Watercolor painting of an adult and child hunched over a pail on the beach, with a pier in the background — Tara Sweeney, Filling a Bucket, 2023.

Vitality Arts: The Magic of Watercolor Figures

Discover the magic of painting people with transparent watercolor. This energizing series of eight classes with teaching artist Tara Sweeney draws inspiration from Mia’s exhibition “Women Impressionists and the Land.” You’ll complete a value study and full-color painting to analyze light and shadow, and practice simplifying shapes and values. We’ll explore a layered approach to transparent watercolor, with split-primary, limited-color mixing.

Through in-class exercises and step-by-step demonstrations, you’ll learn to paint watercolor figures with striking values, glowing color, and lively brushwork. Visits to the exhibition, paired with the instructor’s paint-along demonstrations and feedback, will help you strengthen skills and improve confidence, while enjoying the company of fellow artists. All levels of experience are welcome.

Tuesdays (eight weeks), 1:30–4 p.m.
April 13–June 1, 2027
Studio 112
All materials provided
Anyone 55+ welcome to register

We offer a limited number of scholarships and a sliding scale of ticket prices to accommodate all learners.

Pay what you can: $350 | $300 | $250
Please email us for scholarship information.

Registration opens March 13, 2027.

_{Tara Sweeney, Filling a Bucket, 2023.}