Teaching Philosophy
Much of my teaching philosophy is based on what students have taught me:
That the creative process is an intuitive and very personal process to be encouraged and also carefully respected and protected.
That creating Art takes you to a whole different realm where age is not important.
That, in fact, Art often becomes a bridge between generations.
That every piece of Art has value, even our 'reject' Art, which we have learnt from, since this is an important step without which we cannot evolve as artists.
That good artwork almost always reflects who we really are.
Watercolor Classes at the ArtsCenter in Carrboro
Intermediate Watercolor Magic: Portraits in Watercolor
six sessions
Thursdays, 11:00am - 2:00pm
October 22nd - December 3rd, 2026
No class on Nov 26.
This class will focus on painting portraits in watercolor. The aim is to demistify the process, dispell the fear and to build up your confidence. We will first draw/paint separate facial features - the eye, ear, nose and mouth - and learn how to mix skin tones, hair tones etc. This class is not about photo realism but more about an impressionistic approach and how to achieve a likeness which lies in the relationship between the facial features. Weekly instructional and inspirational handouts, demos and feedback on work done are an integral part of this course.
Students are required to have some basic drawing skills as well as familiarity with tonal values and color mixing.
Students can bring in a photo of a subject of their portrait after learning basics have been addressed.
Beginning Watercolor Magic
six sessions
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 - 9:30pm
October 20th - November 24th, 2026
This watercolor course is broken down into simple steps especially for beginning students. We'll explore and experiment while learning how to mix beautiful colors with a limited palette from primary colors to secondary and neutral colors with simple and fun exercises. Students will learn about values, brushstrokes, washes, composition, contrast, focal points and more and will walk away with some frameable art. Weekly demos and feedback on students' work will help gain confidence and inspiration. Watercolor is a fine line between making and letting it happen! Weekly instructional and inspirational handouts are an integral part of this course.
PAINTINGS OF STUDENT’S SHOES CREATED IN AN INTERMEDIATE CLASS
