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Because of the current world health situation, many of us have had to rethink the best and safest way to get together for activities we used to take for granted: social events, meetings, and classes, to name a few.

You may be aware that I've begun the development of online watercolor workshops. With a group of 20+ students willing to be my test subjects, I've been hard at work figuring out how to create a user-friendly learning experience via Zoom. The volunteers participate in free Zoom classes during the month of June, while I receive lots of practice and feedback!

Note: The following information is the result of my personal exploration and experience with this subject; I am not claiming to be an expert on all things virtual! I will continue to pursue ways to make the online workshop experience enjoyable and productive for my students.

What Exactly is a Virtual Watercolor Workshop?

In short, students will receive instruction from the comfort of their own home, which is especially helpful for those at high risk of illness while we await a vaccine for COVID-19.

What Preparations Have You Made to Create the Best Experience for Your Online Students?

I have a licensed Zoom account and I've been broadcasting over WiFi in a quiet environment with a fairly new laptop, a new Logitech BRIO webcam and good lighting. According to students, my results have been very good. I also purchased a microphone headset to improve the audio quality. And of course, I have spent many hours learning how to use all of this new equipment and technology!

How Are You Going to Replicate the Individualized Feedback/Tips You Give at Regular Workshops?

I'm exploring the use of Zoom rooms for more intimate interaction, where students can work in pairs or I can work with a student privately (still working on this aspect). As far as me working with you one-on-one, you can hold up your piece to the camera for critique or use screen share. Unfortunately, I won't be able to sit by your side and physically help you (I may not even be able to do that in the in-person workshops anymore) but with the paid online courses, you will have private access to video demonstrations that you can review as many times as you like within the allotted time frame (six months following class), something the in-person workshop participants don't have access to. I'm also looking into follow-up sessions or "office hours" several days later which will be included in the workshop fee.

How Can I as a Student Best Prepare? I'm Worried About the Technological/Visual Challenges.

Direct Internet connection to your desktop or laptop is faster and best if you can manage it. WiFi is not as reliable or as fast... Of course the age of your computer and WiFi router will affect your results. Ideally, you should have a microphone and camera to allow for more personal interaction. The better your equipment and internet speed, the better your experience will be.

For more information on how to be fully prepared to get the most out of an online class, click here.

*NOTE You don't need a headset, but a device with a microphone is important.

My teaching style will not change. I will provide demonstrations throughout the workshop while I explain what I'm doing every step of the way. You will not need to paint while I am demonstrating, as I will provide plenty of painting time for you. With the online format, I will likely divide the all-day (9-3:30) time frame into three or four one- to one-and-a-half hour sessions. That will give you some time to stretch, have a bite to eat, or just continue painting on your own. I will also break up the day with Q&A, zoom rooms, interactive polls and more. Additionally, I'm considering adding a follow-up sessiona and/or "office hours" the week following the workshop to chat about your experience and answer any questions you may have, at no additional charge.

What are the Benefits of Your Online Workshops?

Online workshops provide in-depth learning from the location of your choice, thus minimizing the expense and aggravation of travel. 

In addition, I plan to keep the classes relatively small (8-12 students maximum) to ensure the same quality experience you receive in my in-person workshops. An added benefit is the private access you will have to the demonstration videos as previously mentioned.

How Can I Find out About Your Online Classes/How Do I Register for Your Virtual Watercolor Workshops?

The best way to be the first to know about upcoming classes I am offering is to sign up for my newsletter. You can do it here. I typically send out two or three one-topic newsletters per month in which I discuss all kinds of inspirational and artsy things, including painting techniques, workshops, cats, birds and studio practices, plus upcoming events. (Rest assured I will never share or sell your email address.) You can read past newsletters here.

In lieu of subscribing to my newsletter, you can go to my website and click on the Workshops tab where you will find complete information about each event. To register, you will be directed to the Contact Form on my website. Simply fill in the required information and specify in the Comment section which class you would like to join. I will follow up by sending you an invoice. Shortly before the workshop, registrants will receive a link that will act as your ticket to the entire workshop, no matter how many times you come and go. 

You can also follow me on Facebook and/or Instagram!

Paint. Love. Repeat.