1.      Check out the instructor first. Talk to that person and see if you think you would get along well. Most instructors are very available to talk to students.

2.      Bring in your work and let the instructor see what you have done in the past.

3.      Speak up: your instructor probably cannot read your mind (well maybe.)

It is your responsibility to ask the instructor for help when you need it.

4.      Take at least one break during the 3 hour session. You will come back with an improved perspective. This is especially true if you are frustrated, tired, or unsure what to do next.

5.      Call or email your instructor mid-painting if you would like a little help between classes.

6.      Keep your work together and destroy nothing. Date it on the back in pencil. You might be very surprised at your progress.

7.      If you do not understand something, please ask. There are so many ways to explain any one technique.

8.      Try to relax and leave the world at the classroom doorstep. There is something about painting that does not respond well to hurry and impatience. Try to be kind and relaxed with yourself as you improve as a painter.

9.      Look at as much art as you can everywhere you go. You will learn much and be inspired by others.

10.   Keep a sketchbook. I like to sketch in color with Prismacolor Pencils (oil based.) You may prefer another sketching medium but the value of sketching to capture your precious ideas cannot be overstated.

11.   If you love to paint – persist. Hang in there and give the artist in yourself the value and time that she/he deserves. The best painters are almost never the ones with the most talent. The best painters are the ones who believe in themselves and keep painting.

12.   Remember, you learn to paint by painting. I will help you all I can but most of it is building new neural pathways in your brain. You simply have to paint a 100 paintings, no matter what you think of them. At 100 paintings you will probably know where you are with the medium.

Welcome to the world of Fabulous Flowing Watercolor. I wish nothing but the very best for you. Please, never hesitate to call me to talk.

Cheryl Renee Long

253-277-2807     cherylrlong@comcast.net