Experimental Watercolour

In this one day workshop, you’ll explore a variety of techniques to push the boundaries of contemporary and abstract watercolour. 

You’ll learn:

• The critical skills of mastering the flow of water and pigment.
• How to use masking fluid and tape, salt, collage and plants during the application process.
• How to combine water spray and spattered work with luminous wet-on-wet blended washes. 

The first part of the workshop will be devoted to demonstrations, learning and experimenting then you’ll have time to apply your new skills to creating abstract and semi-abstract pieces in the afternoon.  Sean will be on hand to provide feedback and further guidance as you work.

Techniques learned during the workshop can be used in your own mixed media practice and with inks instead of watercolour.  You’ll be able to use your new watercolour skills in your nature artwork, creative journalling or to hand colour the final stages of your printmaking with textures and contemporary colour blends.

MATERIALS LIST

PAINTSThe bare essentials are four student or artist-quality watercolour tubes of your colour choice. Two dark colours and two light. If you can buy a small watercolour tin case with at least 6 to 12 empty half pans that is the most economical way to build your watercolour set. Otherwise, Cotman's student grade in the pans is fine. The best quality watercolours are Daniel Smith, Schminke and Windsor & Newton in my experience. 
PAPER300 gsm paper is the best quality. Fabriano, Arches and Saunders are standards but Baohong from Vietnam is as good in many cases and much more affordable. Large sheets are the cheapest way to buy paper. The cut to A4 or A3 size. Some A4 or A3 pads are fine also. You will need at least 20 x A4 size pages.
If you want to save money on the paper you could buy half of it as 200 gsm for the morning session, but do have 300 gsm for your final pieces.

BRUSHES
No 10 mop brush (Mont Marte is fine)No 8 chiselNo 6 round sable
MISC

Eye dropper Small water spray bottle, Sponge, natural if possible, paper towels, water containers, masking fluid bottle, masking tape

NOTE if you don't have some of these items there will be extras available to share on the day.

TIMING:

9.30 am to 2.30pm with half hour lunch break and morning and afternoon tea breaks. For those who wish to continue after the class there is time for an extra hour up to 3.30. Feedback will be provided then too if requested..