OSU Extension to offer online watercolor course for beginners

Oklahoma State University Extension is offering an online watercolor course designed for beginners and those new to the medium.

The three-week course, Landscape Watercolor for Relaxation, is co-hosted by the OSU Design and Education Center and will use a project-based teaching approach. Weekly pre-recorded lessons will be released throughout April, allowing participants to learn at their own pace.

The class is taught by Qing Luo, OSU Extension specialist and associate professor in the OSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. Luo said the course is structured to introduce foundational watercolor techniques while encouraging creativity and relaxation.

“People often feel art is intimidating, but learning from the comfort of home will help them unlock their artistic expression,” Luo said. “There is no prior art experience required, and participants can utilize their own space and work at their own pace each week.”

Participants will explore step-by-step watercolor techniques, as well as interpretive and abstract landscape painting. Each week, they will complete one watercolor piece. Luo will also share ideas for turning finished artwork into framed pieces, bookmarks or greeting cards.

“The course is designed to help participants experience the calming, restorative benefits of painting while building foundational watercolor skills,” she said.

Luo recommends participants plan to spend about two to four hours per week studying and practicing.

In addition to the recorded lessons, Luo will host a weekly live office hour session via Zoom to answer questions and provide guidance.

The course fee is $135 and includes a professional watercolor set, paintbrushes, watercolor paper, pencils, artist tape and instructional materials. Materials will be shipped at no charge to participants in Oklahoma. Those outside the state will be charged a $20 shipping fee.

The registration deadline is March 26. Participants will need access to a printer to print handouts and premade sketches each week. Registration and additional information are available online. Questions about registration logistics can be directed to Luo at [email protected].

Luo previously taught the course on campus and said offering it online this spring will make it accessible to more people.

PHOTO: Set of watercolor paints, paintbrush, glass of water and paper sheets of watercolor paintings. (Adobe Stock │ #416175834 – chamillew)