A Workshop by Jon Rader Jarvis
[Plein Air Painting!  'the visual arts answer to air guitar']

Each class member will participate in the discussion of simple steps to improve watercolor painting, from paint handling and paper selection, to finish. A sketchbook, map set and handout packet will be provided with extensive information.

Each day will begin with a short lecture and demonstration. We will break for an early lunch and meet at noon at our painting site for the day. Each day we will meet at one of the most beautiful locations around or near the city of Seattle.

The objective of this workshop is to "provide a supportive atmosphere, raise consciousness about watercolor painting and to improve and expand our natural abilities." Sound watercolor practice will be explained and recommended and the more illusive elements of "personal expression" will be a paramount concern. There will be daily group critiques and the instructor's work will be shown as well. On both Monday and Tuesday mornings, Mr. Jarvis will conduct a seminar titled: "Historical and current practice in watercolor". Many different techniques will be demonstrated and students will paint with instructor guidance. If desired, there will be one-on-one time with the instructor concerning work done previously.

Instructor: Jon Rader Jarvis

Contact: Jon Rader Jarvis
P.O. Box 9001
Vashon, Washington 98070

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP WEEK SCHEDULE (to be arranged)

This Watercolor Workshop is like no other! You will have the unique opportunity to focus completely on your art while we take care of the details. Beautiful, comfortable sites are chosen so you can relax and concentrate on developing and strengthening your artistic skills. Our workshops are arranged to maximize time for instruction and on-location plein air painting. A workshop best suited to independent artists who want to indulge their creativity. Frequent group discussions, chats with guests, and sharing of work, provide a rewarding dimension to this intensive workshop.

Sketchbook-journals are another beneficial aspect of our workshops. In addition to painting on scheduled excursions, sketchbook notes are encouraged and additional comments and anecdotes will serve as a starting point. Filling the sketchbook with notes and images has been a favorite activity for many workshop members.

Beginners and professionals alike will find our workshops enlightening. Professional artist/teacher Jon Rader Jarvis leads the sessions to deal with issues specific to watercolor painting: line, value, pigment character and paint manipulation, as well as concepts about color and composition. Jon supports the development of personal expression, and is supportive to those at all skill levels.

A workshop day begins with a lecture and demonstration, either at the school or on location, setting the tone for the day's work. The workshop is flexible enough to change with the weather conditions. We gather at the end of the day, or the next morning to discuss and share the work. Typical improvement over the span of this single workshop is phenomenal!

This workshop is designed for those who can comfortably paint in the open air. Participants must be able to independently explore the landscape and manage their own materials. Let us know if you are not confident that you can participate physically.

Experience the richness of the Puget Sound region
Vashon Island - adorned with lakes and surrounded by mountains
scheduled for the month of August

The Emerald City of Seattle sits like a gem on Puget Sound, surrounded by water, islands and mountains in a setting of legendary natural beauty. This historic urban landscape provides inspiration for many artists and outdoor enthusiasts. Here, humans co-exist with deer, eagles, Orca whales and towering firs and cedars. Our home base is Vashon Island one of the pretttiest locations in Seattle. The landscape and surrounding venues have long been the subject matter for many artists’ paintings. Just step out the door to find beautiful subject matter for your work.

As subject matter, there are beaches, water-scapes, bays, bridges all unimaginable in number, variety and beauty. We have planned an exciting itinerary of visits to sample the natural wonders of this beautiful island during our workshop. We'll take advantage of the Washington State Ferry system for travel to an island art colony on the Island.

We will visit and paint from what are rated as some of the most beautiful vistas in Washington State.