Taking that leap to start something completely new can be scary. Don’t worry. I’ve got your back!

Through a slow pace and step-by-step instruction, you will learn practical methods to unfold into the practice of watercolor. Rather than working towards a finished art piece, you will be focusing on basic techniques that can be incorporated into a daily meditative practice.

When getting started with a new hobby or creative endeavor it’s easy to get preoccupied with the finished products we’ve seen around us. With painting, this can often lead to a premature sense of defeat when the thing we make doesn’t look like what we set out to do.

It’s crucial to go easy on ourselves and remember that we are at the very beginning. You can’t expect to ride a bike perfectly the first time you touch one, and the same goes for any new art practice. While developing honing skills are essential to a meaningful and sustainable painting practice, with time they will follow a genuine curiosity and slow play with the medium itself.

The bottom line is you’ve gotta start someplace! We all tend to be too hard on ourselves, but this class will help you get started with gentle kindness towards yourself.

IN THIS COURSE YOU WILL
– Become familiar with tools for watercolor painting
– Get a tutorial on how watercolor paints work
– Discuss and explore how the act of painting can be a powerful tool for emotional healing, self-care, and managing stress.
– Learn how much water to use on your brush for different outcomes
– Practice meditative techniques like enso circles, wet washes, and slow brush lines
– Try different ways to work “back into” a dry area of paint
– Try different blending methods
– Learn ways to get a painting started without needed to come up with what you want to paint
– Learn ways to keep a watercolor painting from getting out of control
– Leave this workshop connected more deeply to yourself and others in the workshop

We will start our time together with introductions. From there we’ll discuss how to create your own judgment-free zone for your painting. Once settled, we’ll take our time and go through a variety of relaxing painting methods one at a time.

This workshop is not like most classes out there on watercolor. We are painting for self-care and to develop a meaningful relationship with the medium itself. I like to keep the class size small to foster connections between you and me as well as with other participants. Community is a huge part of a sustainable, nourishing art practice.

THIS CLASS IS FOR YOU IF
> You’re curious about watercolor painting but unsure where to begin.
> You feel disconnected from your creative self and wish to unlock your innate ability to express and innovate.
> You’re looking for creative and meditative practices to destress and develop deeper self-awareness.
> You’re interested in using watercolor to develop a more relaxed state.
> You’re battling self-criticism and fear of judgment, seeking ways to freely express yourself.
> You value the creative process over the finished product and want to explore art without the pressure of expectations.
> You’re seeking a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore and develop your creativity.
> You’re interested in practical watercolor techniques to establish a foundation for your art practice.
> You see art as a means of self-care and personal expression, wanting to connect more deeply with yourself and others.
> You desire to meet and connect with like-minded individuals on a creative journey.

You feel there’s more to life and are eager to explore what lies beyond your current routine.

SKILL LEVEL
Beginner – No experience required! If you are looking for a workshop for people with a little watercolor experience and less instruction, try Stress-Free Watercolor 2.

WHEN & WHERE
The Candy Factory Studios, 321 North Market Street, Lancaster, PA 17601

MATERIALS
I will supply you with a basic set of watercolors and brushes.

You are required to bring your paper. I recommend a pad of Canson XL Watercolor paper or any other 300gsm weight watercolor paper.