Beginning Watercolor Syllabus

Instructor Name  Dr. Michael Faris

Name of Class  Watercolor class

Meeting Times  6 Classes, Wednesdays 10:00-12:00

Age Requirements  16+

Supplies Needed For This Class/Workshop

MANDATORY TOOLS AND MATERIALS: (students should acquire these materials prior to the first class meeting)

1. Watercolor paints in tubes (1/2 ounce size is fine. At least red, blue, and yellow)

2. Pad of watercolor paper (at least 11” x 15”)

3. Watercolor brushes (at least one good #6 brush)

4. A white plastic palette with cupped areas

5. A water container (flat bowls are really good for this)

6. Paper towels

7. An HB pencil or an orange colored pencil

8. Eraser

9. A drawing board or piece of flat Masonite

10. A roll of blue tape

11. Subject matter references

Class Summary

This studio class is designed for students interested in learning about watercolor painting. Demonstrations and critiques will be used to explain techniques and composition. Each session will include a painting assignment to be completed in class.

Curriculum:     

Class 1 – Sept 4:  How to use watercolor paints and paint the chair

A. Materials and equipment introduction and discussion

B. Explain procedures

C. Demonstrate various methods for using watercolor paints

D. Practice painting shapes

E. Make neutrals page

F. Assignment: paint a chair (supplied by the instructor)

Class2 – Sept 11: Day of the Dead Mask

A. Review procedures

B. Explain assignment

C. Students draw and paint masks in class.

D. Assignment: Work on painting another reference.

Class 3 – Sept 18:  The Hosta

A. Review procedures

B. Explain assignment

C. Students draw and paint a plant in class.

D. Assignment: Work on painting another reference.

Class 4 – Sept 25:  Apples

A. Review procedures

B. Explain assignment

C. Students draw and paint a bowl of apples in class.

D. Assignment: Work on painting another reference.

Class 5 – Oct 2:  The Stairs

A. Review procedures

B. Explain assignment

C. Students draw and paint an outdoor stairs scene in class.

D. Assignment: Work on painting another reference.

Class 6 – Oct 9:  Finish up or student choice

A. Review methods.

B. Complete work on paintings.