Botanical Watercolor Class

5 WEEK CLASS - Tuesdays 1:30 - 4:00 pm      Materials List

2013 DATES
January 22 - February 19
March 26 - April 23
October 1 - 29

Download Registration Form (pdf) (print and mail registration with payment)

Cost is $125 Class includes 5 lessons.
Oregon Society of Artists annual membership is required

$30 before January 1, $35 after January 1 Sign Up
Location: 2185 SW Park Place (in Goose Hollow) free parking

Lesson 1: Drawing strategies
Lesson 2: Mixing and applying paint
Lesson 3: Composition and Design
Lesson 4: Painting Backgrounds, Fixing mistakes
Lesson 5: Framing or Applying a finish

Every class consists of instruction or demonstration of technique, plus working time. I also like to spend one-on-one time with students, to address issues or challenges voiced. My job, the way I see it, is to support the artist in creating their own expression. I want to work with each as an individual — recognizing and celebrating their strengths while looking for ways to grow or stretch their skills. I offer a few assignments where each artist can work on a subject of their choosing.

While I do provide photographs that can be used for art reference, I also encourage students to bring their own. Maybe a plant or a few leaves or even several photos. While many in this class do paint botanicals, I suggest painting what you love — an image you respond to — whatever it is. In this way your art will be a personal expression and will have meaning for you.

If you are just beginning to explore your expression of art, you will find this class to be a supportive environment. I encourage you to enjoy the journey. Avoid comparing yourself to others, and instead look for what you do well. Give yourself some space to learn. Most of us tend to be hardest on ourselves. But visualizing beyond what we are capable of expressing is a common experience with artists. Our proficiency never outpaces our imagination. That's what keeps us stretching beyond our comfort zone.

If you are coming to this class with a proficiency in place, you might be looking for inspiration, camaraderie, structure, or feedback on your work. Chances are, you will find that, and more. I really feel the basics are useful for us all — we hear what we need to hear when we are ready. It is not unusual for a student to take the class several times. I do not tire of the basic art principles, either!

Want to learn more about my art process? 
Check out my blog: http://renesnews.blogspot.com

Questions? Contact Rene at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 503-890-9668