Jan Guarino: “Fearless Watercolor”

I once was you. Seeking and searching for teachers, classes, workshops, dvds, books, magazines, on-line sites - anyone, anywhere to help me find myself in this incredible medium. I wanted to learn whatever I could to advance my art. Sometimes I was elated on what happened in a class, but mostly it lead to disappointment - BUT there were pearls worthy of holding onto and integrating into my work!It was from that very frustration I created my classes - based on what I needed as a student and artist, adapted it when it worked, and added it when it was lacking or simply not there.

I took the very best of these opportunities and composed this workshop - a variety of techniques, not just in the actual watercolor but in the teaching as well. You may not know me, but I know you. As a student I understand what you wish to get from a workshop and as a teacher I know how to deliver it. I welcome you join me on an amazing 4 day workshop that will be filled with the best of the best. It will be tangible and adaptable to enhance your own work.

ARTISTIC PHILOSOPHY:My intention is always to create an unexpected depiction of the subject, a colorful interpretation, not a literal translation.  I enjoy using this unusual color palette to bring you into the painting and though, you may have been seen that place before, you feel you are looking at it for the very first time.  A humble subject is suddenly worthy of careful notice because of the unexpected depiction. 

PURPOSE:This program is a culmination of ideas I have discovered, techniques I’ve adapted from classes and workshops I have taken ~ it is my desire to interpret a subject matter to render it unique, fresh and worthy of being a painting.  This medium is unique in the fact that it moves on its own which causes many artists to freeze up and begin to try to control the paint. This workshop shows you techniques that will allow you to feel free while holding onto detail, gain control, make corrections and have fun. Learn to trust your instincts with color and add contrast and allow blossoms, drips and splatters to work for you.  You will also learn what makes a good photo to paint from to get the very best painting possible. I offer solutions and tools to try these techniques to integrate into your own artwork.  Whether a beginner, someone who has painted in watercolors or more experienced, everyone can gain knowledge and techniques from this workshop.

OUTLINE:Each morning and afternoon we will work on different subject matter to build confidence. I will demo - the very heart of learning - give individual help and constructive critiques.  We will paint florals, landscapes, animals and end with a portrait that builds on all the previous days lessons. Materials are chosen to give artists the maximum chance of success with these techniques.  I SO enjoy teaching my watercolor techniques, theories and joy with all of my students. It is my hope that you find enjoyment in interpreting your world with paint, splatters, drips and color by embracing the unexpected and unplanned that only a watercolor can give you! 

Artist Website

Registration Fee: $650

Student Capacity: 15

All Levels Welcome with some experience

Register now, book your stay and more here, on the Book A Workshop page.