Garrison Art Center

Foundational Structure Across Painting Media

Of the many color choices available, how and why do watercolorists choose specific colors? How do painters understand color use without knowing pigment properties? How can students overcome common painting pitfalls when techniques are not clearly taught?

This course addresses the structural foundations that underpin watercolor painting: value, color relationships, and the behavior of light. Students learn to distinguish pigment characteristics, understand value hierarchies, and recognize how color temperature and transparency affect form and atmosphere. These principles apply across painting media, but are examined here through the particular demands of watercolor.

Instruction is systematic and cumulative, guiding students step by step through concepts that are often learned only through years of trial and error. Special emphasis is placed on values, light, color qualities, technique, and composition, while respecting the gradual development of each artist’s personal direction.

This course is designed for students who are serious about painting and wish to establish a strong, professional foundation. Students who believe they already know the basics but sense gaps in their understanding will find those gaps addressed clearly and thoroughly. Materials are not included; here is a suggested supply list.

This class is scheduled to be in our print studio, which is only accessible by stairs. 

Our class/workshop cancellation policy can be found here.

We believe art should be accessible to all. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.