Painting with watercolours

Watercolour painting is a captivating medium that allows one to create delicate colour washes, and beautiful layered effects. Beginners and experienced artists alike love painting with watercolours, and this dynamic medium holds a significant place in art traditions around the world, transcending cultural boundaries with its universal appeal.

Pictured above: snaps from Artify Studio's beginner-friendly watercolour painting workshops.

Watercolour paints’ rise to prominence in Western art can be traced back to the Renaissance, where they were used for botanical and wildlife illustrations. In East Asia, watercolour techniques have been integral to classical Chinese, Japanese, and Korean paintings, often associated with calligraphy and executed on silk or rice paper. The medium’s fluidity and spontaneity align with the philosophical and aesthetic values of these cultures, emphasising harmony with nature. In India, watercolours were used in the intricate miniature paintings that date back to the Mughal era in the 16th century. 

Pictured above: close-ups of a sunflower painting by Artify's resident watercolour painting instructor Kanchan.

Today, watercolour is appreciated for its quick-drying and layering capabilities, offering artists a range of expressive possibilities. With its portability and versatility, watercolours are a favourite among artists who work en plein air or wish to capture the subtle nuances of light and colour in their paintings. 

At Artify Studio, our beginner-friendly watercolour painting workshops are taught by experienced art intructors. These workshops allow you to delve into the delicate and nuanced world of watercolour painting, providing you with the techniques and inspiration to create your own luminous works of art, embracing the diverse techniques and styles that have shaped its history. For all classes, all art materials and art instructor guidance are provided, and no prior art experience is required. Browse our ongoing workshops by clicking here.

Pictured above: participants get to create these beautiful paintings in guided workshops by our resident watercolour instructor Kanchan Mehendale. From left to right... National Gallery Watercolour Workshop, Joo Chiat Shophouse Watercolour Workshop, Urban Sketching Workshop.