Iain Stewart Says:
In all my workshops I like to try and cover dramatic skies, water in different forms, landscape, and the urban environment including entourage, people, cars, boats, etc. At the beginning of every workshop I ask all students to say a few words about what they would like to take away from the time spent together. I take that information and begin to compile a particular methodology where I can at least touch on everything the students have said is important to them. For me at least, I teach the way I would enjoy being instructed. I am no fan of pulling rabbits out of hats. I want my students to understand my decision making process and why I make certain choices when working.

I demonstrate wet on dry, wet in wet, dry brush, basic and complex washes, as well as how to break down complex forms into their most basic geometry and build from there. 

“We are so good at adding detail by nature. We are rarely as adept at letting that detail go. Similarly we are fantastic at finding the bad portions of our paintings and much less so the passages that can be quite beautiful.”

The real goal is to see things simply and from there add detail. This structure allows for a deeper understanding of composition, editing, and allowing yourself the freedom to change and rearrange objects within your painting to strengthen your unique voice within the work. I always work from a study sketch as I plan so I can make informed decisions when I do choose to edit.

My thought process is to give the students a well rounded understanding of how I approach as many different subjects as possible which will allow them to try these techniques on their own long after the workshop is over. My goal is simple. I am there to teach. I am not there to blow you away with a few deft brush strokes and leave you wondering what the heck happened. 

I believe creating an environment where the students feel relaxed and comfortable is key to letting them find what they have to say. We all have a unique inner voice. I try to demonstrate the importance of that and how valuable it is in creating artwork that speaks to others. 

Iain Stewart Materials

Antonio Masi, an internationally renowned painter and president recently of the American Watercolor Society, for 8 years, is offering a workshop titled "A Fearless Approach to Watercolor."  This workshop is designed to help artists of all levels enhance their watercolor techniques, with a particular focus on controlling values, recognizing large masses, and understanding the relationship between color and values.

The workshop is structured into two segments:

1. Demonstration Session: In the first half, Antonio Masi will conduct a live demonstration, during which he will discuss his choice of paints, paper, palette, and brushes. He will delve into various watercolor techniques, including brush strokes, glazing, and the use of body color.
   
   
2. Hands-On Painting Session: In the latter half, participants will have the opportunity to apply what they've learned. Antonio will provide personalized, one-on-one guidance to assist each student in discovering and refining their unique artistic voice.

This comprehensive workshop welcomes artists of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, aiming to foster growth and confidence in watercolor painting.

Antonio Masi Supplies