F3D Watercolor for Beginners
Art, Music & Theater | Registration opens 5/26/2026 9:00 AM
Watercolor is a transparent medium and requires a different approach from opaque media such as oil, tempera, or acrylic. The watercolor class is meant for beginners but can be helpful to artists of different levels of experience. In each class we will discuss watercolor technique and how to mix colors. We will explore examples of different approaches and will begin with a short introduction to technique. We will primarily paint still lifes, and if possible go outdoors to paint landscapes.
You will need to purchase materials. The Rhinebeck Artist’s Shop has agreed to offer class members a discount. Course participants can expect to spend a minimum of $50 on supplies. Materials Needed
The class is four sessions of three hours each.
- Image provided by the Presenter
Materials Needed:
You will need the following materials in order to participate in this class:
Pencils: 2B, 4B, 6B and eraser, pencil sharpener (razor or mechanical)
Watercolor block or pad. Suggested Canson Cold Press 140lb
If you use a pad be sure to have a board to support your pad and artist’s tape that is easy to remove without harming the paper.
Watercolor set: KOI Watercolor set.
3 brushes soft synthetic bristles: called “nice little brushes”.
Wide mouth jar for water.
Bottle of water.
These materials are available at discounted prices at the Rhinebeck Artist's Shop in Rhinebeck. Be sure to tell Doug that you are taking a class with Dean Vallas to receive the discount. (Of course you can purchase your materials at your favorite supplier.)
Dean Vallas
Presenter
Dean Vallas has worked in a variety of media, including oil, watercolor, and drawing. He has taught painting and drawing in New York City and has exhibited his work in galleries, museums, and private collections. He develops his work through daily observation of his surroundings, including landscapes, still lifes, and figures. He also creates narrative works to document his reactions to a changing environment. Having studied at the National Academy of Art, where he received a Certificate in Painting, and at the Art Students League in New York City, his instructors have included Furman Finck, Ronald Sherr, and Mary Beth McKenzie.
Mary McClellan
Producer, Class Manager