Irish artist Róisín O’Farrell has created a concentrated and clearly structured course held over three days that focuses on painting technique, finding inspiration and overcoming the barriers to creativity. Together we will explore: How to use a limited palette, understanding color theory, really getting to grips with tonal value, the six-stage technique involved in painting a painting from start to finish, fundamentals of good composition, sketching, underpainting, applying paint – brush & palette knife, finishing up & evaluation. The workshop includes painting demonstrations and practical hands-on exercises to let you get some paint under your nails.
 
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Instructor: Róisín O’Farrell
Cost: $550
Sponsor: Painting Miles
Website, email

Established by artists Penny L. Arrowood and Michelle Davis Petelinz, Your Creative Connection, Haw River 2018 is an all inclusive, mixed media art experience set in the scenic foothills of North Carolina. Designed for women by women: a memorable event to inspire creative discoveries. Aside from travel to and from the venue, everything that students need is included: lodging, linens, studio space, instruction, supplies, chef-prepared meals, daily snacks, and engaging evening activities. Immersed in our art-venturing, we will explore surface design employing myriad mixed media techniques and a variety of mediums. Studio time is structured to inspire new-comers, seasoned artists, and creative writers alike. Our final day will feature a showcase of the work created during our time together.
 
Location: Browns Summit, North Carolina
Instructor: Penny Arrowood & Michelle Davis Petelinz
Cost: $1,500
Sponsor: Your Creative Connection
Website, email, 910-875-7416

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will teach you how to do each of these realizing there should also be a firm foundation of structure for your paintings using shape, value, color, edges, and center of interest. This workshop is not only about painting abstract compositions, but also about learning to loosen up and paint more freely. All who attend will be able to apply the lessons learned to their own style of painting in their studios.
 
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Instructor: David Kessler
Cost: $385
Sponsor: Painting Miles
Website, email

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will teach you how to do each of these realizing there should also be a firm foundation of structure for your paintings using shape, value, color, edges and center of interest.
 
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Sponsor: Painting Miles
Website, email

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will teach you how to do each of these realizing there should also be a firm foundation of structure for your paintings using shape, value, color, edges and center of interest.
 
Location: Winston Salem, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Sponsor: David M. Kessler Fine Art
Website, email, 336-418-3038

Let’s paint the bigger picture. This two-day intensive workshop combines demos, in-class assignments, and individual instruction to teach students the techniques to create fresh, deliberate marks on a big canvas. Using observational painting as our launching point, we’ll embark each day with energetic painting exercises designed to tap into each participant’s personal voice. The practice of working directly from life results in a heightened awareness and a lasting impression of the moment.
 
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Instructor: Lisa Daria
Cost: $380
Sponsor: Painting Miles
Website, email

Have you ever wondered how to Loosen-Up your painting style? Paint with more Freedom? Be more Spontaneous? Be more Expressive? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then my Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workshop is for you! I will teach you how to do each of these realizing there should also be a firm foundation of structure for your paintings using shape, value, color, edges and center of interest.
 
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Instructor: David M. Kessler
Sponsor: Jerry's Artarama-Art of the Carolinas
Website, email

Discover the "pointed potential" of colored pencil! Kristy Kutch, author of Drawing and Painting with Colored Pencil, The New Colored Pencil, and the featured artist in 4 instructional DVDs, has taught colored pencil workshops nationwide. She provides an informative and enjoyable classroom atmosphere. Both "traditional" (waxy) and watercolor pencils will be included, with fascinating "painterly" techniques for both types of pencils. Water soluble wax pastels (which resemble larger crayons) will also be featured. Explore a wide range of compatible papers and boards which lend themselves beautifully to this dynamic medium. There will be demonstrations, individual attention, many materials to sample, and a generous cache of take-home supplies for each student. Enjoy an unforgettable workshop in a top-notch studio atmosphere!
 
Location: Boone, North Carolina
Instructor: Kristy Kutch
Sponsor: Cheap Joe's Art Stuff
Website, email, 800-227-2788