Florida Watercolor Society upcoming events

Workshop, Online, 2-day with Angus McEwan (June 12, 2026)

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

2-Day Online Workshop via Zoom

Exploring Textures with Watercolor

Angus McEwan

9:00am - 3:00pm

Friday & Saturday, June 12 & 13, 2026

Award-winning watercolorist, Angus McEwan has spent his career focusing on achieving the sense of texture in realistic watercolor paintings. In this workshop, you will explore some of the main techniques Angus uses in the creation of his paintings. They can be loosely described as object based, atmospheric textural, although there are common elements within each painting.

Download his bio:
Angus McEwan BIO.pdf

Download his supply list:
Angus Standard Palette Colour lists Cool and Warm.pdf

Workshop, 4-day, with Soon Young Warren (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Cancellation Policy for this workshop:
The Florida Watercolor Society understands that last minute emergencies, illnesses, and schedule conflicts arise that cannot be controlled or predicted. We are very sorry if this happens, but due to contractual expenses and obligations to our Guest Juror/Artist and rental venues, we are not able to make exceptions to our Cancellation Policy.
The workshop fee includes a 20% non-refundable cancellation charge up to a maximum of $75.00. Refunds of the full Workshop fees will not be given, REGARDLESS of the REASON for withdrawal, unless and until a paid replacement has been found for that seat from the waiting list. If there is no waiting list, it is the responsibility of the workshop participant to find a replacement.
FWS reserves the right to cancel workshops due to insufficient enrollment or other reasons beyond our control. If FWS cancels a workshop, applicants will receive a full workshop registration fee refund.

Workshop, 4-day, with Michael Holter (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

4-day Workshop

Watercolor Impressionism
Michael Holter

9:00am - 4:00pm, Monday - Thursday,
September 28th - October 1st

This workshop will focus on the use of watercolors to paint exciting impressionistic paintings of landscapes and cityscapes. You will paint from photographs and will explore the use of light and shadow to create interesting compositions and achieve dynamic results. We will work on basic perspective and how to appropriately incorporate figures into the painting. We will examine the fundamentals of watercolor painting to ensure that all students are familiar with the techniques. Daily discussions and application of the principles and elements of design will be woven into your painting experience.

Note: Please read the Cancellation Policy before registering.

Michael's Bio: Holter bio.pdf

Cancellation Policy for Workshops:
The Florida Watercolor Society understands that last minute emergencies, illnesses, and schedule conflicts arise that cannot be controlled or predicted. We are very sorry if this happens, but due to contractual expenses and obligations to our Guest Juror/Artist and rental venues, we are not able to make exceptions to our Cancellation Policy.
The workshop fee includes a 20% non-refundable cancellation charge up to a maximum of $75.00. Refunds of the full Workshop fees will not be given, REGARDLESS of the REASON for withdrawal, unless and until a paid replacement has been found for that seat from the waiting list. If there is no waiting list, it is the responsibility of the workshop participant to find a replacement.
FWS reserves the right to cancel workshops due to insufficient enrollment or other reasons beyond our control. If FWS cancels a workshop, applicants will receive a full workshop registration fee refund.

Workshop, 2-day, with Karen Knutson (September 30, 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

2-Day Workshop
Adding WOW to Your Watercolors!
Karen Knutson, AWS, NWS

At the Bradenton Convention Center
9:00am - 4:00pm, Wednesday September 30
and Thursday, October 1

Ready to elevate your watercolor paintings from beautiful to unforgettable?

In this dynamic workshop, you’ll discover how strong composition, bold design, and rich texture can completely transform your work. Karen will guide you step-by-step in creating an abstract background that sets the perfect stage for your floral subject—instantly adding depth, drama, and impact.

Want to make your paintings truly shine? Learn how to incorporate luminous gold accents for a stunning, show-stopping finish that captures attention and light.

You’ll also explore creative textural techniques that add intrigue and mystery to any subject. While flowers are featured, you’re free to choose what inspires you—animals, still life, silhouettes, and more. These versatile methods work beautifully across a variety of themes.

Students select their own subject matter, making this experience both personal and powerful.

Karen Knutson, a nationally recognized and highly sought-after instructor, brings energy, expertise, and inspiration to every class. Join us—and get ready to take your watercolors to an exciting new level!

Note: Please read the Cancellation Policy before registering

Download her bio:

Biography -2026.pdf

Download the supply list for her workshop:

Supply list for Knutson workshop.pdf

2026 Annual Convention (attending in person) (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Workshop, 1-day, with Robin Lee Makowski (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

1-Day Workshop

with Robin Lee Makowski
Watercolor Techniques on Aquabord®

About the workshop:

Learn the tips & tricks of watercolor painting on this great substrate: Aquabord® by Ampersand. Finished paintings require NO MATS and NO GLASS – frame like a canvas! Paintings are sealed with an archival UV spray sealant.

More Information (click to download):

Download information sheet:

AquabordWS_Overview.pdf

Download her bio:

Robin BIO.pdf

Download supply list:

Aquabord WS_Supply list.pdf

Experience level:

Intermediate to Advanced Only. This workshop is NOT for beginners! Aquabord® is tricky, so participants will need to know how watercolor normally behaves on paper and make adjustments to handling the medium on this completely different substrate.

Cancellation:

Please read the Cancellation Policy before registering

What to expect:

We’ll practice the techniques for successful watercolor paintings on Aquabord® and we will have a demonstration on how to seal the piece when it’s done. There will be a review if time allows.

Materials:

Normal watercolor supplies: any brand of watercolors, brushes, etc. Aquabord® practice chips provided (see supply list link above).

Subject Matter:

Source photos of the instructor’s choice, drawing template, and transfer paper will be provided. Images are selected to maximize the techniques we can practice and learn in one day.

Please note:

Aquabord® is not watercolor paper. It’s a kaolin clay-coated hardboard that mimics the texture of cold pressed watercolor paper but does NOT behave like it at all! Do not expect to go home with a masterpiece if this is the first time attempting this substrate, but you will be able to wash it off and start over! Like anything, it takes practice, but what you’ll save on mats and glass is well worth it!

Please e-mail Robin with any questions at MakoArts5@gmail.com