Oklahoma State University Extension and the OSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture are teaming up to offer two opportunities this summer that will allow participants to tap into their creative side.

The Landscape Watercolor for Relaxation class is a three-week online course using a project-based teaching approach. Taught by Qing Luo, OSU Extension specialist and associate professor in the horticulture and landscape architecture department, the class is beginner-friendly and combines foundational techniques while promoting creativity and relaxation.

Participants can learn at their own pace from home with weekly, pre-recorded lessons released on July 20, July 27 and Aug. 3.

“During the course, we’ll explore various art concepts through step-by-step watercolor techniques,” she said. “Participants will spend about four to six hours on each week’s assignment, and they’ll complete a watercolor work each week.”

The course fee is $149 and includes a professional watercolor set, paintbrushes, watercolor paper, pencils, artist tape and instructional materials. Materials will be shipped to participants in Oklahoma at no charge. A $20 shipping fee will be assessed to those outside of Oklahoma. The registration deadline is July 10. Participants will need access to a printer to print a few handouts and premade sketches each week. Registration and additional information are available online.

The Outdoor Living Space design course is an in-person, hands-on opportunity in which participants will design their own outdoor living space. No prior design experience is required for this adults-only class.

“We are asking participants to print their property site so they can work on their own design and layout,” Luo said. “They can include a variety of functional areas in the design, including a patio, deck, pool, fire pit, outdoor kitchen, seating, water features or other elements. Participants will be guided by a professional architect and professor who will help them learn design theory, design process, drawing skills and material options.”

Keep in mind that this is a design class about space planning. Choice and placement of specific plant species will not be covered.

“The landscape is an extension of the home, and it’s important to make it as functional and comfortable as any room inside your home,” Luo said.

The class will take place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on July 23, July 28 and July 30 on the OSU-Stillwater campus with a one-hour lunch break. Participants may register online, and the class is limited to 30 students. The registration fee of $149 is due by July 16 and includes the use of drawing supplies. Contact Ag Conference Services for questions about registration logistics.

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