Find Your Watercolour Style: Colour, Shape & Composition
About this Event
Find Your Watercolour Style: Colour, Shape & Composition
Sunday 28 February 2027 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Melbourne Central Skybridge, Melbourne
Facilitator: Jaime Hoe
Overview
What kind of watercolour artist are you?
Discover three ways to paint, abstract, loose, and detailed, in this relaxed, hands-on watercolour workshop.
Explore how colour, shapes, brushstrokes, and composition can transform how you approach a painting. Experiment with simplifying subjects into abstract shapes, embracing expressive washes and capturing details through careful observation.
Through guided demonstrations and creative exercises, you'll have the opportunity to paint the same subject in different styles and discover which approaches resonate with you.
Whether you're a complete beginner or already enjoy painting, this workshop is an invitation to experiment, play and find your own creative voice.
No pressure, no comparisons – just curiosity, creativity and the joy of making art.
Description
There is more than one way to paint a subject. A flower doesn't always need to look like a flower, a landscape doesn't need every detail, and sometimes a few expressive brushstrokes can say more than a perfectly finished painting.
In this workshop, we'll explore three different watercolour styles and discover how each creates its own mood, personality and visual story.
1. Abstract – Simplify & Explore
See the world through shapes and colours. Learn to break down everyday subjects into simple forms, experiment with colour relationships and explore expressive compositions without worrying about realistic representation.
2. Loose – Flow & Express
Let go of perfection and embrace the natural movement of watercolour. Experiment with flowing washes, spontaneous brushstrokes, soft edges and unexpected colour combinations. Discover how to suggest a subject rather than paint every detail.
3. Detailed – Observe & Discover
Slow down and look a little closer. Explore careful observation, defined shapes, layering and fine details. Learn how small marks, tonal differences and thoughtful brushwork can bring a subject to life.
Exploring Colour, Shape & Composition
Along the way, we'll also explore some simple design principles that can make a painting more engaging:
- Colour: Explore colour harmony, contrast and relationships.
- Shape: Simplify subjects and discover interesting arrangements.
- Composition: Consider balance, focal points, visual movement and negative space.
Through demonstrations and guided exercises, you'll discover how changing your painting style can completely transform the same subject.
You don't need to settle on one style. Mix techniques, break a few rules and find the approaches that feel right for you.
Think like a designer, create like an artist.
Come curious, experiment freely and discover your own watercolour language.
Agenda
10:00 – 10:15 AM | Welcome & Introduction
- Introduction to the three watercolour styles
- Exploring colour, shapes and composition
- Looking at how different styles change the way we see a subject
10:15 – 10:40 AM | Abstract – Simplify & Explore
- Breaking subjects into simple shapes
- Exploring colour combinations and contrast
- Creating expressive marks and abstract compositions
10:40 – 11:05 AM | Loose – Flow & Express
- Experimenting with flowing washes
- Exploring expressive brushstrokes and soft edges
- Letting watercolour move and create unexpected effects
11:05 – 11:30 AM | Detailed – Observe & Discover
- Developing careful observation
- Exploring layering, shapes and fine details
- Using brush control to create definition
11:30 – 11:55 AM | Your Style, Your Way
- Experiment with your favourite approach
- Combine different styles and techniques
- Create a small painting inspired by your discoveries
11:55 AM – 12:00 PM | Sharing & Wrap-up
- Reflect on your creative discoveries
- Share ideas and take-home inspiration
Materials Included
Everything you need is provided.
✔ Professional watercolour paints
✔ Watercolour paper 120 - 300 gsm
✔ Brushes
✔ Palettes
✔ Water container
✔ Practice warm-up prompts
✔ Take-home inspiration handout
Just bring yourself, your curiosity and a willingness to experiment!
FAQs
Do I need previous watercolour experience?
Not at all! This workshop is beginner-friendly. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or looking to explore new ways of painting, you'll be guided through each style step by step.
What will I learn?
You'll explore three watercolour styles – abstract, loose and detailed – while learning how colour, shape and composition influence the look and feel of a painting.
Will I learn how to develop my own style?
Absolutely! The workshop encourages you to experiment with different approaches, discover what you enjoy and develop confidence in your own creative choices.
Are materials included?
Yes! All essential watercolour painting materials are provided. Just arrive and enjoy the creative experience.
Will I complete a painting?
You'll complete several guided exercises and have time to create a small painting using your favourite style or a combination of approaches.
Can I attend with a friend?
Absolutely! Bring a friend, partner or family member and enjoy a creative morning together.
Is this workshop suitable for teenagers?
Yes, mature teenagers are welcome. Children under 12 should attend with an accompanying adult.
What if I can no longer attend?
Please check Eventbrite’s refund/reschedule policy on the event page. Alternatively, contact the organiser to transfer to another workshop.
Where is the location?
📍 Melbourne Central Skybridge — meet near the glass walkway between Melbourne Central and Emporium. Look for a watercolour palette and smiles!
Will I get a reminder before the workshop?
Yes — we’ll send you an email reminder with the exact meeting details 2 days before the event.
Your art doesn't have to look like anyone else's.
Explore different styles, play with colour and discover the joy of painting your way.
Come curious, leave inspired!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
AUD 48.96
