Adult Studio: Plein Air Watercolor + Gouache

Have you ever wanted to paint en plein air? Join us for a two-day workshop where we'll explore light and color on location using watercolor and gouache. Inspired by American Impressionism, this class will guide participants through creating an expressive and vibrant landscape painting, emphasizing emotion and light over technique. If you've ever been intimidated by painting, this class will help you tap into greater creative freedom and boldness. We'll start on location at the North Carolina Arboretum on day 1, and finish in the Studio on day 2. NC Arboretum entry will be required; carpool options will be arranged to reduce cost. All skill levels are welcome. The instruction will be tailored to your experience level and willingness to challenge yourself. All materials will be provided.

Yekaterina Benson is an Asheville-based landscape painter, hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains and capturing their beauty. Her paintings are emotionscapes: visual depictions of what we experience in places that make us feel awe, joy, aliveness, inspiration, or peace. Her work explores the full range between expressive and realistic, and strives to capture colors that may not be visible, but are felt. Yekaterina's art celebrates the unique landscapes of Western North Carolina and highlights treasured local spots such as waterfalls, overlooks, trails, and mountain peaks.