Landscape Painting Workshop
Open to artists of all skill levels, these two- or three-day intensive workshops offer instruction in landscape painting techniques—plus opportunities to be immersed in the tranquility of nature.
Each workshop will begin with demonstrations, as well as an in-studio review of the fundamentals of color mixing, composition, and other painting concepts. You will then apply your knowledge and hone your powers of observation as you depict the idyllic northern Michigan landscape. With gorgeous lakeviews framed by seasonal foliage, you will have an inspiring environment in which to practice your art.
After working “en plein air,” you'll be invited back into the studio to discuss and fine-tune your work.
July 9 - 11, 2025
Instructor: Mark Mehaffey
Medium: Watercolor or acrylic
Tuition: $356
Fee increases after April 1
Aug. 8 - 9, 2025
Instructor: Mark Mehaffey
Medium: Watercolor or acrylic
Tuition: $266
Fee increases after April 1
On-Campus Lodging
Participants can enjoy a special rate at the Stone Hotel and Cottages.
Materials for this workshop are open to those who wish to bring acrylic paints, gouache, or watercolor. You do not need to bring all three. The instructor will provide demos in watercolor and acrylic, however students may work with the medium they feel most comfortable and the instructor will provide guidance for each. The instructor works with a split primary palette in his own watercolor and acrylic work and suggested colors for each medium are provided below.
A lightweight plein air easel (with carrying case) will be provided for each participant to use. Those wishing to bring their own easel may do so. French easels are also available.
For Paint (please select the media that you’d like to work with during the workshop):
- Suggested colors for WATERCOLOR/GOUACHE include: hansa yellow light, and gamboge, ultramarine and thalo blue (cobalt is also acceptable), quinacridone rose and winsor red, plus black and white gouache.
- Suggested colors for ACRYLICS include: cadmium yellow light, cadmium dark, alizarin crimson, cadmium red light, ultramarine and thalo blue, plus black and white.
Surfaces/Painting supports (select from the following based upon the medium you are working with):
- For WATERCOLOR/GOUACHE: Arches 140lb. cold press paper in the block form.
- For ACRYLIC: pre-gessoed canvas or painting panels in the 8” x 10” and / or 9” x 12” sizes (the instructor uses Raymar panels).
Brushes appropriate for acrylic and watermedia, the larger the better.
Please also bring:
- Your sketch book (include 4, 5 or 6B pencils)
- Your camera, if you have one…
- Bug spray, sunscreen and a hat please!
- Caution: if you bring it, you will have to CARRY it!
See our registration and cancellation policy.
K-12 educators in Michigan can earn SCECH clock hours by attending any session of the Landscape Painting Workshop.
Discover more programs for adult artists
View all of our in-person and online programs for adults, or sign up for new program announcements.
