Saturday January 23rd from 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Saturday January 30th from 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
From Photo to Portrait: Gouache & Watercolor for Everyone
Discover the joy of painting portraits without the pressure of drawing! In this two-session workshop, students will explore the expressive possibilities of watercolor and gouache while learning how to create a portrait from a favorite photograph.
Using a simple contact paper transfer technique, we will transfer a photograph onto watercolor paper, allowing us to focus on what really matters: color, value, brushwork, and personal expression. Students will experiment with both transparent watercolor and opaque gouache, learning how these two versatile mediums can work together to create beautiful, expressive portraits.
No drawing experience necessary! This class is designed to build confidence, encourage experimentation, and help everyone create a portrait they are excited to take home.
LEVEL
Beginning
SUPPLIES FOR STUDENTS TO BRING
1. Paints
Gouache (Designer NOT Acrylic)
- At least the three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue.
- White gouache (titanium white preferred).
Watercolor
- At least the three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue.
Yarka watercolor sets are a great value and an excellent way to get started.
2. Brushes
A good round watercolor brush
- One size 8 or size 10 round brush.
- Princeton watercolor brushes are my personal favorite.
A versatile round brush will handle most of the painting in this class but feel free to bring others you have.
3. Paper
Watercolor paper
- 140 lb or 300 lb watercolor paper only. You will need one good piece for your finished portrait and some for practice.
- Arches and Strathmore are my preferred brands.
Please do not bring 90 lb paper. Heavier paper handles water and layering much better for this project.
4. Additional Supplies
- A white or gray palette for mixing paint.
- Pencil and eraser
- Two water containers (one for rinsing brushes and one for clean water).
- A few tissues and a rag for managing moisture and lifting paint.
- A spray bottle for keeping paints moist.
- Artist masking tape, preferably white or tan to match the paper.
- Watercolor masking fluid (helpful, but not mandatory).
5. Your Portrait Reference
Please bring two color printouts of your subject.
- Two identical 8.5 x 11-inch color printouts of the photograph you want to paint.
- Choose a clear photograph with good lighting and visible facial features.
- The face in the photograph should be at least the size of your fist on the printed page.
We will use one printout for transferring the image and the other as our painting reference.
Printing tip: Denver Public Library cardholders can print up to 100 free color pages per day, making it an easy and affordable option for preparing your reference images.
The goal is to spend less time worrying about drawing and more time discovering what paint can do. Come ready to experiment, play with color, and make a portrait that is uniquely yours! the level of skill (beginner, intermediate, advanced), the benefits, the experience, and what makes your class unique
SUPPLIES INSTRUCTOR WILL PROVIDE
- Extra gouache colors, brushes, palettes and scrap paper,
- carbon paper
- hair dryers
- India Ink
- Examples
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Bonnie Stolzmann is a distinguished fine artist and illustrator based in Denver, renowned for her dynamic and engaging approach to both art and education. With a passion for inspiring creators of all ages, she has taught art classes that empower students to unlock their full potential through hands-on exploration of new materials and techniques.
Her exceptional scientific illustrations have been published in collaboration with **The Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, The University of California, Harvard University, and The Jepson Herbarium. Additionally, Bonnie’s artwork has been showcased internationally, earning prestigious awards and recognition.
A firm believer in fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment, Bonnie creates a classroom atmosphere where students feel encouraged to take creative risks, experiment freely, and grow as artists. Whether in the studio or the classroom, her dedication to both artistic excellence and education makes her an inspiring mentor.
QUESTIONS
Please direct questions to Bonnie@AlleyGodsArts.com or BonnieStolzmann@gmail.com, (719) 339-9544,
* NOTE: These classes are at Park Hill United Methodist Church, 5209 Montview Blvd Denver
