On Friday, October 26, I’ll teach my class Exploring Watercolor Basics for the first time. It will be an all-day class at my studio. I’m really looking forward to it, although I know from experience that the first time teaching a class always involves stumbles along the way. I’m not gonna worry about it, we’re going to have a great time and I’ll take the lessons learned from the day and tweak the curriculum as necessary for smoother results next time!

Here’s the class description:

Explore watercolor basics and build your knowledge, skill, and confidence in the medium! Topics covered include the properties and potential of watercolor, tools and materials, brush and paint handling tips, paint characteristics and color choices, traditional techniques, color mixing, light and shadow, making colors glow and pop, the process of constructing a painting, next steps discussion/Q&A.

Our subject for painting practices during class will be eggs, which are simple to draw, yet reflect light and color fabulously–offering many fun painting challenges. Also, they can be arranged in many pleasing and interesting compositions. You will never look at eggs the same way again! Each student will receive a half dozen fresh multi-colored eggs from my chickens to use during class and take home to enjoy later. 

This all-day class is crammed with information, demos, and guided practices. Students will take notes, complete practices, and incorporate instructor handouts in a watercolor journal that will be completed by the the end of the class and serve as a valuable reference for future work.

This class is geared mainly for those with little or no watercolor experience who want to develop baseline skills upon which to base further exploration of the medium. Drawing skills are not required. Students will be supplied with a blank journal, paint, and all other materials EXCEPT for brushes. Bring two good quality sable (costly but preferred) or soft synthetic or natural/synthetic blend watercolor brushes:

• #8 or #10 round with a sharp point

• 1/2” or 3/4” flat with a sharp edge (not a wash brush)

Brush quality will make a world of difference in your results. Buy the best you can afford. DickBlick.com is an excellent online source for quality brushes at a discount. 

Light refreshments provided. Bring your own lunch (mini fridge and microwave available).

Instructor: Carole Pivarnik
Location: Brindle Studio, Castleton

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (half hour lunch break)
Date: Friday, October 26, 2012
Limit: 4 students (min. of 3 required to hold class)
Fee: $60 (cash, check, or credit card)

As I post this, there is one seat open. If you or someone you know may be interested, give me a shout!