Across five inspiring days, we'll dive into the captivating world of botanical watercolor together. My approach centers on grasping the why behind each technique, not just replicating what's in front of you. Instead of chasing finished paintings alone, you'll build the skills, observation habits, and decision-making instincts that let you paint botanical subjects with confidence long after the workshop ends.
Throughout our time together, I'll walk you through every step of the painting process, break down my thinking as I go, and pass along practical insights gathered over nearly ten years of teaching botanical watercolor to thousands of students worldwide.
Here's what we'll cover:
Sharpening your observation skills – training your eye to catch shapes, colors, values, and small details that give a painting life.
Grasping tonal values – a cornerstone skill for painting that feels realistic and three-dimensional.
Foundational brush exercises – developing confident strokes through deliberate water control and paint consistency.
Freehand botanical sketching – breaking down intricate flowers and leaves into simple shapes while sharpening your eye.
Using reference photos effectively – tips on photographing botanical subjects, selecting strong references, and transferring drawings accurately.
Mixing color with confidence – learning how pigments behave, achieving natural yet vivid botanical hues, and steering clear of muddy tones.
Laying luminous first washes – establishing transparent bases that let subsequent layers glow.
Layering for depth and realism – knowing when to glaze, blend, sharpen edges, or boost contrast without overdoing it.
Rendering realistic petals, leaves, stems, and fine details through controlled watercolor methods.
One-on-one feedback tailored to where you are and what you're aiming for.
A wealth of professional tips that make painting smoother, more enjoyable, and more rewarding.
You'll learn all of this in the same studio and landscape that shaped how I paint and think about art.
Each demonstration unfolds in clear, digestible steps, leaving plenty of room for questions, hands-on practice, and personalized guidance. Whether this is your first time exploring botanical art or you're refining skills you already have, you'll walk away with a richer understanding of botanical watercolor.
The true takeaway from this retreat isn't just a finished piece - it's the clarity and confidence to approach any flower, leaf, or botanical subject on your own.
