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Watercolor Classes Chicago

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Unleash your creativity with watercolor painting classes in Chicago. Learn essential techniques, gain confidence in your artistic abilities, and create beautiful, vibrant artwork.

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16 results

Pen & Ink Watercolor

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unleash your creativity with Pen & Ink and Watercolor techniques! Join us for a hands-on artistic journey where you'll learn to create stunning drawings and paintings using a variety of pens and watercolor mediums. Get ready to explore new techniques and unlock your artistic potential.

(93) All levels 16 and older
$240

5 sessions

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+2400 pts
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Watercolor Studio (Ages 12-14)

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Explore the vibrant world of watercolor in this creative and engaging camp. Students will master essential techniques like color blending, wax resist, and texture creation while crafting stunning portraits and landscapes. Perfect for aspiring artists, this camp invites creativity to flow through the beauty of watercolor.

(93) All levels 12 - 14 years old
$385

5 sessions

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+3850 pts
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Watercolor 1

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Discover the transformative potential of watercolor in botanical art, mastering fundamental techniques from color mixing to paint-layering. Dive into exercises designed to enhance your paint-handling skills and render textures with lifelike precision. Elevate your botanical artwork as you progress from basic principles to nuanced expression, guided by prerequisite knowledge in botanical drawing and color mixing.

(142) Intermediate 18 and older
$449

6 sessions

Attend
+4490 pts
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Plein Air in the City

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Experience the vibrant cityscape like never before as you immerse yourself in the art of capturing urban beauty en plein air. Explore lush gardens and architectural wonders, refining your skills in drawing and painting amidst the dynamic energy of Chicago's iconic locations. Master the techniques of composition, color, and rapid sketching under the guidance of seasoned instructors.

(93) All levels 18 and older
$150
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+1500 pts
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Adult WaterColors

The Paintbrush See all classes by this school @ 2446 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

Discover the beauty and versatility of watercolor painting in this exclusive adults-only class. Enhance your skills or start from scratch as you immerse yourself in the vibrant world of watercolors. Join us at The Paintbrush and unleash your creativity with our expert guidance and provided materials.

(4) All levels 15 and older
$382

8 sessions

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+3820 pts
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Online Watercolor 201 - Beginner

Pastimes for a Lifetime See all classes by this school @ Live Online via Zoom

Discover the beauty of watercolor painting with Online Watercolor 201. Learn essential techniques, color mixing, and brushstrokes to create stunning works of art. Perfect for aspiring fine artists, illustrators, and designers.

(23) Beginner 7 and older
$180

4 sessions

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+1800 pts
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Online Watercolor 202 - Intermediate

Pastimes for a Lifetime See all classes by this school @ Live Online via Zoom

Take your watercolor skills to the next level with this intermediate class at Pastimes for a Lifetime. Learn advanced techniques for texture, tone, and color layering, and discover how to create deeper, richer colors in your paintings. Perfect for artists interested in fine art or illustration.

(23) Intermediate 7 and older
$160

4 sessions

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+1600 pts
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Watercolor

BrushCapades See all classes by this school @ Online Classroom

Unleash your creativity with a hands-on tutorial that provides all the necessary materials for a 90-minute watercolor experience. Discover the joy of painting with a watercolor fan set, brushes, and high-quality paper, all included in this immersive workshop. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the beautiful world of watercolors!

(15) All levels 8 and older
$65
Attend
+650 pts
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Beginners Watercolor Painting

The Art Studio NY See all classes by this school @ Online Classroom

Ignite your inner artist with inspiring watercolor painting classes at NYC's #1-rated art studio. Learn a wide variety of techniques and explore landscape, still life, and abstraction. No experience necessary - this course is perfect for beginners!

(659) Beginner 18 and older
$99

4 sessions

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+990 pts
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Intermediate Watercolor Painting

The Art Studio NY See all classes by this school @ Online Classroom

Deepen your practice of watercolor painting and express your creativity in this inspiring online class. Learn from top-notch professionals and connect with a supportive community of artists worldwide. Discover a wide variety of techniques and styles to enhance your skills and increase your artistic confidence.

(659) Intermediate 18 and older
$149

4 sessions

Attend
+1490 pts
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Beginners Watercolor Painting Class Online: All Levels

The Art Studio NY See all classes by this school @ Online Classroom

Ignite your creativity with online watercolor painting classes! Perfect for all levels, learn a variety of techniques from gradated washes to color mixing. Join a supportive community of artists and express your authentic self through vibrant watercolor creations.

(659) Beginner 18 and older
$149

4 sessions

Attend
+1490 pts
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Beginner/Intermediate Watercolor Diary: A 6 Week Painting Marathon

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school

Discover the joy of daily creativity with a watercolor sketchbook journey designed to inspire consistent practice. Explore new techniques, master color mixing with a travel palette, and develop personal painting philosophies. Share your progress each week and celebrate your growing collection of vibrant mini masterpieces.

(93) Beginner 16 and older
$220

6 sessions

Attend
+2200 pts
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Plein Air Watercolor: From Sketchbook Making to Outdoor Painting

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school

Capture the beauty of the world around you as you learn to create and use your own custom travel sketchbooks. This course explores essential drawing and watercolor techniques, color mixing with a limited palette, and tips for painting on location. Discover your ideal tools and materials for sketching in nature or cityscapes.

(93) All levels 18 and older
$220

10 sessions

Attend
+2200 pts
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Beginning Watercolor: Online

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ Online via Zoom

Unlock your creativity and learn to paint sparkling, luminous watercolors with the Chicago Botanic Garden's virtual botanical art class. Explore brush techniques, color-mixing, and control of washes from the comfort of your own home. No prior experience is needed.

(142) Beginner 18 and older
$349

7 sessions

Attend
+3490 pts
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Painting the Natural World

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ Online via Zoom

Discover the world of watercolor as you learn to depict the beauty of nature in this online course offered by the Chicago Botanic Garden. Explore the art of painting the natural world from the comfort of your own home, and unlock the secrets to achieving sparkling and sensitive effects with watercolor. Previous experience in watercolor or a similar medium is recommended.

(142) All levels 18 and older
$349

6 sessions

Attend
+3490 pts
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Start Watercolor Painting (Self-paced)

International Open Academy See all classes by this school - Self-paced Video Training

Discover the joy of watercolor painting with step-by-step guidance on materials, techniques, and creative inspiration. Learn how to confidently begin your artistic journey and transform everyday scenes into stunning works of art.

All levels 18 and older
$120
Attend
+1200 pts
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Loose and Free Beginning Watercolor: An Unconventional Approach (Ages 16+)

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Discover the magic of watercolor as you explore freeing techniques that embrace spontaneity and creativity. Learn to mix colors in dynamic ways and experiment with tilting, spraying, and lifting to create unique effects. Through guided demos, skill-building exercises, and personalized feedback, you'll gain confidence—whether you're a beginner or looking to loosen up your style.

(93) Beginner 16 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$280

6 sessions

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Watercolors: Materials, Composition & Technique

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Unlock the secrets of watercolor mastery as you explore techniques, compositions, and materials in this immersive art experience. Discover the art of vibrant washes, wet-in-wet painting, and sketch-free creations. Join a supportive community of artists for critiques and unleash your creativity with the guidance of a skilled instructor.

(93) All levels 16 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$280

6 sessions

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Watercolor Studio (Ages 9-11)

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Explore the vibrant world of watercolor in this creative and engaging camp. Students will master essential techniques like color blending, wax resist, and texture creation while crafting stunning portraits and landscapes. Perfect for aspiring artists, this camp invites creativity to flow through the beauty of watercolor.

(93) All levels 9 - 11 years old
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$385

5 sessions

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Pen & Ink & Dr. Martin Watercolor

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Explore the dynamic fusion of pen, ink, and vibrant Dr. Martin watercolors in this engaging workshop. From intricate studies to a final masterpiece, experiment with a variety of tools to bring your artistic vision to life. Join us and unleash your creativity with expert guidance and inspiring still life compositions.

(93) All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$145

2 sessions

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Reviews for Watercolor Classes in Chicago

Watercolor Classes in Chicago are rated 4.3 stars based on 12 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • Great teacher. The space is also wonderful. Love the brightly lit room and going to class in a building filled with art.
  • Couldn’t be happier with this class. Great pace. Great teacher. Love that there is free parking!
  • Pen, Ink and Watercolor has proven a wonderful art experience encompassing teaching of technique, skill and medium as well as sharing up to date information on the current art world. Michelle Kogan is a notable teacher and artist, supportive of student growth and experimentation. I have signed on again for another session.
  • Open Studio was a wonderful experience for me. The studio itself is roomy and a great set up. Ingrid is the best. I learned so much from her in one session and can’t wait to return.
  • Loved this class and learned so much from John. What a great teacher and at such a beautiful location. I will take another of his classes when he returns. Thano you.

Discover the Best Watercolor Classes in Chicago

Watercolor painting has a rich history, and much of that history is celebrated in the Art Institute of Chicago. The institute’s collection is home to thousands of watercolor artworks, from renowned icons to lesser-known artists. Browsing the collection, you’ll find hundreds of artists that will inspire you and help you learn new concepts of watercolor. 

Chicago's rich artistic history, from iconic architecture to world-class museums, provides endless inspiration for watercolor artists. In addition, you can find natural inspiration for your art when you visit Chicago. For example, visit the lakefront, look out over stunning cityscapes and diverse neighborhoods, and capture the beauty of a bustling city. You’ll find nearly endless topics to paint while you live in Chicago. 

The best way to learn watercolor in Chicago is by taking art classes. Art classes are taught by professional artists who will lead you through the basics and ensure that you establish proper watercolor techniques. CourseHorse offers a list of classes and local Chicago art schools that you can book. Keep reading to learn more about art classes in Chicago. 

Why You Should Learn Watercolor in Chicago

There are many benefits to learning watercolor, especially while living in a vibrant and active city like Chicago. Firstly, starting watercolor as a hobby provides a delightful and fulfilling way to alleviate stress, channel creativity, and make the most of your free time. Whether you're seeking a therapeutic outlet or a way to create meaningful gifts for others, watercolor painting can bring joy and fulfillment to your life.

Next, learning watercolor in Chicago allows you to join a community of like-minded individuals. The city has numerous local watercolor clubs, groups, events, and organizations dedicated to the arts. Through these connections, you’ll have opportunities to connect with fellow watercolor students and artists. You can share ideas, gain inspiration, and create valuable connections that enhance your artistic journey.

If you’re interested in learning watercolor to start a career, then taking a watercolor class is a great way to start. Watercolor is popular among illustrators and artists. So, you can work in the publishing industry or start your own art studio. Watercolor classes in Chicago offer many benefits. You will learn a fulfilling hobby, have opportunities to network and connect with other artists, and you’ll be able to learn new skills. 

In-Person Watercolor Classes & Schools in Chicago

Taking an in-person watercolor class is the best way to learn this art style. There are several techniques that you’ll need to master to have a good foundation and understanding of how to excel with watercolor painting. Luckily, there are several watercolor classes that you can consider taking in Chicago. 

A great class for beginners is the Watercolor 1 class from the Chicago Botanic Garden. This class includes six sessions to ensure that you’re able to master the art before you graduate from the class. You will learn basic color mixing and paint-handling exercises. Over the course of the class, you will progress to rendering textures and form in color and using paint-layering techniques.

There is a prerequisite to this class, however. Consider taking Botanical Drawing 1 and Color Mixing before signing up for the watercolor class. The prerequisite will give you a better understanding of how to draw natural flowers in art. If you have questions about either class, reach out to CourseHorse. 

The Chicago Botanic Garden also offers an English Watercolor Techniques class for intermediate students. This class includes six sessions and you will move forward from the skills you learning in Watercolor 1. You will learn an emphasis on the realistic portrayal of botanical subjects and traditional methods of dry-brush watercolor painting. You will also receive plenty of live demonstrations and personal instruction. 

You can also take Watercolors: Materials, Composition & Technique from the Evanston Art Center. This class also includes six sessions and lasts for three hours. During the class, you’ll learn several essential techniques, including: 

  • Watercolor techniques
  • Applying watercolor washes
  • Painting wet in wet
  • Painting without a sketch

You will create vibrant and subdued paintings with strong compositions. You will also learn to draw and paint a wide variety of still lifes. Throughout the course, your class will also participate in group critiques so you can learn from your classmates and receive supportive feedback as you learn the basics of watercolor painting. 

Virtual Watercolor Classes & Schools

Virtual classes are a great option for those who can’t commute to in-person classes. You get great instruction, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback from the comfort of your home. Keep reading to learn about some of the best online watercolor classes

If this is your first watercolor class, consider taking Watercolors for Absolute Beginners from 92nd Street Y. This class is the perfect class for those who want to learn watercolor but have no experience with the medium and little experience with art. It includes six sessions of classes and is open to those who are 18 years and older. 

According to the class description, here’s what you can expect once you sign up for the course, “[l]earn the basics of watercolor painting including—paint, brush, paper, value, color mixing, wash, wet-in-wet, wet-over-dry. Move on to form, light, color, and composition.” This class is a great way to learn watercolor painting quickly. 

Another great class to consider taking is Watercolors from Family Photos from 92nd Street Y. This class meets for three sessions and focuses on painting family photos. You will learn how to recompose and reinterpret your family photos by painting the faces you love the most in watercolor. 

If you’ve always wanted to capture a treasured family photo and turn it into art, this is one of the best classes for you to take. During the class, you will also learn varying watercolor techniques such as wet-on-wet and glazing. 

CourseHorse lists some of the best watercolor classes in your area. If you’re interested in taking a class to learn the basics of watercolor, sign up with CourseHorse today. 

Private Group Watercolor Classes in Chicago

Are you looking for a way to reward your employees with a fun team-building event? CourseHorse offers the best watercolor classes for private groups in Chicago. You can book a team event and allow your employees to relax while following a guided watercolor class. 

One of the best classes is the Virtual Watercolor Workshop (Materials Included). The class lasts for 90 minutes, and your group will learn to apply watercolor techniques to create an abstract painting in this relaxing and creative workshop. You will build layers while painting a picture unique to your group. 

This class also includes the materials, and everything will be shipped to your group members before the start of the class. Everyone will be able to fully participate in this relaxing team event. For more information about CourseHorse’s group classes, visit the website. You can also browse through the extensive class list and learn more about the classes CourseHorse offers.

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