06/29 Watercolor Plein Air at Stanford

Through guided instruction, we will choose 2 locations for subject options ranging from iconic architecture nestled in the manicured campus to more open parklike landscapes. We will discuss ways to simplify what we see, suggest a “story” and how to complete paintings in a limited amount of time.

Description

The quickness of watercolor painting allows one to paint plein air with little set up time, using safe, clean materials, and the fluidity of the water medium is perfect for capturing subjects while depicting natural light and atmosphere in an outdoor setting.

Join Architect John Spotorno for a relaxing Sunday at the world-famous Stanford University Campus. Through guided instruction, we will choose 2 locations for subject options ranging from iconic architecture nestled in the manicured campus to more open parklike landscapes. We will discuss ways to simplify what we see, suggest a “story” and how to complete paintings in a limited amount of time. Wrapping up the afternoon, we will share our accomplishments, discuss the successes, and think about what we can continue to work on. All experience levels welcome.

About the Instructor

Instructor John Spotorno is a 4th generation Californian and a bay area native. He discovered his passion for drawing and watercolor painting while attending Cal Poly University School of Architecture and Environmental Design. A recipient of a national design award allowed John nine months of European travel honing his skills in plein air sketching. John is a licensed Architect currently practicing commercial architecture in Palo Alto. John joined the Pacific Art League in 2021 and has had his paintings on display there and at University Art in Redwood City. He recently finished leading a summer watercolor camp for 4th – 8th graders and during the fall, winter, and spring beginner's introduction to watercolor courses. He continues to develop his painting skills while studying with local artists Steve Curl and Robert Dvorak.

Supply List

- Paper: 9x12 or 12x16 pad or block 140lb min cold press or rough watercolor paper.
- Brushes: Larger #10 or #12 round, smaller #6 or rigger. ¾ or 1” Flat.
- An inexpensive Chinese calligraphy brush is a good option.
- Paints: Tube or pan set colors of choice with a minimum of primary red, blue, and yellow.
- Please use paint colors you are comfortable with. John’s pallet includes lemon yellow, cadmium yellow, yellow ochre, burnt sienna, burnt umber, cadmium red, alizarin crimson, hookers green, sap Green, phthalo green, phthalo blue, cerulean blue, cobalt blue, ultramarine blue, Payne’s gray, neutral tint, titanium white.
- Mixing pallet, water container and water bottle.
- #2 pencil, kneaded eraser, optional sketch pad / paper

Other Equipment, Supplies
- Lightweight folding chair or stool. Optional: Easel or tripod with clip board attachment, small potable folding table.
- Comfortable layered clothing, hat, and sunscreen. Lunch, snacks and drinks as desired.
- Without convenient public parking, come prepared to be able to carry all your supplies in an efficient way as we will be moving from one location to the next.

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