This is a basic watercolor workshop by Ellen Jean Diederich TWSA, RRWS, WSA, WW

Basic Watercolor Workshop

A Refresh and Skill-Builder for All Levels

Dates: August 14–16, 2026
Time: 10:00 am – 3:30 pm daily
Instructor: Ellen Jean Diederich (TWSA, RRWS, WSA, WW)

Sponsored by: The Badlands Art Association

Registration & Contact Information

To reserve your spot or ask questions, please reach out to our coordinators:

• Ruth Heley: [email protected] | 701-590-8508
• Tod Winter: [email protected] | 701-260-9504

Location: NDSU Extension Stark/Billings County
2680 Empire Road, Suite 2680B
Dickinson, ND

About the Workshop

Whether you are looking for a watercolor refresher or want to build upon your current skill set, this workshop is for you! Because there is always so much to learn, we will focus deeply on the fundamentals so you can confidently apply them to any future painting.

During this three-day intensive, we will practice core techniques, explore how to arrange shapes, and use strong design principles to dramatically improve your compositions. Our ultimate goal will be working toward completing a finished piece on the final day.

You can expect multiple step-by-step demonstrations alongside plenty of dedicated time to explore and create your own original paintings. You are welcome to paint from provided photographs and/or bring your own personal reference photos (please do not bring photos of other artists’ paintings to copy).

Syllabus

• Friday: Warm up by working directly with paint, paper, and the creative process. We will study shapes and color circles, then paint a row of trees to practice creating three-dimensional volume.
• Saturday: Warm up by painting a flower while holding it directly in your hand, then learn how to paint and seamlessly integrate a background around it. Afterward, we will trace or draw out a painting to work on together.
• Sunday: Continue developing and painting the piece started on Saturday. For those who choose, an additional second sketch and new demonstrations will be available to work from.

Supplies & Logistics

• Lunch: Please bring your own lunch each day.
• Early Setup Help: If you are a beginner or need assistance setting up your palette and supplies, please arrive early at 9:15 am on Friday morning.
• Beginners: Be sure to bring whatever “stuff from home” and miscellaneous supplies you already have. I will have professional-grade paints, paper, palettes, and brushes available for purchase at the workshop.
• Pre-Workshop Preparation: Please watch this free, highly informative 20-minute video all about art supplies, packed with helpful hints before you arrive. You can find this and other free painting videos under the workshop section of my website: Watercolor 

• Stay Inspired! You are cordially invited to sign up for Ellen Jean Diederich’s weekly blog, “Painting of the Week”. Each entry shares the unique story behind a painting, an expert painting tip, and updates on upcoming events and specials. Visit www.givinity.com/blog and sign up at the bottom of the page.

Watch my video here on givinity.com search Watercolor Workshop Supplies and Tips