Gualala Arts Workshop
Going Beyond the Traditional Approach in Watercolor Painting
Instructor: Frederick C. Graff

Monday - Thursday
October 8 - 11, 2007
9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Register by:	August 23, 2007
Tuition:	$385 members; $420 non-members
early bird special:	$350 - register by July 8, 2007
	(members only - Join now!)
# Students:	minimum 12; maximum 21
Age:	adult with intermediate to advanced watercolor level

Graff's diversified approach to watercolor painting in addition to his thirty-five years of teaching experience enables him to further develop and enhance each student's personal style of painting. His professional background and knowledge of watercolor painting provides an added dimension to his teaching methods.

Using the basic approaches to watercolor painting as a springboard, students will explore different, innovative watercolor approaches and concepts. A series of exercises, lectures, and demonstrations will enable each student to fully understand how to develop a painting.

"When an artist understands the basic principles and elements of design, the subject matter becomes unlimited. It is essential that the students go beyond the level of just recording facts. It is my intent to convey to the students how to spontaneously respond to the subject matter in an unrestricted, yet semi-controlled manner." - Frederick Graff

The different watercolor concepts introduced will enlighten both the traditional and contemporary watercolor artists. The "On Location" workshop is intended to be a relaxing yet informative workshop experience. Students will paint on location at selected sites that offer an abundance of outstanding subject matter. Graff's work may be seen in Marilyn Hughey Phillis' book Watermedia Techniques for Releasing the Creative Spirit, Mark E. Mehaffey's book Creative Watercolor Workshop, International Artist Magazine, February / March 2002 issue and the website artgally.com/fredgraff.

Monday, October 8, 7:00 p.m. Fred Graff lecture Evolving Creatively as an Artist in the Gualala Arts auditorium. Open to the general public.

Thank you to the Gualala Country Inn for sponsoring this workshop.

About Fred's Workshops

Each workshop is an extremely informative and creative experience. Fred's diversified approach and professional knowledge of watercolor painting adds a unique dimension to his teaching methods. A series of exercises, lectures, and demonstrations will enable each individual to fully understand how to develop a painting that reinforces the principles and elements of design. Each workshop is designed to meet the specific needs of the participants. Careful consideration will be given to each group's area of interest, level of ability and general knowledge of watercolor. It is Fred's intention to broaden and develop each student's own personal style and direction.

The "On Location" workshops are intended to be a relaxing yet informative workshop experience. Students will paint on location at selected sites that offer an abundance of outstanding subject matter. Participants will meet each day at 9:00 a.m. for a short briefing and instructions. The morning hours are primarily used by the students to pursue their painting assignments. Group discussions and lunch will take place from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Afternoon instruction and group critiques will conclude at 3:00 p.m. Following class, students may elect to continue their own painting endeavors independently or watch Fred undertake a watercolor painting of his own. Rain sites have been secured in the event of inclement weather.

The "Indoor" workshops incorporate a variety of lessons that introduce students to different topics and subject matter. Students will explore traditional, conceptual, and innovative watercolor approaches that will further develop and enhance their own personal style of painting. Workshop content varies according to the number of instructional days, painting locations, and concentrated areas of study. Teaching methods consist of demonstrations, lectures, critiques, and individual assistance.

Enrollment is limited to ensure quality one-on-one instruction. Students are required to supply their own materials. Following registration, students will be sent a list of suggested supplies. Students will be responsible for securing their own room and board. A list of motels will be forwarded to interested students upon request.

Meet your Instructor

Frederick C. Graff is one of the foremost watercolor instructors of today. His continuous growth and development in his pursuit of watercolor has enabled him to be a leading artist and educator in the field of watercolor painting.

"When an artist understands the basic principles and elements of design, the subject matter becomes unlimited. The selection of my subject matter is determined by my immediate response to the subject and its surrounding environment. It is essential that I go beyond the level of just recording facts. It is my intent to convey a spontaneous response in an unrestricted yet semi-controlled manner. This approach to watercolor painting lends itself to a unique and unpredictable experience. This state of uncertainty compels me to further explore the world of watercolor."

He is a "Signature Member" of the American Watercolor Society, National Watercolor Society, and Transparent Watercolor Society of America. He has been conducting watercolor workshops for the past thirty-five years and maintains a studio and gallery in his hometown of Medina, Ohio. His diverse approach to watercolor painting has continued to attract individual and corporate collectors, and he has been accepted into numerous top national, state, and regional exhibits.

For more information, visit the instructor's website, artgally.com/fredgraff, email him at fredgraff@earthlink.net or call (303) 725-7893.