Instructor: Martha Mabe

Location: The Blue Goose Art Supply Store

Course Description:
Develop your watercolor skills in this structured 3-week course, designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in watercolor painting. Each week builds sequentially, guiding students through essential techniques including brush control, water control, hard and soft edges, transparent layering, and composition. Students will receive a detailed instructional packet, including Martha’s curated favorite material recommendations and pre-prepared artwork transfers to jumpstart practice and ensure successful painting outcomes.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course, students will:

• Master brush control for precision and expressive strokes

• Learn water control to achieve desired transparency and wash effects

• Explore hard and soft edges to create depth and texture

• Apply transparent layering techniques to build luminous, layered color

• Develop strong compositional skills for balanced and engaging paintings

• Complete a small portfolio of watercolor paintings, using guided transfers and original compositions

• Practice self-evaluation and critique through weekly workshops submitted from home

• Cultivate observation, experimentation, and a personal painting style

Course Structure:

• Week 1 – Foundations: Brush techniques, water control, and color mixing; explanations of materials and how to use them effectively.

• Week 2 – Simple Floral and Landscapes: Applying foundational skills to create delicate flowers and landscape studies; guided exploration of layering and edges.

• Week 3 – Composition and Personal Expression: Painting without preliminary sketches; integrating all techniques into original compositions; students bring home works-in-progress for weekly critique and discussion.

Materials:
Students should bring their own basic supplies; a full material list is provided by BLUE GOOSE ART SUPPLIES. Martha will also provide recommended supplies for purchase or trial during class. The instructional packet includes step-by-step guides, practice exercises, and artwork transfers to build confidence and support skill development.

Teaching Approach:
Martha Mabe’s instruction emphasizes observation, deliberate practice, and creative exploration, offering personalized guidance to help each student progress at their own pace. The class is designed to foster confidence, skill, and a joyful, focused approach to watercolor painting.