”Animals: Capturing the Character of Pets and Wildlife in Watercolour”
Creating the textures and features of animals
Wednesdays - June 3 to June 24, 2026
9:30am - 1:30pm
4 Week Course - $300
Be Playful; Be Bold; Be Adventurous; Be Joyful!
Explore form, texture and shadow with colour,
while also observing the
facial features
and expressions that give each animal its character.
Materials List Download
Dress comfortably prepared
to play with paint. Tea/Coffee will available.
How It Works
- 4 Weekly Sessions (4 hours each) Each session focuses on a key aspect of painting seascapes in watercolour — building skills gradually through clear explanations, demonstrations, and guided exercises.
- Foundations First, Always We begin with core watercolour skills such as washes, paint-to-water ratios, colour mixing, tonal values, and brush control, then apply them specifically to ocean scenes, beaches, waves, and coastal forms.
- Learn, Then Do Every class includes step-by-step demonstrations followed by time to practise. You’ll learn how artists simplify reference photos, make design choices, and paint with intention rather than copying.
- Limited Palette, Clear Choices You’ll work with a simple palette of minimal colours — enough to paint a wide range of seascapes without feeling overwhelmed.
- Exercises → Finished Paintings Each session starts with short exercises and leads into a small completed seascape, helping you understand how techniques come together in a finished work.
- Small Group Support With a maximum of 8 participants, you’ll receive individual guidance, gentle modification suggestions where needed, and encouragement in a relaxed, supportive learning environment.
Join for: 4 weeks of creative learning (4 hours each week) — $300
Please note: missed classes are not refundable or transferable.
The Classes
Zoo - Shape & Tone
We will focus on understanding the strong shapes and structure of a big cat (tiger or lion), using tone and colour to describe form and create a sense of presence. Emphasis will be on simplifying the subject while capturing the power and dignity of these animals.
Zoo - Texture & Character
In this session we will explore texture and surface detail, looking at how markings, fur and pattern contribute to the character of the animal. We will also consider how small details and expressions bring personality to the painting. Possible animals - Monkey or Giraffe.
Your Pet - Shape & Tone
We will begin by observing the overall shape and structure of a dog or cat, using
tone and colour to describe form and volume. The focus will be on creating a
strong foundation for the painting while capturing the familiar presence of the
subject..
Your Pet - Texture & Character
This session will focus on suggesting fur texture and capturing the subtle expressions that give your cats or dogs their unique character. Through careful observation and brushwork, we will aim to bring personality and life into the painting.
Roslyn Hartwig uses a step-by-step demonstration method in her classroom to guide students through the drawing process until they have completed their work. Courses often include exercises and visual 'play' to enhance learning and creativity. Her workshops promote a relaxed and fun environment that challenges you to practice the technical aspects of watercolour. Roslyn encourages students to embrace the learning curve, emphasizing that perfection is not expected when trying a new technique for the first time.
Additional Information:
- Workshops are for ages 18 and up.
- Parking options, including on-street and off-street, can be found close to the studio.
- Seats are limited, so be sure to book early to secure your spot.
- By attending this event, you acknowledge that you will not reproduce or teach the techniques discussed for any profit-driven purposes. However, you are permitted to apply the skills learned to develop your own creations.
- Refunds are not available for change of mind or for any classes that are not attended. Refunds will only be granted if required by Australian Consumer Law. By proceeding with your booking, you acknowledge and accept this policy.
- By participating in this workshop, you consent to receive our 'Workshops' newsletter, which will provide you with updates on future workshops and classes.