Watercolors can be intimidating. To be successful, you need to know how to control and give up control all at the same time. It should look and feel effortless—yet it takes an understanding of the medium.

In this weeklong workshop with artist and educator Jan Guarino, explore one of the most important aspects of this medium—the element of surprise that happens when you get out of the way and allow the paint to move in water. Jan says that watercolor is all about how the paint flows and what happens in its wake. Deciding to control it or allow it takes time, patience, and practice.

As you relax and find ease in your body, mind, and soul through art, you learn to:

• Understand how your paint will behave by embracing the beauty of watercolors
• Complete brush strokes
• Use the color wheel
• Work with mud, textures, and the natural properties of watercolors
• Correct a watercolor with many different methods

Flowers will be our main subject, and as we gain knowledge, we can move into more complex subjects such as a window with a flower box, a landscape, or even a pet.

Sample images of paintings will be provided prior to the workshop as well as Jan's typical supply list and access to videos for you to review. No prior knowledge of painting is necessary.

If you have supplies, bring the following:

• Brushes: Synthetic or part synthetic brushes in sizes: 1, 8, 10, 20 rounds. Black silver velvet brushes available on Cheap Joe's website. Escoda Prado and Perla are lovely brushes as well in 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and 1" flats and angled flats as well as a rigger. Scrubber brushes.
• Paper: 140 lb Arches Cold Press, either sheets or a block. 9x12 is a perfect size to get started. Do not buy inferior papers such as Canson or Strathmore that are on pads.
• Professional grade paints: Colors and brands that are professional grade such as: Daniel Smith, Holbein, Windsor Newton, or any professional brand.
• Paint Palette: Mijello Fusion 33 or any palette you have available.
• Miscellaneous: Items such as a brush holder, water container, large spray bottle, dot spray bottle (everettswatercolors.com), old toothbrush, dish drying mat, transfer paper (not carbon paper), mechanical pencil, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Additional supply details will be sent upon registration.