Budding artists new to watercolor have the opportunity to learn from a professional through an online course designed to explore watercolor painting while developing foundational skills, all within the comfort of their own home.

Landscape Watercolor for Relaxation is a three-week, project-based learning opportunity offered by Oklahoma State University Extension and the OSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture’s Design and Education Center.

Taught by Qing Luo, OSU Extension specialist, professor and licensed landscape architect, the class is beginner-friendly and combines foundational techniques while promoting creativity and relaxation.

The class begins Oct. 26 and lasts three weeks, with weekly classes delivered directly to participants.

“This course is designed to help participants experience the calming, restorative benefits of painting while building foundational watercolor skills,” Luo said. “Oftentimes, some people feel that creating art is intimidating, but learning in the comfort of home will help put them at ease and help unlock their artistic expression. Participants can work at their own pace each week.”

Participants will explore various art concepts, including step-by-step watercolor techniques, and interpretive and abstract landscape painting. In addition, participants will complete a watercolor work each week, and Luo will share simple ways to turn the artwork into framed pieces, bookmarks or greeting cards.

“Everyone should expect to spend about four to five hours per week studying and practicing,” she said.

To help enhance this artistic experience, Luo is offering a weekly live office hour session via Zoom.

The course fee is $149 and includes a professional watercolor paint set, brushes, watercolor paper, pencils, waterproof ink pen, instructional materials and shipping fees. The registration deadline is Oct.18, and no refunds are available after Oct. 11. Participants will need access to a printer to print a few handouts and premade sketches each week. Registration and additional information are available online.

“I’ve taught this online course a couple of times, and it has been well received,” Luo said. “It is a great outlet for calming minds and encouraging relaxation. This fall class is just in time for folks who would like to paint their own holiday cards with watercolor.”

Contact Luo for questions about registration logistics at qing.luo@okstate.edu.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communications, program information or reasonable accommodations need to contact Qing Luo at qing.luo@okstate.edu at least two weeks prior to the event.