This five-day class is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of watercolor painting and give them a solid understanding of how to use the medium with confidence and control. Silvia will begin with the basics of watercolor materials, including papers, brushes, pigments, and the importance of understanding the relationship between water and paint. Students will learn how to mix clean color, create washes and smooth transitions, control hard and soft edges, establish values, layer transparent color, and work with both wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques. Through demonstrations and guided exercises, students will practice these skills before applying them to complete paintings. As the week progresses, Silvia will demonstrate how to simplify a reference, develop form through value and color, create depth and texture, and use watercolors transparent qualities effectively. Students will receive individual instruction throughout the week and will have the opportunity to complete several studies and finished paintings. This class is designed for beginners as well as students who have some experience with watercolor but would like a stronger understanding of the fundamentals. No previous watercolor experience is required.