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Watercolor Journey: Plein Air Workshop


  • Minnesota Marine Art Museum 800 Riverview Drive Winona, Minnesota 55987 United States (map)

Led by David R. Smith, AWS, NWS

September 29 - September 30 [9am - 4pm each day]

Host Studio: Mississippi Mornings Art Studio

Tuition: $400.00 [maximum 16 particpants]

about the workshop

Join David R. Smith on a Watercolor Journey outdoors, learning the most valuable watercolor concepts and techniques.  This workshop will save you countless hours of trial & error by demonstrating an effective approach to painting outdoors that will open new doors of discovery and creativity.  David will discuss outdoor equipment options, considerations when choosing a composition, value study options to help prepare for the painting process, and provide numerous demonstrations.  Regardless of your level of experience, you’ll leave with the concepts and confidence to take your paintings to a higher level.  David will demonstrate a wide variety of techniques, including  how to link shapes in a composition based on values, while also learning about edge quality of shapes, the importance of different consistencies of paint, and the different moisture qualities of paper – concepts and approaches that will keep you inspired and eager to explore your new watercolor capabilities long into the future. 

Upon registering, students will receive a complete supply list to bring with them and location details.  This workshop is limited to sixteen students, so register early.


About the artist

David R. Smith

David R. Smith began his artistic journey studying Chinese Brush Painting in the United States and China.  A decade later, he was introduced to Western style watercolor painting and was amazed at how enjoyable and forgiving it was compared to working on rice paper.  Ever since, he has been hooked on watercolor painting, and has become a popular artist and instructor nationally and internationally, as well as a sought-after juror.  David is the recipient of the Skyledge Award (the highest recognition awarded by the Transparent Watercolor Society of America), an award winner and signature member of the American Watercolor Society, signature member of the National Watercolor Society, and his work has earned him numerous “Best of Show” awards for both his studio and plein air work, signature memberships, showings in galleries and museums across the United States and abroad, and inclusion in publications including Fine Art Connoisseur, International Artist, and multiple editions of SPLASHThe Best of Watercolor.  With over 25 years of experience as a public school teacher, he is skilled at breaking down complex concepts and skills into easily learned chunks and now enjoys helping workshop participants find success with watercolor.  As much as he loves to paint, he has found sharing his watercolor passion through instruction even more gratifying and he is most rewarded when he hears a frequent comment: “This is one of the best workshops I’ve ever taken.”


Presented by:

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.


AmericInn by Wyndham Winona is a Preferred Hospitality Partner for Plein Air Experience. Mention the Best Available Rate when booking and receive 12% off nightly rates. 


This event is part of the Plein Air Experience 2023:


UPCOMING MMAM WORKSHOPS: