Painting Figures in Watercolour

11.30-5pm  | 16+ yrs

Learn to paint figures in watercolour in a free and fresh way. From drawing out to mixing and applying colour, you will be guided through the processes necessary to depict figures in watercolour paint.

What will the day cover and how will it be taught?

In this workshop you will learn the basic principles of painting people in watercolour; including the drawing out, mixing of skin tones, painting clothing, application of paint, and composition. Through demonstration, you will have the chance to learn from the artist’s personal approach, as well as seek inspiration from other artist references. Working from a still image, you will be guided to create your own final piece of work.

What do I need to bring with me?

Drawing boards and easels will be available to use.

All painting materials need to be provided by the students.

Please bring:-

1. Set of Watercolour paints (preferably from a named brand like Cotman or W&N)
2. Some Watercolour paper (NOT or Rough surface is recommended)
3. Watercolour brushes – at least one round brush No.8, 10 or 12 in size (other brushes optional)
4. Water pots.
5. Kitchen roll.
6. Palette or plate for mixing colours on.
7. Images of figure that you want to paint (digital or photos). You can do some advance preparation by lightly drawing out any images that you want to paint, although this is not necessary.

NB – if purchasing art materials at Youdells access a 10% discount by saying that you are attending an Art Class at the Brewery.

When using art materials your clothes could potentially get dirty so you may wish to bring an apron and/or dress for mess.

Important Information

This course will be held in Studio 3.

Are there any additional costs?

No

About the tutor

Catherine MacDiarmid has 29 years’ of experience teaching a range of art classes and applying her knowledge as a practising artist to her role as a Tutor.  She exhibits widely, including exhibiting in the BP Portrait in 2001/2, New Light Art Tour 2021/22 and 2023/24 (of outstanding Northern-based Artists) and regularly at the Mall Galleries.  Catherine has won many awards for her art, most recently being the Watercolour Materials Award in the Jacksons Painting Prize 2023.  She is an elected member of The Lakes Artists Society, the Contemporary British Portrait Painters and appeared in Sky Portrait Artists of the Year 2014, 2018 reaching the semi-finals in 2019.  As well as completing private portrait commissions her work is collected internationally and she works from her home-studio in Kendal.

See all Creative Learning courses here.