PHILOSOPHY

I offer classes in watercolour painting, drawing and weekend art escapes. See the latest newsletter for dates and times. Below is more information about my methods and beliefs.

The Beliefs
I believe that all individuals are born with the ability and desire to be creative. We are all creative in the ways we live our lives and create our living environments. The opportunity to create art is often hampered by the circumstances of our work driven lives. However the ability to create is never lost and creativity in the form of art making can be achieved through learning to see, to draw, to paint, and to express what is unique within each one of us.

Individuals of all ages can learn to draw and paint. It is not age, skill, or intelligence that matters. It is the desire to create. If you want to tap your creative ability and express your way of seeing to world in a visual art form then you can do it.

I have found that students who learn how to draw and learn to understand the mixing and use of colour can more easily express themselves visually.

Realistic Drawing is one of the easiest skills to learn. If you have the ability to hold a pencil or pen, and can see well enough to read this page then you can learn to draw.

Understanding colour enriches all aspects of life and opens our eyes to a new appreciation of both the natural world and urban surroundings. Use of colour is another tool of the artists toolkit and is easy to learn.

The Teacher
Joanne Thomson is an accomplished artist in watercolour and illustration. She has earned a Master Degree in Adult Education and loves to open people’s eyes to their own creative potential. Joanne has studied and understands both the barriers to learning visual expression and the ways to overcome or remove those barriers. Her classes are joyful, open, informative, ego-boosting and safe places to learn and experiment.

The Students
Adults from all walks of life who want to learn a new skill, recapture an old one, or just learn how to play in a new way.

The Classes
Located in Victoria BC Canada for current course offerings please refer to the most recent newsletter. Joanne teaches small classes in her studio as well as through the University of Victoria Continuing Education and Saanich Parks and Recreations, as labyrinth sessions through Royal Roads University.

Suggested Supplies
email me and I will send you my recommended supply list for watercolour painting.

Private Lessons in drawing and painting or Art Retreats for groups and organizations: If you are interested in private lessons or lessons for a small group of people, please contact me for available times and fees.