Jumpstart/Refresher Watercolor Basics – Onsite Class (Ages 13+)

This six-hour introductory workshop provides a solid understanding of important basic watercolor techniques and theory for beginner watercolorists and those who feel they want a “refresher” course. Some drawing experience is helpful but not essential. There will be instructional lecture time with ample “hands on” instructor assistance. Written handouts for reference will be sent prior to class.  In this session students will:

• Create a basic color palette
• Learn the different types of brushes and how to use them to achieve the desired effect as well as proper brush care
• Learn color mixing
• Explore the color wheel and the use of analogous and complementary colors
• Be introduced to various types of watercolor paper
• Learn how to properly prepare lighter weight paper for painting (stretching)
• Understand the concept of “the rule of thirds” and finding a “focal point”
• Discover the unique properties of watercolor versus other painting mediums
• Be introduced to the importance of perspective
• Work with the effective use of light to produce shadows and reflections
• Study the principles of design and composition and the role of “value”
• Learn the importance of basic drawing skills
• Produce a compositionally balanced 11 x 14 watercolor painting

Students are encouraged to bring a snack. 

Materials List

Brushes:  Medium size flat or wash brush; small flat brush; small and large rounds.

Suggested Paints or Equivalent:

Basic Palette Colors

Alizarin Crimson

Cadmium Red

New Gamboge or Yellow Ochre

Lemon Yellow or Cadmium Yellow

French Ultramarine Blue or Cobalt Blue

Cerulean Blue

Viridian

Burnt Sienna

Indigo

Optional Additional Colors (These are not required since we can make our brown and grey from the basic palette colors. Some people like to use these however.)

Payne’s Grey

Sepia

Van Dyke Brown

Recommended brands: Daniel Smith and Winsor Newton

Watercolor Paper:  One sheet of 11×14, 140 lb, 200 lb or 300 lb cold pres

Please note: this class is hosted onsite in our classroom. If you are joining us for onsite programming, we ask that you adhere to signage and procedures posted on our campus. Face masks are required at all times and you are advised to keep 6 feet (2 meters) between you and others. Class size is limited .