2165 - Watercolor Painting and Drawing En Plein Air (Painting Outdoors)
Course Overview
Join us to paint the southwestern landscape en plein air (painting outdoors). We will explore painting and drawing fundamentals in graphite and watercolor at various sites in the Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande bosque. Topics include composition, color theory, technique, and style. You will become familiar and confident with watercolor and find joy while painting outside. All skill levels encouraged to attend!
What You'll Learn
- Explore painting and drawing fundamentals in watercolor
- Learn about color mixing, composition, technique and style
- Find joy in painting outside at various sites in the Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande Bosque!
Who Should Attend
All skill levels encouraged to attend!
If you are interested in learning to paint the southwestern landscape en plein air, join this class!Additional Information
Watercolor Materials List
You get what you pay for! I’ve noted professional quality brands in parentheses.
- 10x14” 100% cotton watercolor paper block, cold press (Arches, Fabriano, Strathmore)
- Portable tray of watercolors (Windsor and Newton, Daniel Smith, Sennelier, Old Holland, Da Vinci, local watercolor makers in Santa Fe: L'Ecole Des Beaux Arts)
- Round watercolor brushes, size 10, 8, and 4
- Mottler brush size 1, or other flat brush
- 2 small jars for water - ones with lids make for easy transport
- Paper towels - shop towels preferred
- 1” painters tape
- Sketchbook and pencil (at least 8x10” and a mechanical pencil)
- A pocket color wheel
Supplies for painting outside:
- Something to sit on while painting (comfort is key!)
- Something to paint on - a plein air easel, pochade box, painting board, etc.
- Sun and desert protection (sun hat, sun screen, long sleeves, pants, closed toed shoes)
- Drinking water and a snack.
Links to materials for online purchase:
- Watercolor Paper
- Watercolor Set - I work from a 12 color set. I would say less is more!
- Introductory level, but still good quality - Winsor and Newton Cotman Watercolors.
- Daniel Smith is great quality, but more expensive
- Round watercolor brushes, size 10, 8, size 4, and mottler
- My preferred brushes are the Princeton Brand, Velvetouch series
- Sketchbook
- Color wheel
Please note that a minimal entrance fee of $1 - $2 per car will be required at some of the En Plein Air locations.
UNM Tuition Remission
UNM Staff, Faculty, and Retirees: This class is eligible for UNM Tuition Remission under Personal Enrichment. Click here to see UNM HR's Tuition Remission policy for eligibility and tax liabilities.