Join us for an immersive watercolor workshop where you'll learn to create
expressive and dynamic landscapes using a three-wash technique incorporating
opaque washes. This hands-on session will guide you through essential elements of
composition, color palette setup, and preliminary sketching, helping you build a
strong foundation for your paintings.
Through a step-by-step demonstration during the two-hour demo session, and
guided practice during the six-hour workshop, we'll explore various texture
techniques to add depth and movement to your work. This includes wet-into-wet, dry
brushing, and scumbling. You'll also experiment with thumbnail sketches and
preliminary drawings to refine your composition before applying washes. The demo and workshop are available for purchase separately. Students are not required to attend both the demo and workshop sessions, but are highly encouraged.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist looking to expand your skills, this
workshop will provide valuable techniques and insights to elevate your watercolor
landscapes.
Materials
Doug recommends students use the following materials for the workshop. Materials will not be provided by ALNB or the instructor.
Paint
For watercolor paint brands, I recommend Holbein, Daniel Smith, or Windsor Newton. For the sake of this demo, we will be using the limited color palette below:
Cobalt Blue
Cadmium Yellow Medium
Light Red or Burnt Sienna
Paper
The most important aspect of this technique is using a rough or cold pressed watercolor paper. Arches, Saunders Waterford, or Windsor Newton works, as long as it has a rough texture or is cold pressed.
Brushes
Mop brush: size 14 or 18 (for washes and skies)
Squirrel mop brush: size 0 or 2 (for trees and texture)
Synthetic watercolor brush: sizes 8, 10, and 12
Additional Supplies
A pencil, sketchbook, atomizer (small spray bottle), and water cup will be needed for the planning and execution of the painting. For mounting your watercolor paper, bring masking tape and a watercolor block. Corrugated plastic or a hard board is a fine substitute for a watercolor block.
About the Instructor
Doug Fortin is a New England-based artist whose evocative watercolor landscapes
celebrate the natural beauty of the world around us. A graduate of the University of
Hartford Art School in 2006, Doug spent his early career in San Francisco,
immersing himself in the vibrant art scene and honing his craft as a professional
artist.
A decade ago, Doug returned to his New England roots, where he discovered a
deep connection between his two passions: painting and the great outdoors.
Specializing in plein air watercolor landscapes, his work captures the fleeting light,
shifting seasons, and timeless charm of the region. By painting directly from nature,
Doug brings an immediacy and vitality to his work that reflects his love for the
environment and his appreciation of the watercolor medium.
Doug's art invites viewers to pause, reflect, and connect with the serene yet powerful
beauty of the natural world.
See more of Doug’s work on his website or below.
