In this fun and fast-paced workshop, Donna presents a number of concepts based on the premise that the key to creative realistic painting is design. Topics include: seeing subject matter abstractly, simplifying and personalizing shapes, building creative compositions, structuring with value patterns, combining structure with improvisation, developing a personal style and personal visual language, and more. Donna will discuss her innovative approach of thinking outside the watercolor box, which was featured in her International Artist magazine article, Adding Body to Watercolor. Working with your own subject matter, there will be plenty of time to consult, reflect, and evaluate as you consider new creative possibilities for your art.

In this unique workshop, based on her The Artist’s Magazine article, Go Wild, Donna shares strategies for developing inventive and personal color ideas for your paintings. Topics include: a survey of 8 painting styles and the color ideas connected to them that can be used in your work, taking the mystery out of color theory by identifying some of the “missing links”, training your eye for color through an understanding of color relationships and organized color combinations, and using color to express yourself rather than describe subjects. This class goes beyond the usual color mixing techniques to address the more important issue of how to put colors together creatively in a painting. With a trained eye for color you’ll be able to break through old habits of seeing and thinking and discover imaginative ideas for your work that will not only take your paintings, but your whole life, “up a notch”!

In this workshop, the emphasis is on finding methods and ideas for turning ordinary subjects into creative and imaginative paintings. Expanding possibilities for spontaneity through design and personal expression will be our focus. Workshop topics include: composition strategies, improvisational painting, developing a personal visual language, and exploring watercolor’s full potential as a transparent and opaque medium. This workshop will invigorate you with equal parts inspiration, information, and direction. All levels are welcome.