|












|

P.O.
Box 828
Bolinas CA 94924 415-868-0105
toll free
800-749-4784
|
|
Classes
are designed for all skill levels.
Workshop Schedule
2013 2014
2015
|
Feb
2-3 Landscapes 2013 Santa Rosa CA
Oakmont Art
Association
Contact Sliva Davis jeffcdavis@sbcglobal.net
|
|
|
|
March
18-22 Big Bold
& Beautiful Flowers CWA California
In
this workshop Birgit guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify a flower and find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" triptychs, but for class purposes you will be using 1/2
sheets for the workshop a more manageable size.You
will start with a new composition everyday for the first few days,
learn how to do large White then Red flowers then expand into more
complicated compositions. The final compositions will be after Birgit
evaluates the class and as time permits. Sketches and reference photos
are provided to help you during the learning process so you can easily
follow along with each painting demonstration. You are welcome to bring
your own reference photos and work from those if you prefer rather then
the sketches provided. Birgit will discuss what makes a striking
painting and suggests that you bring a few of your own photos for the
class to look at and learn from to see how by doing a few simple things
can make the composition more interesting. This class is open to all
skill levels but knowledge of watercolor is helpful but beginners are
welcome and are encouraged not to be afraid. Workshop
Questions? Contact our Registrar, June Hunt jclhunt@aol.com at registrar@californiawatercolor.org
510-525-0965 On line
registration information
|
|
|
|
April
8 -
12 2013
Spring Coastal Blooms - Daffodils, Iris & Rhododendrons
Mendocino CA
Let's
celebrate the end of winter by painting Spring Coastal Blooms, such as
daffodils, Iris on a half sheet of watercolor paper then expanding into
a full sheet or diptych of Rhododendrons. Learn to add shape, create
depth
and drama with smooth washes and lots
of color. Weather and flowers
permitting, students are invited to go to the Botanical Gardens in Fort
Bragg one day before the workshop to learn how to look for compositions
and gather
reference material. We will then return to the studio to
paint. (If you choose not to go to the Gardens you are welcome to paint
in the studio during this time.) Some knowledge of watercolor is
helpful, If you have taken the workshop before you are welcome to bring
your own compositions to also work on. All levels To register
707-937-5818 or 800-653-3328 on line
registration
|
|
|
|
April
21
Master Talk & Demonstration
New Mexico Art
League
Ming Franz
NMWS
1-505-281-4956
|
|
|
|
April
22-24
Dramatic Florals
Workshop New Mexico Art
League Albuquerque NM
In
this workshop Birgit guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify a flower and find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" triptychs, but for class purposes you will be using 1/2
sheets for the workshop a more manageable size. For
the best learning experience sketches and reference photos are provided
to help guide you step-by-step through the learning process, you are
welcome to bring your own reference photos and sketches if you prefer.
Birgit suggests that you bring a few of your own photos to learn how to
compose a better more interesting and dramatic painting. This class is
open to all skill levels but knowledge of watercolor is helpful but
beginners are welcome and are encouraged not to be afraid. Dramatic
Florals workshop (WS114) information
contact Ming Franz
NMWS
1-505-281-4956 mingfranz11@yahoo.com
|
|
|
|
May
6 -
7
Rocks, Sand & Sea
glass
Studio Six Toronto CAN
This
class is fun, fun, fun, in this workshop students are always amazed
with the outcome of their paintings. Birgit guides you step-by-step
through the painting process and shares her techniques of how to
simplify and create realistic sand, rocks, beach glass and other
treasures you find along the shore. With these techniques that you will
learn in this class you will be able add another dimension into your
paintings. You will first start by practicing images so your
comfortable with the technique, then apply them into your final
painting. For class purposes you will be using 1/2 sheets of watercolor
paper, which is a more manageable size during the learning process. The
wonderful thing about this workshop is you can easily make up your own
compositions, use materials that are provided or use your own reference
photos This class is open to all skill levels but knowledge of
watercolor is helpful but beginners are welcome and are encouraged not
to be afraid. All
levels To Register contact Tamar Citak at
Studio Six webmaster@studio-six.com
tel: 905-475-1136 fax: 905-475-1271
May 8-10
Spring Flowers
Studio
Six Toronto
CAN
Let's
celebrate the end of winter by painting Spring Coastal Blooms, such as
daffodils, Iris on a half sheet of watercolor paper then expanding into
a full sheet or diptych of Rhododendrons. Learn to add shape, create
depth
and drama with smooth washes and lots
of color. Weather and flowers
permitting, students are invited to go to the Botanical Gardens in Fort
Bragg one day before the workshop to learn how to look for compositions
and gather
reference material. we will then return to the studio to
paint. (If you choose not to go to the Gardens you are welcome to paint
in the studio during this time.) Some knowledge of watercolor is
helpful, If you have taken the workshop before you are welcome to bring
your own compositions to also work on. All levels To Register contact
Tamar Citak at
Studio Six webmaster@studio-six.com
tel: 905-475-1136 fax: 905-475-1271
|
|
|
|
May
27-31 2013
Big Bold & Beautiful Flowers Cheap
Joes Boone, NC
Wait list
In
this workshop Birgit guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify a flower and find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" dyptichs and triptychs, but for class purposes you will
be using 1/2
sheet to full sheet. You
will start with a new composition everyday for the first few days,
then expand into more
complicated or larger composition. For
the best learning experience sketches and reference photos are provided
to help guide you step-by-step through the learning process, you are
welcome to bring your own reference photos and sketches if you prefer.
Birgit suggests that you bring a few of your own photos to learn how to
compose a better more interesting and dramatic painting. This class is open to all
skill levels but knowledge of watercolor is helpful but beginners are
welcome and are encouraged not to be afraid To sign up, or to get more
information about the Workshop: Call Edwina at 800-227-2788
email: edwina@cheapjoes.com
|
|
|
|
June
10-14 2013
Big Bold & Beautiful
Flowers
Cloudcroft NM
Find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings and techniques of how to
simplify a flower as Birgit guides you step-by-step through her
painting process. Learn how to blend and mix color to give the illusion
of depth by using a limited palette. The techniques learned in this
class are the same ones she uses for her larger 60” x 120” triptychs,
but for class purposes you will be using more manageable ½
sheets. You will start with a new composition every day for the first
few days, learn how to do large white, then red flowers, progressing
into more complicated compositions. Sketches and reference photos are
provided. This class is open to all skill levels but knowledge of
watercolor is helpful. Beginners are welcome and are encouraged to be
fearless. Registration
form or call Linda Shiplett at 575-687-2453 or cell
915-490-5071 Jan
Rasch janrasch@tularosa.net Information
|
|
|
|
July
6 2013
Rocks, Sand & Sea Glass
Pt Reyes National Seashore CA
This class is fun, fun, fun! In this
workshop students are always
amazed with the outcome of their paintings. Birgit guides you
step-by-step through the painting process and shares her techniques of
how to simplify and create realistic rocks, sand and beach glass and
other treasures you find along the many beaches at Point Reyes. With
the techniques learned in this class you’ll be able add another
dimension into your paintings. You will first start by painting diverse
images so you’re comfortable with the different used techniques, and
then apply those techniques into your final painting. For class
purposes you will be using 1/2 sheet¬s of watercolor paper, which
is a more manageable size during the learning process. The wonderful
thing about this workshop is the ability to easily make up your own
compositions, use materials that are provided or use your own reference
photos. Beginners are welcome and are encouraged not to be afraid, but
knowledge of watercolor is helpful. All levels welcome. Contact Jen
Spangler, 415-663-1200 x 373, fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org

|
|
|
|
July
15 -
19 2013
Big Bold &
Beautiful
Flowers
Mount Desert
Island, Maine
Acadia Workshop
Center
In
this workshop Birgit guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify a flower and find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" triptychs, but for class purposes you will be using 1/2
sheets for the workshop a more manageable size. You
will start with a new composition everyday for the first few days,
then expand into more
complicated or larger composition. Sketches
and reference photos are provided. For
the best learning experience Birgit
suggests that you follow along step-by-step until you are familiar and
comfortable with the techniques but you are also welcome to work with
your own reference material.
Birgit suggests that you bring a few of your own photos to learn how to
compose a better more interesting and dramatic painting. Class size is limited to 15
students Contact Gail Ribas
207-460-411 bassharbor@gmail.com
or
on line
information and registration |
|
|
|
Aug
5 -
9 2013
Rocks, Sand, Sea glass and
Kelp
Mendocino CA
This
class is fun, fun, fun, in this workshop students are always amazed
with the outcome of their paintings. Birgit guides you step-by-step
through the painting process and shares her techniques of how to
simplify and create realistic sand, rocks, beach glass and other
treasures you find along the shore. With these techniques that you will
learn in this class you will be able add another dimension into your
paintings. You will first start by practicing images so your
comfortable with the technique, then apply them into your final
painting. For class purposes you will be using 1/2 sheets of watercolor
paper, which is a more manageable size during the learning process. The
wonderful thing about this workshop is you can easily make up your own
compositions, use materials that are provided or use your own reference
photos This class is open to all skill levels but knowledge of
watercolor is helpful but beginners are welcome and are encouraged not
to be afraid. All levels To register
call 707-937-5818 or 800-653-3328

Mendocino Art
Center Workshop
Discount
Become a MAC member and save 10% off
each class registration
and 15% if you are a MAC member residing in Mendocino County. The
member discounts are in addition to the 5% Early Bird Discount. MAC has
Extended their Early Bird Discount on Summer Classes Save 5% on All
July and August Classes!
Mendocino Art
Center Lodging
Discounts - for MAC students:
$ 80 -
$ 100. "On
Site at the Art Center"
$79 a
night at the Hill
House
Private
housing list (call the Registrar @ 707 9375818x10)
More
discounts
Map
|
|
|
|
Aug 17 2013
Atmospheric
Landscapes
Point Reyes National Seashore
CA
We will be using large washes to create
the emotion of the beautiful
sky over Point Reyes National Seashore using a limited pallet. Create
colorful sunsets and the mysterious fog and mist swirling through the
coastal wetlands and mountain ridges along with other atmospheric
scenes. Learn how to incorporate minimal landscapes to evoke intrigue
and bring the viewer into your painting allowing them to experience a
Zen like feeling. Learn how to use so-called mistakes to your advantage
to create illusion. After this workshop, and working with the
techniques learned you will start to view nature as a vast painting.
All levels welcome. Information Contact
Jen Spangler, 415-663-1200 x 373, fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org
|
|
|
|
Aug
26 -
30 2013
Desert
Blooms
Bend OR
Art in the Mountains
What
gives a painting the WOW factor and creates an intimate and dramatic composition? In
Birgit’s workshop you
will learn how to
paint
a statement by simplifying complex desert blossoms to create stunningly beautiful paintings with values in shadows and choice backgrounds. Learn
to
make color move and mingle to create luminous petals that seem to lift right off of the surface, giving the illusion of depth. Birgit O'Connor is the author of Watercolor in Motion and Watercolor Essentials. She is a contributing editor to The Artist’s Magazine and Watercolor Artist.
This class is open to all skill
levels beginners are
welcome. To register contact Tracy Culbertson at Art In The
Mountains material
list 503.930.4572
info@artinthemountains.com
Information
Registration
information
|
|
|
|
Sept
4-11th 2013
Big Bold & Beautiful Flowers
Iowa Watercolor Society
In
this workshop Birgit guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify a flower and find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" triptychs, but for class purposes you will be using 1/2
sheets for the workshop a more manageable size. You
will start with a new composition everyday for the first few days,
then expand into more
complicated or larger composition. Sketches
and reference photos are provided. For
the best learning experience Birgit suggests that you follow
along step-by-step until you are familiar and comfortable with the
techniques but you are also welcome to work with your own reference
material.
Birgit suggests that you bring a few of your own photos to learn how to
compose a better more interesting and dramatic painting. To register
contact Jan Globuschutz, President, jglobuschutz@msn.com C/O
IWS 2505 SW 36th St., Ankeny, IA. 50023 |
|
|
|
Sept
23 -24
Step one - Big Bold &
Beautiful Flowers Prince George, BC
In
this workshop Birgit guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify. Sketches
and reference photos are provided. To register contact Sharron
MacBride,
250-564-4271 stargaz@telus.net
Sept 25
-28
Big Bold &
Beautiful Flowers Prince George, BC
Find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" triptychs, but for class purposes you will be using 1/2
sheets for the workshop a more manageable size. Sketches
and reference photos are provided. For
the best learning experience Birgit suggests that you follow
along step-by-step until you are familiar and comfortable with the
techniques but you are also welcome to work with your own reference
material.
Birgit suggests that you bring a few of your own photos to learn how to
compose a better more interesting and dramatic painting. To register contact Sharron
MacBride,
250-564-4271 stargaz@telus.net |
|
|
|
Oct
4-6 2013
Historic Barns & Ranches
Point Reyes National Seashore CA
Point Reyes
National Seashore is home to some of the most preserved historic barns
and ranches idyllically located on the California coast. Pierce Point
Ranch is one of the oldest ranches on the Point Reyes Peninsula and was
one of the most successful dairy ranches of its time. Join Birgit
O'Conner in exploring this ranch and other historic structures in a
full weekend of watercolor instruction. There will be an optional
Friday, October 4 (4pm ¿" Sunset) exploration of Pierce Point
Ranch with Birgit to gather reference photos and sketches in the fading
afternoon light for paintings during the weekend. This is not a Plein
air class, but one that teaches you to simplify and translate the
essence of landscapes and historic structures through photos and
sketches. Have fun, be free, explore and express yourself by letting go
of the frustration of trying to control and create every blade of
grass. You'll learn about paper, brushes, how much water to use, moving
color, layering, and shape shadows. All levels welcome. Information
Contact Jen
Spangler, 415-663-1200 x 373, fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org

|
|
|
|
October
18-20 Big Bold
&
Beautiful Flowers SBAA Santa Barbara CA
Birgit
guides you step-by-step through the painting
process and shares her techniques of how to simplify a flower and find
the WOW factor that creates dramatic paintings. Learn how blend and mix
color to give the illusion of depth by using a limited pallet. The
techniques learned in this class are the same ones she uses for her
larger 60"x120" triptychs, but for class purposes you will be using 1/2
sheets for the workshop a more manageable size. For
the best learning experience Birgit suggests that you follow
along step-by-step until you are familiar with her
techniques
Sketches
and reference photos are provided, you are welcome to work with your
own reference
material. Bring some of your own photos and to learn how to
compose a better more interesting and dramatic painting.
Jacqui Bravo 805-564-7019
jacquibrav@aol.com |
|
|
|
November
4-8 Fall Colors in Grape Vines
and Landscapes Napa Valley, CA
November 4-5 Monday & Tuesday
we will focus up close and personal with the fall colors in the leaves
and grape vines.
November 6-8 Wednesday - Friday use
some of the techniques we have learned and apply them
into landscapes painting fall colors and using atmospheric techniques. All levels contact Birgit O'Connor
Information & Registration

|

2014 Schedule
Workshop titles to be announced
March 31 - April
4 Bonita
Springs FL
To register
contact Jake Hand Education Director Center for the Arts of Bonita
Springs Phone:
239.495.8989 Fax: 239.495.3999
June 16
-20
Glouchester, MA
NAW
Northeast Art Workshop Retreats LLC
Attention:
Kat Masella 18b Dale
Avenue Gloucester, MA
01930 978-729-4970 Fax: 978-283-9237
Email: info@northeastartworkshops.com
July 16 -
20
New
Foundland, CAN
Velma
Boudreau dalton.velma1@gmail.com
July 28 -Aug 1
Bend OR
contact Tracy Culbertson at Art In The
Mountains material
list 503.930.4572
info@artinthemountains.com
October 2-4 SCWS -
Southern Colorado watercolor So Pueblo CO
Jan Steers
Southern Colorado Watercolor Society 2nd Vice President Jan
Steers steersart@bresnan.net
November
2-7 Myrtle
Beach Springmaid, SC
HEATHER C.
ORR, WATERMEDIA DIRECTOR www.springmaidwatermedia.com(P) 843-315-7150
(C) 843-995-2500 (E) <mailto:orr@springmaidbeach.com>
orr@springmaidbeach.com
2015
September
11 - 13 Santa Clara Watercolor SO, CA
Jane Kwant
janekwant@gmail.com call 408 246 2416
What
students Say
To view More workshop photos visit
me on Facebook
at Birgit O'Connor Watercolors
Hi Birgit, Thanks for
sending those great pictures. I can't wait to take them to my painting
group and show them all what a wonderful time I had. I
am renewed and inspired and I learned a lot. You are a terrific teacher
and we will definitely meet again if I have anything to do with
it. Luanne Stone AR ...PS. I thought you might like
to know specifically what I learned. I am not going to buy cheap paint
or paper anymore. I learned to use more paint and more water to get the
richer colors. I will never have a crappy looking wash again. I really
learned that I can paint with the best of them and to just go
for it!!!!!! Thank you so much.. it makes me cry! Luanne
Birgit,
thanks for the best workshop experience I've had in my 4 years
of learning to paint. You are a phenomenal teacher. Your charismatic
style of instruction made me feel like I was painting with a good
friend. It was fun & comfortable. You made it safe to step out of
my comfort zone. I love that you truly shared your style and gave us a
tool box of skills. It's a joy to be in the presence of a confident
artist & woman, who knows although she may share her talent that
she remains unique. Again, it's the best workshop that I've
experienced. Painters should know that "if you can, you MUST EXPERIENCE
A BIRGIT WORKSHOP!" Debra
Jan Hall, Houston
Dear Birgit,
I had been to a couple of workshops before and felt
very intimidated and uncomfortable, and didn't learn anything. I
regretted spending the money, but not with you!! I learned so much from
you because you were so real, so kind, and so encouraging. Now I'm
going through all my flower photos and composing arrangements in my
head. I can't wait to paint another flower, and I'm not afraid to paint
BIG anymore! Thank you for coming to Lake Charles! Beth
Winslett Fontenot, Louisiana
Oh, Birgit,
Kudos to you for bringing your vision to so many people. Noelle
Nichols
Hello Birgit! What a great time I had during your work shop! So
much to learn..so
little time; however it is fun all the time. You are a great teacher
and your technique opens up another aspect for me! Thank you. Jan
Ammons, NB TX
Dear Birgit, I would like to share with you one thought - I had bought
a wonderful book of daily meditations. One of my favorite quotes that
they use in the book is by Charles Beard and he says, "When it is
dark enough, you can see the stars". I want you to know that your
workshop and your amazingly inspiring talent has been a very bright
star that has helped to brighten this "dark period" of my life. Thank
you.....Davilla
2011 workshop photos available on
 |
New
book with DVD "Watercolor
Essentials" by
Birgit O'Connor
Released March 2009
Hardcover
spiral bound book with 60 minute dvd included. If
you
enjoyed my other book I think you will really like this one
too. Watercolor Essentials is broad range book covers
which techniques for Exploring, Painting
and Having Fun. Learn all sorts of new and different ideas, how to
create shapes, shadows, water, waves, easy trees, sand, shore, rocks,
marbling, masking, painting lace then applying these techniques to
simple step-by-step paintings of landscapes, reflections, a boat on the
shore, still life and dramatic florals. Now Available
Chosen as one of Jen's North Light
Picks North Light Books.
Learn more about Watercolor
Essentials
View You Tube mini
Clip
Signed
copy
$ 26.
|
|
|
 |
Current
2008 Book Watercolor in Motion
by Birgit O'Connor
Released March 2008 from North light Books
If you have a
special person or comment you would like please enter it
in the
comment box on the order form View You Tube mini Clip
Signed
copy $ 26.
|
 
|
|
|