Date: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Times: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Cost: $120 supplies included
Workshop Description
Hi everyone!
Take watercolor beyond the traditional! In this playful, experimental workshop, we’ll explore watercolor as a contemporary abstract medium by layering, mark-making, resist techniques, texture, and a little bit of happy accident.
You’ll experiment with watercolor pan or tube paints while discovering what happens when paint meets crayons, oil pastels, watercolor pencils, salt, tissue paper, stencils, stamps, plastic wrap, bubble wrap, wax paper, rubbing alcohol, sandpaper, string, sponges, toothbrushes, and more. We’ll also explore techniques using masking fluid, white gouache, spray bottles, straws, credit cards, Q-tips, and even a heat gun or hair dryer.
Rather than focusing on creating a finished “picture,” we’ll build layers, make marks, create texture, play with color, and learn how to embrace the unexpected. You’ll leave with a collection of experimental watercolor studies and ideas that can become finished abstract paintings or inspire your future work.
No watercolor experience is necessary — just bring your curiosity and willingness to experiment!
What To Bring
Watercolor paints — pan or tube
Watercolor palette
Watercolor brushes
Watercolor paper
The additional experimental materials will be provided.
Artist BIo
Colleen Gianatiempo is a fine artist known for her abstract compositions in mixed media characterized by bold colors, textures, and patterns. Her artwork has been featured in numerous solo, group and public exhibitions such as Hearts of San Francisco. Colleen holds an MFA from the Academy of Art University and sells and markets her work worldwide. She shares her expertise through teaching in-person, virtually and as a Professor of Art. Colleen contributes to the art community as a board member of the Southern Utah Art Guild and as a member of Women Out West, and the Global Art Project.