Tuesdays, September 15, 22, & 29
Join Susan Grant for a class in watercolor basics. You will learn basic color theory while mixing colors to complete a color wheel to keep. You will also practice methods to apply colors to the paper as you paint several small paintings and a basic landscape. In the final session, you will create a painting from your own photo. All materials will be provided; just bring yourself and your enthusiasm.
Susan has been a watercolor artist for more than 30 years. She paints in the studio from photographs and also outdoors as a participant in plein air events in western North Carolina. Susan has also been fortunate to paint outdoors in Italy and Ireland.
Artist Statement:
Even with my logical, mathematical nature that led to an engineering degree, I have loved art for as long as I can remember. I fell in love with watercolor painting over 30 years ago. My engineering background naturally leads into my realistic style of painting; I particularly enjoy painting animals, especially capturing the personality of a pet, a loved member of the family. When participating in plein-air events, I am drawn toward architectural subjects, again a nod to my engineering background. (Plein air is a French term that means to leave the studio and paint outdoors from life.) My medium of choice is transparent watercolor for the fresh, clean colors that result from building layers of “washes” onto the paper. However, I have also discovered that gouache (opaque watercolor) with its rich, saturated color, can also result in striking pieces.
Art Education:
2018 & 2019: Portrait painting classes with Kay Robb
2017 & 2018: 5-day plein-air workshop in Ireland
2013: “A Non-Traditional Approach to Watercolor”, 2-day workshop with Kate Worm
2006, 2007 & 2016: “Painting the Tuscan Landscape”, 7-day plein-air workshops with Jean Cauthen in Italy
2004: “Painting the Cityscape” plein-air workshop with Kate Worm
2002: 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Marilyn Hughey Phillis
2001: “Find Your Direction,” 5-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Skip Lawrence 2000: “Traditional Watercolor”, 3-day workshop with nationally recognized watercolorist Joe Miller
1989-present: Multiple instructors in western NC, mainly through Catawba Valley Community College
Affiliations:
Signature member of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina
Member/officer of Foothills Painter
Photo: Ireland Sunset by Susan Grant