Introduction to Watercolor Workshop

Introduction to Watercolor Class at Intuitive Touch!

Ready to dive into the world of watercolor? This 4-hour workshop is perfect for both beginners and those looking to refresh or refine their skills. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or seeking to enhance your existing techniques, this class will guide you through the vibrant and fluid world of watercolor painting in a fun, relaxed environment.

You'll learn foundational techniques like color mixing, washes, layering, and texture creation, all while exploring the unique properties of watercolor. All materials are provided, so you can jump straight into the creative process without worrying about a thing. Our expert instructor will lead you through hands-on exercises and exciting projects that will help you gain confidence and develop your own artistic style.

By the end of the class, you’ll leave with a finished watercolor piece and a stronger understanding of the medium, whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your technique. Join us for a truly inspiring and enjoyable experience, where you can unleash your creativity and connect with fellow art enthusiasts.

Class Overview:

• Welcome & Class Overview (10 minutes)
• • Brief introduction to the world of watercolor painting.
  • Explanation of goals and key concepts.
• Materials Overview (20 minutes)
• • Watercolor paints: Understanding different types (pan, tube, liquid).
  • Brushes: Different shapes and sizes, and how to choose the right one.
  • Paper: Importance of good-quality watercolor paper (hot-pressed, cold-pressed, rough).
  • Palette & Mixing: Basics of mixing colors and using a palette.
  • Other Supplies: Water containers, paper towels, masking tape, etc.
• Basic Watercolor Techniques (30 minutes)
• • Wet-on-Wet: How water affects paint flow.
  • Wet-on-Dry: Crisp lines and controlled edges.
  • Gradient Wash: Creating even tones and transitions.
  • Color Mixing: Primary, secondary, and tertiary colors.
  • Brush Control: How to control your brush for different effects.

Hour 2: Exploring Color Theory & Values

• Understanding Color (20 minutes)
• • Primary Colors: Red, yellow, blue.
  • Secondary Colors: Orange, green, purple (and how to mix them).
  • Tertiary Colors: Creating more complex shades.
  • Warm vs. Cool Colors: How they influence mood and composition.
• Value & Contrast (20 minutes)
• • Light vs. Dark Values: How to create depth and dimension in your work.
  • Shading & Tinting: Adding black, white, or gray to adjust values.
  • Creating Contrast: Balancing light and dark areas in your painting.
• Hands-on Practice (20 minutes)
• • Students will practice creating simple washes, gradients, and mixing colors on their own.
  • Focus on developing a feel for the flow of water and pigment.

Hour 3: Compositional Techniques & Brushwork

• Basic Composition (20 minutes)
• • Rule of Thirds: How to divide your composition for a balanced image.
  • Focal Points: Creating a visual flow through your painting.
  • Simplicity: How to avoid overcrowding your artwork.
• Brushwork Practice (20 minutes)
• • Stippling: Small dabs for texture.
  • Lifting: Removing paint from paper for highlights or corrections.
  • Fine Details: Using a small brush for precision.
  • Textures: Creating different textures (e.g., leaves, grass, water) using various brush techniques.
• Hands-on Exercise (20 minutes)
• • Students will practice brushwork techniques on small compositions like leaves or flowers.

Hour 4: Creating Your First Watercolor Painting

• Concept Development (10 minutes)
• • Plan out a simple composition (still life, landscape, or abstract).
  • Discuss how to approach the composition using the skills learned so far.
• Step-by-Step Painting (30 minutes)
• • Begin creating a simple watercolor painting under instructor guidance, using the techniques learned in earlier hours.
  • Focus on layering colors, creating contrast, and refining brushstrokes.
• Final Touches & Review (20 minutes)
• • Discuss how to add finishing details to your painting.
  • Tips on how to know when a piece is "done."
  • Group discussion and feedback on each student’s work.
• Q&A and Next Steps (10 minutes)
• • Open the floor for questions and provide resources for continued learning.
  • Suggestions for further practice and inspiration sources.

Host or Publisher Mady Dietrich