OLLI Experience: From Sketchbook to Painting (DRAKE HALL)

Do you want to learn how to take a reference photo and turn it into a finished painting, but don’t know where to start? This is the class for you! Sketchbooks are essential to developing a finished painting. Before you can start a painting, you need time for concept development, design, experimenting with formats and colors, and a lot of upfront trial and error. A sketchbook is where you first work out all those painting elements. Once you’ve used your sketchbook for planning, you’re ready to paint! Learn Steve’s strategy for using your sketchbook to move from reference photo to finished painting. You'll be surprised at what you can do with a paintbrush, an open mind, and a sense of humor! We recommend that you have taken Fundamentals of Loose Watercolor Painting or have previously taken a class with Steve before enrolling in this class. 

Course Supplies Available HERE 

Steve Griggs is a Denver-based watercolor artist who has a signature membership with the Rocky Mountain National Watermedia Society and the Colorado Watercolor Society. He is a member of the American Watercolor Society, National Watercolor Society, and American Impressionists Society. Steve frequently displays and sells work in local, state, regional, and national exhibitions and galleries. He consistently wins awards in national and regional exhibits, and he has collectors worldwide. His work has been featured in publications such as Southwest Art, Watercolor Artist, and The Artist magazines. Steve is a sought-after workshop instructor with students from around the globe. 

Notes

• A current OLLI membership is required to register for all courses and lectures. 
• If you do not have a Spring 2026 membership, one will be added to your cart at checkout. 
• OLLI membership fees and course tuition are critical to the Institute's sustainability and are non-refundable.

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