique, painting from background to foreground, using dynamic and inventive color. We will begin each day in the studio with a watercolor tutorial where Carol will share her watercolor techniques. The workshop will provide templates, reference photos and materials information. The session will conclude with a small critique around 4pm. At the end of the day, we will walk the beautiful downtown of Santa Fe for some museums visit, wine tasting, photography, sketching, and of course we will give you free time for shopping. Relax, enjoy, learn a new watercolor technique or two among the camaraderie of other artists while savoring great local food.
 
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Instructor: Carol Carter
Cost: $1,690
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-483-5713

Join me for an unforgettable painting holiday in Santa Fe, a region famous for its stunning scenery and captivating light. During the workshop, all of the logistics will be taken care of by my good friends at French Escapade. All we have to do is relax and enjoy our days spent sketching in this strikingly beautiful part of New Mexico. We’ll have plenty of time to capture once-in-a-lifetime experiences on the pages of our watercolor journals. My teaching will focus on illustrated watercolor journaling. You’ll learn how to add style and interest to your sketchbook pages through the use of unique page layouts and borders, and we’ll cover several fun new lettering styles. I’ll offer daily demonstrations of painting techniques.
 
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Instructor: Leslie Fehling
Cost: $1,690
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-483-5713

Join me in Carmel and Pacific Grove, where we’ll experience the wild beauty of rugged Pacific shores, the enchanting fairy-tale cottages, and historic Mission architecture that make this place so unique. I’ve designed this workshop to give you confidence sketching wherever you happen to be. I’ll show you how to keep your watercolour sketches loose, fresh and vibrant. And I’ll share my techniques for capturing the beauty that surrounds us, so you can savour it for years to come.
 
Location: Carmel, California
Instructor: David Daniels
Cost: $3,790 before Nov 30th
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-483-5713

During this exciting retreat, you will learn to paint florals, looking at colour, composition and techniques and how to approach flower painting creatively with a focus on the process rather than the outcome. Victoria will demonstrate a wide variety of materials and show you how to be explorative and experimental, letting go of the fear of making mistakes. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced level artist, you’ll develop the confidence and skills to creatively loosen up, be more spontaneous, and let go of self-doubt. You’ll be provided with a huge array of gorgeous flowers as inspiration. Quick and easy exercises will introduce you to collage and mixed media techniques. Victoria will be on hand, offering support and advice.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Victoria Johnson
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514

Enjoy an evening of experimentation and fun while you learn the fundamentals of watercolor. You will learn basic watercolor techniques while you paint a wide range of subjects such as still life, landscape, florals, animals, etc. Watercolor techniques you will learn include basic washes, values, texture, glazing, color mixing, mingling, and more. You can expect tips and guidance throughout the painting process. All materials included. Classes are offered on Wednesdays.
 
Location: Bryan, Texas
Cost: $35 per class or $140/month
Sponsor: Degallery
Website, email, +1(979)704-3090

Join a fun watercolor class with the professional instructor. If you are looking for critiques and guidance from the instructor or a fun gathering alongside other watercolor lovers, this class would be perfect for you. You will learn watercolor techniques while you paint a wide range of subjects such as still life, landscape, florals, animals, etc. No basic painting exercises or demonstrations are given so participants should have some experience with watercolor but need not be advanced. All materials included. Classes are offered on Wednesdays.
 
Location: Bryan, Texas
Cost: $35 per class or $140/month
Sponsor: Degallery
Website, email, +1(979)704-3090

These classes are for older kids who enjoy art and wish to improve their skills. Painting (oil, acrylic, watercolors), drawing, sculpture, and many other creative techniques will be taught in these advanced classes. The classes are led by a well-known local artist whose work is represented in major galleries in the US and Europe. His sculpture is featured at the entrance of the College Station airport. Classes are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
 
Location: Bryan, Texas
Cost: $30 per class or $85/month
Sponsor: Degallery
Website, email, +1(979)704-3090

Why flowers? I have always been drawn to painting flowers in my work. To me, flowers represent the healing power of beauty. I believe that the world could use a little more beauty (and art). I am delighted to share my love of flowers and my process of painting with all of you! Come arrange, sketch and paint flowers with me. During this five-day intensive workshop, we will explore shape, line, and color through a variety of expressions, including sketching, collage, and painting. We will use mixed media techniques to layer and create beautiful expressive florals. I will be walking artists through exercises to loosen up their process, create from a place of joy, play with color, and explore composition.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Wendy Brightbill
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514

I am constantly in awe and inspired by nature and I believe she’s our best teacher! I cannot wait to lead you in this exploratory workshop where we will use and study elements from nature to create a wide variety of beautiful art. From watercolor and stamped flowers, pressed elements and mark making in sketchbooks and journals, to mixed media, collage work and pattern play… it will be a wonderful, creative time together!! Whether you haven’t picked up a paintbrush since elementary school or you create art daily, I love teaching new techniques, sharing my process and favorite materials and I promise you will learn a lot, love what you create, and have fun and be inspired by nature!
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Caroline Simas
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514

In this workshop, our main focus will be on the art of capturing and portraying light. Light plays a vital role in bringing depth, atmosphere, and realism to any artwork. Participants will have the opportunity to explore a range of techniques that can be employed to effectively represent light, including glazing, wet-on-wet, and drybrush techniques.
 
Location: Pensacola, Florida
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Cost: $675
Sponsor: Palette Productions
Website, email

Join us for an inspiring workshop where we'll dive into an exciting variety of subjects, from bustling streetscapes and serene boats to breathtaking landscapes. You'll discover how to tackle complex scenes with ease, focusing on capturing their true essence without getting overwhelmed by details. Through bold, expressive brushwork and vibrant watercolor techniques, you’ll learn to infuse your paintings with life and energy, confidently portraying the character and mood of your subjects. Sign up by May 15th, 2025 is required.
 
Location: Falmouth, Massachusetts
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Cost: $560-610
Sponsor: Falmouth Art Center
Website, email, 508.540.3304

Fresh flowers for each student at beautiful Dillman's Resort will be provided to inspire all for this energetic and enlightening workshop, in which we will explore watercolor in a spontaneous and intuitive way. Learning how to interpret Flowers - then the Head and Figure will be featured as Janet provides pathways to learning for all levels. The studio will be available 24/7 for students. Janet will also provide photos and drawings of her demonstrations of the head - students are welcome to paint what she paints or paint from their own photos. The goal of this workshop is to discover the magic and intuition of capturing life in our paintings!!! - and having fun all the way!!!
 
Location: Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin
Instructor: Janet Rogers, AWS
Sponsor: Dillman's Bay Resort
Website, email, 715-588-3143

This is one of the most favorite genres for watercolor artists. In this course we will analyze the three basic principles of landscape construction — three rules without which it is simply impossible to create a convincing and expressive watercolor. You will learn how to create atmospheric landscapes by manipulating tonal values, color and edge. Michael will show how to paint luminous landscapes and how to add emotions to your artwork. You will understand how to draw the right sketch and capture a picture in a dynamic and fresh style. You can expect plenty of individual attention and helpful demonstrations throughout the workshop.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Michael Solovyev
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514

Watercolor paintings can be so much more than a checklist of watercolor techniques. David goes beyond paint application basics and shows how to construct strong, vibrant, personality-filled paintings. David firmly believes that planning does not destroy creativity, but creates opportunity. Daily one-on-one critiques and demos will be vital to helping you find your watercolor voice. Students will learn: • how to find the essence of your subject matter • how to construct compelling compositions • to see shapes, not objects • how to create a color strategy • how to use frisket to achieve batik-like effects • the importance of value patterns in your work • how to paint loosely while staying true to your subject matter.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: David Daniels
Cost: $1144 + Materials fee
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-916-0514