Watercolor en Plein Air

Watercolor en Plein Air with Janet Schaus
May 6 – 27 (4 Wednesdays)
9 am – 12 pm
$167 CAE Member / $185 Non-Member
Minimum Students: 5 / Maximum Students: 10

Experience the joy and challenge of painting outdoors in this four-session Watercolor en Plein Air class. Whether you’re brand new to plein air painting or looking to refresh your skills, this class offers a supportive and inspiring environment to explore the beauty of watercolor in nature.

We will meet at CAE at 9:00 AM and return by noon, or you may choose to meet us directly at the day’s location (sent prior to each session). Each week features a different scenic spot in or around Evergreen.

Every session includes:

  • A brief artist demonstration
  • On-location painting time with individualized guidance
  • A short group critique before heading home

Together, we’ll focus on simplifying complex scenes, strengthening compositions, achieving luminous skies, and keeping your middle grounds fresh and expressive. This is a wonderful opportunity to paint locally, spend time outdoors, and connect with fellow artists.

We will paint weather permitting and will only reschedule in the event of high winds, lightning, or rain. Make-up dates will be determined if needed.


Supply List — Please Bring to the First Class

  • Paper
    • Cold-pressed, 100% cotton, 140 lb watercolor paper
    • 7”×10” or 9”×12” block or pad
  • Brushes
    • Round brushes: #4 or #6 and #8 or #10
    • Mop brush: #10 or #12
  • Palette
    • Metal or plastic, folding preferred for travel
  • Paints
    Winsor & Newton Professional Series recommended (not Cotman/student grade). Tubes preferred; pans acceptable.
    • Sepia
    • Burnt Umber
    • Burnt Sienna
    • Lemon Yellow
    • Cadmium Yellow
    • Cadmium Red
    • Alizarin Crimson
    • Permanent Rose
    • Cerulean Blue
    • Cobalt Blue
    • Ultramarine Blue
    • Payne’s Grey
  • Additional Materials
    • Pencil and kneaded eraser
    • Water container with spill-proof lid
    • Small spray bottle
    • Towel or paper towels
    • Artist tape
    • Masonite board slightly larger than your paper
    • Sponge or towel for excess water control
  • Optional Helpful Gear
    • Pochade box with tripod or French easel
    • Chair and board for lap painting
    • Bag, backpack, or container to keep supplies organized
  • Outdoor Essentials
    • Sunscreen
    • Drinking water
    • Hat
    • Snacks
    • Bug repellent
    • Appropriate shoes and clothing

We will be “car painting,” meaning little to no hiking is required. Please note that bathroom facilities may not be available at all locations.

Class Types:

Date(s)

May 06 - 27 2026

Time

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Cost

$185

Level

BEG / INTER

Category

Register

Instructor

  • Janet Schaus
    Janet Schaus

    For as long as I can remember, art has driven me. I am continually amazed and inspired by the talent that abounds in this world. My love of beauty, nature, travel, and history is fueled by my passion for acquiring knowledge and making art. I appreciate changes in light, color, shadows, and contrasts; these are the elements that inspire my creativity. Born in Denver and raised in Summit county, my love of nature continues to influence the art I make. While I am mostly self-taught I have had the great fortune to paint with some amazing artists over the years, learning something valuable and different from each, including using different mediums. Mostly privately commissioned, I have worked throughout the US, Canada, and Switzerland. My work has been included in shows in and around Denver and Evergreen. My passions are wide and varied, from food to skiing, hiking, exploring, and traveling. My creative journey continues to evolve and expand organically.