Paint a vibrant watercolor portrait using just four colors — no overthinking, no perfectionism, just a simple, expressive process.

In this beginner-friendly class, you'll learn how to paint a beautiful, expressive portrait using only four watercolor pigments and a limited palette approach. Whether you're new to watercolor or already have some experience, this class will help you simplify your process and build confidence with every step.

Taught in real time, this class is designed to feel like we're painting together. I’ll guide you through each stage — from mixing your colors and freehand sketching the portrait, to layering shadows, adding details, and building a final piece with depth and character.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

How to mix and combine a limited palette of four colors
Tips for freehand sketching portraits, with optional traceable sketch provided
Four essential watercolor techniques for portrait painting
How to set up your workspace for a smooth painting session
A clear, step-by-step process for painting skin tones, features, and background
How to observe your reference with an artist’s eye — without overthinking

By the end of this class, you'll have a finished watercolor portrait, a better understanding of portrait structure and color mixing, and a process you can return to again and again.

🧑‍🎨 Who This Class Is For:

This class is perfect for beginner to intermediate watercolor artists who want to loosen up, learn to trust their process, and explore expressive portrait painting with minimal materials. If you’ve ever felt stuck or overwhelmed by color choices or complex techniques — this is the class for you.

Dawn Hoffman

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