Botanical
watercolor
workshops
Dive into watercolor botanicals! It’s a fun, creative way to bond with nature. The fluidity of watercolor bring plants to life, boosting your eye for detail and patience—all while having a blast!
Painting orchids in the Twin Cities
3-Day Watercolor Workshop | Twin Cities, MN | Sept 5–7 | $425
Join Cris Godoy, former Minnesota resident and botanical artist, for an immersive 3-day watercolor workshop focused on orchids, combining expert guidance, practice, and personal expression
DAY 1 – Watercolor Foundations (5 hours, time TBA)
Perfect for beginners and skill refreshers, this session covers:
Even washes
Layering techniques
Wet-on-wet vs. wet-on-dry
Brush control and expressive strokes
Basic drawing and composition made simple
Exploring various methods to find your style
DAY 2 – Botanical Painting Techniques
Location TBA (likely Como Zoo Conservatory)
5 hours (exact time TBA)
We’ll dive into the intricacies of botanical watercolor, focusing on precision and sensitivity while still allowing room for personal interpretation.
You’ll learn:
Core techniques of botanical illustration in watercolor
A brief but essential overview of color theory
Understanding tonal values to create strong, dimensional forms
DAY 3 – Complete Your Orchid Painting
Location TBA (likely Como Zoo Conservatory)
5 hours (exact time TBA)
This final day is where everything comes together. You’ll begin and complete your own orchid painting, guided by Cris and Pam.
We’ll explore:
How to build a painting from start to finish
Warm and cool color temperatures and how they affect depth and atmosphere
Final layers, finishing techniques, and subtle details that bring a botanical subject to life
You’ll leave with new skills, a finished piece, and a deeper understanding of botanical watercolor.
DETAILS
Material list provided upon registration (materials not included)
Participants are responsible for their own lunch, transportation, and lodging
All levels welcome — especially those curious about botanical art
Day 2 & 3 venue will be confirmed upon registration — most likely the historic Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Cost: $425
Spaces are limited. Early registration encouraged
Painting orchids at Selby Gardens
Botanical Watercolor Workshop: From Pencil Sketch to Finished Painting
THIS IS A THREE-PART SERIES
Dates: 9/13, 9/20, 9/27
more details here
Watercoloring in Portugal
Join us at the 7th International Meeting Street Sketching in Torres Vedras, Portugal, from October 3 to 4, 2025