In this class I will guide you through painting an expressive Japanese blossom scene in watercolour, a joyful balance of opposites. We will combine the calm, structured shapes of the temples and bridge with the loose, organic energy of blossoms and branches, creating a painting that feels atmospheric, luminous and full of feeling.

Think pinks and magentas drifting into cool blue greens and quiet neutrals, with expressive brushwork and suggestive reflections that echo the colour without becoming literal. The architecture stays calm and elegant, using simple silhouettes and restful values, while the blossoms arrive as gestures of colour, drifting across the page and dissolving into the water below. You will have room to simplify, invent and make it your own, while still keeping the design clear and balanced.

In this class you will learn:

How to design the scene using big, readable shapes and clear structure
How to keep architecture calm with simple silhouettes and quiet neutrals
How to paint blossoms with expressive brushwork and drifting colour
How to choose a limited palette that feels harmonious and musical
How to use warm and cool shifts to create depth and atmosphere
How to paint reflections that feel soft, suggestive and convincing
How to keep breathing space so light can glow between shapes
How to place a few crisp accents to guide the eye across bridge, roofline and tree

If you enjoy painting with both freedom and clarity, this class will help you bring them together, expressive colour supported by quiet structure.

Thank you so much for your interest in this class!

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Try this class to explore your creativity...

I’ve been painting for many years now, taken part in many exhibitions around the world and won awards from well respected organisations. As well as having my work feature in art magazines. After having success selling my originals and 1000s of prints around the world, I decided to start traveling with my brushes and paintings. My style is modern and attempts to grasp the essence of what I’m painting whilst allowing freedom and expression to come through. I simplify complicated subjects into easier shapes that encourages playfulness.

You'll Learn:

What materials and equipment to need to painting along
Basic technique to complete your first painting
How to avoid common mistakes
Choosing the right colours for your painting
How to blend colours and create textures for different effects
Making corrections and improvements
Finishing touches that make a big difference

When enrolled, I’ll include my complete ‘Watercolour Mixing Charts’. These are a huge aid for beginners and experts alike. They show what every colour on the palette looks like when mixed with each other. Indispensable when it comes to choosing which colour to mix.

Don’t forget to follow me on Skillshare. Click the “follow” button and you’ll be the first to know as soon as I launch a new course or have a big announcement to share with my students.

Additional Resources:

Here are the art supplies I recommend
Follow me on Instagram
Check out my website

Music by Audionautix.com

Jean Martellaro

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