Workshop reviews

“Paul's workshops are the most information-packed experiences an artist can engage in. Every painter receives full interactive attention from this dynamic duo! The sound, decisive instruction enables the painter to attain a greater understanding of the mechanics and confidence of their ability to apply the principles in all areas of art. By far the best bang for the buck in learning from a master! And his classes are so darned much fun!”

- Sandra B.

“Thanks for the great workshop!!!! We really appreciate all the time and energy you invested in sharing what you know of watercolor. Demo after demo. Telling, telling, telling. Watch that brush work! (But so hard to do, as I kept looking at the painting instead!) And, Marla, you were this calm presence in the midst of all this energy! Thanks for the centering!

"Personally, I came away with a greater understanding of how and why to build up layers of color and the richness that can be achieved by this method. You explained the value of 'POW!!!', the value of neutrals, and the value of all those value levels. Now, if I can just remember it all!”

-Aneita G.

“I am so impressed with the excellent way you conducted the workshop.  I can't begin to make you understand how much I enjoyed  those three days.  Life had been pressing pretty hard on me and having three days to do something so satisfying without thought of the outside world was a gift.  
Paul, the spacing of the demos and the individual help was so well planned and effective.  Your non-threatening approach and the support materials make it a complete experience.  Marla, your sense of organization and attention to detail are critical to the success of what you are doing together.  Thank you for a lovely time and I couldn't be more proud of you." 

-Nelle E.

“A terrific three days! Relaxed atmosphere, yet hard work that seemed to delight everyone. Amazing demos that had me mesmerized as Paul pulled and pushed color in ways I have never seen. He and Marla make everyone feel like they are old friends gathering to have fun!”

-Victoria L.

The three day weekend in review...
Just three short days ago I thought I had this watercolour painting thing all sorted out.... BUT... out of the volcanic smoke of Bali a Mississippi whirlwind blows into town and in its wake I'm left at square one with a twenty year mission to master the technique according to the apostle Paul.
Paul (That's not a Noife ) Jackson showed us in his casual, careful, thought provoking workshop what can/should be achieved with watercolour.
His essential lessons, from a lifetime of constant painting, are :-
never ever let the bastards grind you down, learn to control your water; use the best materials, brushes, paints, water and paper; practice to be patient and methodical; a meticulous, experienced, planned approach can lead to a largely (almost) predictable, successful outcome.
But that's not all folks, you need a fighting spirit and a willingness to push the envelope - dare to be daring.
If life throws you a curve ball hit the thing over centre field for a homer.(Homer)
Thanks Paul Jackson for a thought provoking, entertaining and challenging weekend.

                                                                             - Australia/Gerhard R.

                                                             

 

L.

Background image: Obsession, original watercolor by Paul Jackson.

Let's Paint!

Paint with Paul and he'll help you reach the next level of artistic confidence and ability as he guides you through a painting, illustrating the principles of design, color, value, composition and the mechanics of watercolor.

Through informal lectures, discussions, demonstrations and critiques you refine your personal painting style. Come prepared to be entertained, make new artist friends and find logical and creative answers to your watercolor problems.

Paul will demonstrate the versatility of watercolor paint. You will learn how to work in thin layers of washes to build up luminous colors. Paul will lead you step-by-step with demonstrations of the painting process. Emphasis will be on what makes a good painting, planning the entire picture area, the importance of thinking through the composition, good division of shapes, value planning, what to communicate about the subject, and how to correct mistakes.

If watercolor is your passion, then this highly energized painting workshop is for you! Paul's stress-free, positive approach toward the act of painting will inspire you to loosen up and have fun again. Expect an intense, concentrated and lively workshop where you will elevate your understanding of watercolor. Beginners are always welcome!

Paul is the author of Painting Spectacular Light Effects in Watercolor and The Wandering Watercolorist.

2023 Workshop Schedule

January 16-18
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara Valley Watercolor Society
Dramatic Light & Luminosity in Watercolor

February 3-5
Online workshop via Zoom
Painting the Luminosity & Transparency of Glass in Watercolor
Registration Details

February 18-25
Boca de Tomatlan, Mexico
Casa de los Artistas
Luminosity on the Playa
Registration Details

May 4-7
Online Workshop Via Zoom
Painting Music in Watercolor
Registration Details

May 19-20
Littleton, CO
Heritage Arts Guild
Dramatic Light & Luminosity in Watercolor

June 27-29
Birmingham, MI
Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center
Dramatic Light & Luminosity in Watercolor

August 4-6
Online Workshop via Zoom
Dramatic Light & Luminosity in Watercolor
Registration Details

October 6-10
Landgrove, Vermont
Landgrove Inn Art Workshops
Masterclass in Watercolor

October 27-29
Online workshop via Zoom
Painting the Night in Watercolor
Registration Details

11 Comments

  1. Brandi Deroche on February 13, 2017 at 11:02 am

    May I just say WOW! What an amazing experience! I’m fairly new to watercolor, or any painting medium for that matter, so I was a bit unsure of attending this workshop as a newbie. Gratefully, my nervousness was soon put at ease. Paul and Marla provide a great stress-free atmosphere which promotes the absorption of the flood of information presented in the workshop. Paul teaches in the same manner that he paints, with many layers and hidden gems that apply to all levels of artists. Furthermore, all of the participants were very positive, encouraging, and uplifting. I am renewed, refreshed, and excited to paint! As a side note, I have also joined the Paul Jackson’s Watercolor Workshop Anonymous Club, as I am now addicted to his workshops!

    Reply
  2. Iris Roberts on February 6, 2017 at 10:05 am

    I had hardly lifted a brush prior to my first and only workshop with Paul and Marla, and voila, during this experience, absolutely everyone was encouraging and helpful–a perfect place for all levels of achievement. I hope to attend another since that experience was not only instructive but personally enriching!

    Reply
  3. Mary Muscato on October 29, 2016 at 4:54 pm

    I’ve taken several workshops with Paul, & travelled to France and Italy with Paul and Marla. I’ve learned a tremendous amount about painting, color, composition, supplies, and loved every minute of it. It’s not that common for someone that extraordinary to be just as nice and helpful as well as being such a superb teacher and friend. The people on the trips and workshops are terrific to be with too. Sign me up for as many as I can fit in!!

    Reply
  4. silke sietas on December 15, 2015 at 2:28 pm

    Der Mister Jackson, is there a Chance to See you in good old germany sometime???? Your Work in watercolour is so Incredible . I already learn so much with your wonderful Book.

    Reply
  5. Marilyn Fuerstenberg on October 24, 2015 at 5:36 pm

    Painting the Night in Watercolor Workshop in Whitewater, WI. I was the coordinator of this workshop with Paul. What a wonderful man. He is willing to openly share his knowledge of watercolor. Hope to have him back in the future. Marla and Paul were easy to work with while arranging this workshop. I only heard positive comments from participants. Thanks Paul and Marla.

    Reply
  6. Ann Johnson on October 18, 2015 at 9:46 pm

    Hi Paul:

    Long time no see. I don’t get to Missouri hardly ever and I guess you may not know I retired from Yellowstone at the end of 2008. I am now in Kalispell, northwestern Montana. You should talk to the Yellowstone Institute about doing a class in Yellowstone. I would be smashing. Ann.

    Reply
  7. Vicki Burnett on January 25, 2015 at 7:03 pm

    Hi Paul! Thanks for the fantastic workshop in Starkville! I thoroughly enjoyed meeting you, Marla and Yoki! Please come back and do it again! I hope to come to Huntsville. Safe travels and happy painting!

    Reply
  8. Rosemary Lee on July 7, 2014 at 10:14 am

    Thanks for a fun and fantastic workshop in Birmingham, MI. It was by far the best painting workshop I have ever experienced. Your instructions made sense to a beginner like me and I’m eager to apply them to my own work. I hope to join you again in the future, please come back to Michigan.

    Miss Rosemary

    Reply
  9. Carole Ranney on February 2, 2012 at 9:05 am

    In searching Travel Workshops I found the sketching trip to Italy on Paul’s website. If it is still open I would like more information. 1. How large or small is the group? 2.Will there
    be a recommended supply list available?. Is the workshop full, and or is there a waiting list?. I was not able to make Paul’s workshop schedule in Newton, Kansas several years ago due to my husband’s failing health. If everything works out, we might finally be able to meet in Italy. Looking forward to your response. C.

    Reply
    • Carole Ranney on October 11, 2012 at 10:29 pm

      I just got back from Italy with Paul Jackson and 14 new friends. We traveled across Italy soaking up the culture and filling our sketch books with memories at every opportunity. Paul has a way of teaching that makes learning fun and easy. It takes a special person to persuade a group of people to meet at the crack of dawn with cameras and sketchbooks , ready to welcome the sun and be happy about the early hour. I look forward to seeing the results of this trip in Paul’s future paintings. They are sure to be spectacular. Thanks Paul for a great experience.

      Reply
      • Joe miller on December 15, 2017 at 7:14 pm

        Would like to talk w ith you about a workshop at cheapjoes.

        Reply

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