workshops

Watercolor | Abstract  Flora
Anderson Ranch Art Center | Snowmass Village, Colorado
July 22 – 26, 2024

Flora. Abstract, graphic florals interpreted in watercolor. Observe flowers with a new perspective. Capture not only what you see, but also how you react, as you interpret the forms, lines, shapes, and colors with watercolor. Demonstrations, one-on-one instruction, and sharing what you have painted will provide the foundation for your exploration. A one day plein air painting experience at Isa Catto’s Studio in Woody Creek is included in this course. This is a Level 2 workshop with watercolor experience required, this is not a beginner’s class. Supplies are not included. The workshop is limited to ten students. Registration on the Anderson Ranch website. This workshop  is full with a wait list.

Watercolor | Abstract Leaves
Anderson Ranch Art Center | Snowmass Village, Colorado
September 9 – 13, 2024

This workshop invites the artist to find the balance between spontaneity and control. We will explore the evolution of abstract form from the observed reality of a singular leaf, or a group of leaves. Each student will complete a series of work that explores one central subject. This course will focus on the line, color, structure, and form of leaves. Various experimental techniques and tools that can be utilized to create a finished painting will be demonstrated. Activities include presentations of visual images, discussions of abstract painting, and student-instructor consultations.  This is a Level 2 workshop with watercolor experience required, this is not a beginner’s class. Supplies are not included. The workshop is limited to 15 students. Register on the Anderson Ranch Website. 

Abstractions in Watercolor
Oklahoma Arts Institute – Quartz Mountain
October 3 – 6, 2024

Capture what you observe as you interpret nature with fluid contemporary watercolor. Learn to simplify and abstract subject matter with minimal marks, and a broad spectrum of techniques to create bold and captivating works on paper. Develop color palettes and imagery to stretch your preconceived ideas of these elements and their initial meaning. This workshop guides artists through how inspiration translates observations into abstract, graphic, and bold watercolors. Students learn how to economize their mark-making and focus on elements such as line, color mixing, pattern, and composition with watercolor, observing details in nature with a new perspective. The program is unique in that all Oklahoma public school teachers attend on full scholarship. Registration on the Oklahoma Arts Institute website opens on August 1.

Oaxaca City, Mexico
Mexican Culinary Traditions
Watercolor & The Oaxacan Table
November 8 – 14, 2024

Registration is now open at Mexican Culinary Traditions. A  culinary and art-filled trip to Oaxaca City with Iliana de la Vega, James Beard award winning chef  (Best Chef: Texas 2022), Isabel Torreabla, food journalist and anthropologist, and Jan Heaton, professional abstract watercolor artist. Oaxaca, an inspirational, and delicious food and art destination. The market, the agave fields, the colors, a cooking class, delicious meals, shopping, and painting every day . . . the absolute perfect retreat. The painting element of this tour is tailored for all levels of painting experience. Beginners are welcome! Jan believes all students are individuals with their own story, and library of inspiration. Her teaching methods are formed by her belief that everyone learns and makes art in their own way. For more information please email info@mexicanculinarytraditions.com