Nicholas Simmons Workshop Description  

A class syllabus is a difficult thing to do in my case - I don't have a set routine, but lead the class and follow the vibe of what they need/like...at the same time. Basically, though, it goes like this: 

Monday - discuss and demonstrate watercolor problems, mistakes, and interesting techniques.
Tuesday - start a painting using some of the new techniques demonstrated on Monday - possibly a "batik" watercolor piece
Wednesday - first half of the day an intense PhotoShop demonstration with my digital projector and laptop.  Second half of the day, finish painting started yesterday.
Thursday - new painting, different technique - possibly poured painting
Friday - new painting, different technique - possibly gesso/watercolor technique. 

Everybody will paint everyday. Everybody receives individual attention and regular class critique sessions. Lots of other stuff in between that's hard to explain on paper! There is not enough time to get into complex paintings, and the cross section of abilities in workshops necessitates introducing techniques and concepts that all levels can get into quickly and benefit from. People seem to love the PhotoShop demo, and that actually is pretty complex as I build the concept for a large painting from scratch using reference photos. There is no time for them to do this in class, but many people use some of the ideas later, and the ones who aren't into computers simply enjoy seeing and understanding the process. Some drawing will be necessary, but nothing time-consuming. I think people will end up using subject matter I suggest, and they certainly don't need to bring computers.  Reference photos and the like are optional and up to each student. 

Supply List

Overall, I’m not that concerned with materials and don’t believe they are as important as concepts and composition/design elements. This list comprises most of what I use, but is in no way mandatory.

Artist quality watercolors and/or fluid acrylic paint (I use DaVinci for both)
Colors I use a lot (I also use other assorted shades):
 

Phthalo Blue  Ultramarine Blue  Cerulean Blue  Prussian Blue  Dioxazine Purple  Payne’s Grey  Quinacridone Red

Alizarin Crimson Hue  Quinacridone Burnt Orange  Quinacridone/Nickel Azo Gold  Gamboge  Cadmium Yellow Med.  Hansa Yellow Light  Phthalo green

Hooker’s Green  Green Gold  Sepia  Raw Umber  Raw Sienna  Titanium White