Watercolor Exploration: From Basics to Beautiful Masterpieces
In this class, students will learn watercolor techniques like color blending, brushwork, and textures, building confidence through step-by-step lessons from basic exercises to beautiful artworks.
Veronica Blanco
What's included
8 live meetings
6 in-class hoursProjects
1-2 hours per week. includedCertificate of Completion
1 after class completionClass Experience
Beginner Level
In this class, students will learn essential watercolor techniques, including color blending, brushwork, and texture creation. Topics will cover the basics of color theory, the importance of composition, and various painting styles, allowing students to explore their creativity. The class is structured around engaging, step-by-step lessons that build on each other, ensuring a smooth learning progression. I will teach through a combination of visual demonstrations, interactive discussions, and hands-on practice, creating a dynamic learning environment. My teaching style is supportive and encouraging, focusing on fostering creativity while providing personalized feedback. Students will have ample opportunities to interact with me through live demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and group discussions, along with fun activities and games that reinforce their learning. I’ll also share video clips to illustrate techniques and inspire creativity, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging experience!
Learning Goals
By the end of the class, students will not only have a strong foundation in watercolor painting but also the confidence to create their own beautiful masterpieces!
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Watercolors & Basic Techniques
In this lesson, I will introduce students to the essential materials used in watercolor painting, including brushes, paints, and paper. They will practice two fundamental techniques: wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry. Through activities like creating abstract washes and experimenting with water ratios, students will explore how water impacts the intensity and flow of colors. The class will conclude with a brief discussion of J.M.W. Turner's watercolor, "The Blue Rigi, Sunrise," as an inspiring example. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Exploring Color Mixing
In this lesson, students will learn color theory and mixing colors in watercolor painting. They will create a color wheel, identify primary and secondary colors, and explore warm and cool colors through abstract paintings. They will practice creating tints and shades, painting gradients, and blending colors directly on the paper. The lesson also will include a discussion of Albrecht Dürer’s "Self-Portrait with a Palette," inspiring students to apply their newfound knowledge in future projects. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Brush Strokes & Texture
In this lesson, students will explore various brush techniques and texture creation in watercolor painting. They will learn about different brush types and practice basic strokes like straight lines and dots. They will also experiment with techniques such as dry brushing, sponge application, and salt to create unique textures for a small scene or abstract piece, allowing for creative experimentation. The lesson will also discuss J.M.W. Turner's "The Fighting Temeraire," 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Layering & Blending
In this lesson, students will focus on learning layering and blending techniques in watercolor painting to create depth and dimension. They will understand transparent layers, practice building layers, explore blending techniques, and apply these skills to create a simple landscape or abstract composition. The lesson will also cover the work of Winslow Homer, particularly his painting "Key West, Hauling Anchor" which exemplifies effective layering and blending techniques. 45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
This class is designed to support unique learning needs by offering flexible, step-by-step lessons and allowing students to work at their own pace, with clear visual demonstrations, personalized feedback, and a positive environment.
Pre-Requisites
No prerequisites are required for this class! Learners don’t need to have taken any previous art classes or have any prior painting experience—just a passion for creativity and a willingness to explore watercolor techniques.
Supply List
Watercolor Brushes: a flat brush (25mm), Number 10 or 12 round brush and number 6 brush or rigger Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchers' Pocket Set, 12 Half Pan Graphite drawing pencil, grades F, H, or 2H and a kneaded eraser. A drawing board or piece of plywood (11 x 17 inches) Strathmore 300 Series 140 lb Watercolor Paper Pad 9" x 12" Cold Press Masking tape Glass jug or cup Rag Small spray bottle Optional materials: salt, plastic wrap, palette knives, sponges and more. Note: I recommend these watercolor and paper brands, but any other brand will work just as well.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Veronica Blanco
Joined October, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
My name is Veronica Blanco, and I am originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina. I earned a B.A. in English as a Second Language in my hometown. I have been an educator in Argentina and the USA for over 30 years, teaching a wide range of classes, from elementary English language instruction to middle school ESL programs. Currently, I lead a classroom project called 'Empowering Newcomers with English from Scratch,' helping non-native speakers develop strong language foundations.
In addition to my experience in education, I have always been passionate about art. Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by illustrations, drawings, shapes, and colors. The stories woven into art history and masterpieces created by renowned artists continue to fuel my creativity and inspire my artistic expression.
As an educator, my philosophy centers around fostering curiosity, empathy, and personal growth in my students. I believe in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed, no matter their background. My teaching is driven by the belief that language and art are powerful tools to bridge cultures, build understanding, and unlock potential.
A fun fact about me? When I’m not teaching or working on my art, I love exploring local coffee shops and sketching the scenes around me. I also enjoy experimenting with homemade paints using international pigments, a practice that allows me to bring unique materials and stories into my art. In Spring 2025, I will be double majoring with honors in Art Studio and Art History at Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC—a journey that merges my passion for education and the arts.Reviews
Live Group Course
$18
weekly or $144 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
2-6 learners per class
