2-DAY INTENSIVE:

Wildlife Realism in Watercolors

This two-day intensive workshop is designed for serious young artists ages 9–12 who want to deepen their skills in realistic watercolor painting. Students will work from high-quality wildlife references to create a finished animal portrait using observational drawing, layered washes, and careful attention to detail.

Instruction emphasizes patience, craftsmanship, and seeing like an artist. While the workshop is age-appropriate, it maintains high artistic standards and a calm, studio-style environment. Each student will complete a finished watercolor painting by the end of the second day.

Overview

Class Details

  • Ages: 9-12

  • Schedule:
    Monday, February 16 from 9:00am-3:00pm
    Tuesday, February 17 from 9:00am-3:00pm

  • Session Length: 2 days

  • Location:
    SPARK Studio at the Cornelia Arts Building
    1800 W Cornelia Avenue, Studio 205A
    Chicago, IL 60657

Tuition

Tuition: $300 per student

Duration: Two full days

Class size: Limited enrollment to ensure individualized instruction

Tuition includes all high-quality art materials used during the workshop, allowing students to focus fully on learning without the need to purchase or bring supplies. Each student will work with professional-grade watercolor paper, paints, and brushes selected specifically for wildlife realism.

This two-day intensive offers focused, small-group instruction for young artists who are serious about developing their skills in watercolor realism. Tuition reflects the length of the workshop, the limited class size, and the level of individualized guidance provided throughout both days.

Students receive step-by-step demonstrations, one-on-one feedback, and the opportunity to complete a finished wildlife watercolor painting while learning observational drawing and refined watercolor techniques.

All students must register individually. All materials are provided and may be taken home at the conclusion of the workshop.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  • Learn how to observe wildlife anatomy and structure

  • Use graphite transfer paper to create an accurate preliminary drawing

  • Build form and texture using layered watercolor washes and detail work

  • Develop control with brushwork and color

  • Complete a finished wildlife painting suitable for display

Age & Skill Policy

Ages: 9-12

Note:

This workshop is designed for students who enjoy focused, patient work and are comfortable developing the same project over an extended period of time.

Experience:

Students do not need prior formal instruction; however, they should have some basic experience with drawing and watercolors.

Highly motivated 8-year-old students with a strong interest in developing their skills may be considered for enrollment with instructor approval. Please contact us at office@sparkstudiochi.com to discuss your child’s experience and share examples of their work.