Shake Off the Winter Doldrums With My Workshop

I have an upcoming workshop at Emerald Art Center in Springfield, OR. On March 1 through 4, 2014, from 9 am to 4 pm class participants will be creating--creating textures on paper to paint on, creating compositions that incorporate reality with the abstract. We will paint rice paper for collage work as well as mine old paintings to find little gems to enliven a new painting. I also intend to introduce folks to making stamps and using them to enhance the interests in a piece of art.

Below is an example of using many techniques to turn the left image into a finished piece with collage, stamping and calligraphic marks.

I will also help class participants combine  reality with abstract design, one of my favorite ways to present animals.

Here are some of the kind words class participants have said about my workshops.

"Margaret’s relaxed, easy manner creates a comfortable environment for the beginner or advanced student.  Her instruction includes many different ways to work with watercolors which has opened up a new world for me."

"Margaret encourages her students to stretch their imagination and skills beyond the ‘comfort zone.’ There is no such word as failure in her classes, only opportunities to experiment and try, try again and find a measure of success. With her help I came to appreciate my own style."


"The best mantra Margaret uses is, “It’s only paper!” Her fearless approach allowed me to be creative and try larger and looser paintings.  After taking classes with Margaret, I was encouraged to apply for membership in the Watercolor Society of Oregon, which I did and was accepted in September, 2007.  I have gone on to sell paintings and exhibit in shows."


"I love Margaret’s demos and the way she encourages ‘loosening up.’  I appreciate the way we stop along the way and evaluate our work.  Her critiques are so valuable.  She can find something good in every painting."