Watercolor class

The first series of watercolor classes at Imagine Gallery has concluded.  We were trailblazers-the first time classes have been held at the Gallery.  The owner developed the idea to bring in more traffic during the winter months. We all configured the back section into a "pop-up" session each week and it worked out well.

We endured two snowstorms that delayed the beginning, and the end we were missing 5 who couldn't drive through it.  I wanted to post the last class photos at the bottom of this entry so they can see what we did.  We missed you!

The over all theme was about loose techniques for either beginners or experienced painters.  It was a great mix of ages and levels, men and women.
The first two classes were spent learning variegated washes, and a variety of things you can do with pigment-lifting, hard and soft edges, negative painting, splattering paint, (a favorite!) and a bit with texture using salt and cling wrap.

The third class incorporated variegated washes and splatter.  We did "galaxy" paintings, used a hair dryer to speed up drying so we could splatter the stars with white acrylic.  Lifting a moon out if desired.  Added some simple impressions of trees.

The last class used masking with painters tape and salt for texture. The design is birthday candles. This ended up being great fun and presented lots of possibilities for  colors and designs.  Everyone has friends, children or grandchildren who would love a card painted just for them.

Masking off the candles and flames

Variegated wash on wet paper. You can sprinkle salt on wet paper for texture if desired. Let dry, then remove salt.

You can use any color for background. Mask off cake too if desired!

Remove tape and paint candles and cake.

Have fun with patterns on candles. This student did a light yellow wash around the flames to illuminate that area.

This couple came every week and had a blast!