Jump Start – Watercolor Basics (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.  This workshop condenses two previous 4 hour workshops into a day-long session where students will:

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

Bring a snack or bag lunch.

Supply list: Supplies can be rented from the instructor with prior notice for a $35 fee or students may bring their own.  Email Shirley at [email protected].

Brushes:

• Medium size flat or wash brush
• Small flat brush
• Small and large rounds

Suggested Paints or Equivalent:

• Alizarin Crimson
• Cadmium Red
• New Gamboge or Yellow Ochre
• Lemon Yellow
• French Ultramarine Blue
• Cerulean Blue
• Viridian
• Optional: Payne’s Grey, Burnt Umber, Burnt Sienna

Watercolor Paper

• 1 sheet of 11×14”; 140, 200, or 300lb cold pressed watercolor paper. Extra paper for practice.

Misc:

• Water container
• Paper towels
• Soft pencil for sketching
• Kneaded eraser
• Ruler (optional)
• Palette for mixing paint

Class Refund Policy