2026 Workshops • Watercolor

Each workshop participant will receive a SEASON PASS to the Laguna Art-A-Fair for each workshop they attend. Tickets can be picked up at the ticket seller’s booth anytime after you purchase a workshop. All workshops are 4.5 hours per session, from 10:15 am to 2:45 pm. Open to individuals 16 and older, unless otherwise specified (12-15 permitted with parent/guardian participation.) All materials are provided (except as noted). Workshop fees are non-refundable. Parking Information.

An introduction to watercolors for the adventurous beginner.  We will use wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques combined with simple brushwork to explore the roles of light, color and subtle motion.  Create scenes that are both peaceful and evocative of a fishing trawler working at sea.  During downtime (waiting for paint to dry), you’ll learn about other techniques and considerations in getting the most out of watercolor as an expressive medium.

I don’t paint with the goal of creating something that looks like the real thing.  I view that as the realm of photography, not painting.  I have great respect for those who can create this kind of painting, but it’s not for me.  I’ve begun to settle on a style that lives somewhere between realism and impressionism.  Much of art has a history--a background story--that can be important in fully appreciating it.  Like many painters, I get my ideas and inspiration from three sources:  Photographs, things that I’ve seen in person, and ideas that are in my head.

Limit: 6 Participants per workshop
Skill levels: Beginner to Advanced

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Fishing Boat

with David M. Gardner

• Thur 7/9

• Thur 7/23

• Thur 8/6

• Thur 8/20

In this workshop, students will explore watercolor painting through the observation of fresh flowers. Participants will choose flowers placed in front of them and create a watercolor painting inspired by their shapes, colors, and natural movement. The focus will be on learning how to mix colors, experiment with brushwork, and capture the essence and character of the flowers rather than aiming for perfect detail. This relaxed and creative approach allows students to enjoy the process of watercolor while developing confidence in their painting. 

Limit: 6 Participants
Skill levels: Beginner and Up

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Watercolor Blooms

with Ian Espinoza

• Fri 8/7

• Fri 8/28

Unlock a fresh, exciting way to paint—no traditional brushwork required. In this workshop, you’ll use palette knives and cards to apply paint, then let water and pigment flow freely to create stunning, organic landscapes with depth and movement. As forms begin to appear, you’ll bring your piece to life by adding details with brush or pen, guided by your own imagination.

This process is both freeing and addictive—perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. You’ll leave with a finished, one-of-a-kind artwork and a technique you’ll want to use again and again.

Geri is a Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society and  Watercolor West. She has exhibited at the Art-A-Fair for 25 years and has taught workshops in France, Yosemite and So California.

Limit: 6 Participants
Skill levels: Beginner and Up

Note: 18 yrs and older

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No Brush Water Colors

with Geri Medway

• Tues 6/30

• Tues 7/14

• Tues 7/28

• Tues 8/11

• Tues 8/25

Unlock the magic of watercolor as you learn to control water, pigment, and movement to create fresh, expressive floral paintings. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll master the balance between brush moisture and paper, giving you the confidence to achieve soft blends, glowing washes, and dynamic color transitions.

We’ll revisit essential techniques—smooth gradients, fluid washes, and “charging in” for rich, layered color—while showing you how to let watercolor do what it does best: flow beautifully. A guided floral design will be provided, or you’re welcome to work from your own inspiration.

Perfect for beginners looking for a strong foundation and experienced artists ready to loosen up and elevate their watercolor style.

Geri is a Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society and Watercolor West. She has exhibited at the Art-A-Fair for 25 years and has taught workshops in France, Yosemite and So California.

Limit: 6 Participants
Skill levels: Beginner and Up

Note: 18 yrs and older

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Florals

with Geri Medway

• Tues 7/7

• Tues 7/21

• Tues 8/4

• Tues 8/18

Learn the basic watercolor techniques that give you many ideas for creating your own painting with a unique composition. Create the night scene of the city on a rainy day.  Learn how to paint the reflection with watercolor washes and to draw people with simple brush strokes.

Limit: 6 Participants
Skill levels: Beginner and Up

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Night City

with Natalia Eremeyeva Duarte

• Sun 7/19

• Sun 7/26

• Fri 7/31

• Fri 8/14

• Fri 8/21

Create a collection of stunning handmade embellished watercolor greeting cards—perfect for any occasion or to keep for yourself! In this relaxing workshop, you'll learn simple watercolor techniques and the art of applying embellished accents to create cards that look professionally crafted. Whether it's holiday ornaments, flowers, seasonal themes, or abstract designs, you'll discover how easy and enjoyable it is to make cards that recipients will treasure. No art experience required—just a love of beautiful things and the desire to create something personal and meaningful.

Limit: 8 Participants
Skill levels: Beginner and Up

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Handmade Watercolor Greeting Cards

with Kim Brandon

• Mon 7/6

• Sun 8/1

• Sun 8/9

• Sun 8/23

• Sun 8/30