Megan Swoyer
Watercolor Artist
Sign up for a Class
Most of my beginner and intermediate classes are two hours long and we typically cover a few fun techniques.
The classes are generally for students ages 14 and up.
I teach both in-person and online.
Once you sign up for a class and process the invoice (pay) I will send you an inspiration photo, supply list, painting inspiration (usually), and sketch inspiration. See current classes below and how to sign up. Times below are Eastern Standard Time.
Online watercolor classes are $30 per person. Power Hour* classes (one hour) are $15 per person. Private online watercolor classes (two hours) are $55 per person. Various facilities for on-location classes charge different rates depending on their format. You typically receive inspiration photo, pre-class directions, post-class step-by-step, photo, and more. Also, can record per request.
FREE! Students who have taken more than six classes with me, please let me know when your birthday is, as you will receive a free class to celebrate!
FREE! Students who accumulate 9 classes that were full price will get a 10th class free! Two $15/power hour classes count as one full price class.
“Megan is a wonderful teacher. My first class with her was also my first time painting in any medium. I joined on a whim because I wanted the challenge of learning something new, and painting is not something that comes naturally to me. Because of Megan’s encouragement, however, I left that first class feeling accomplished and inspired, eager to learn more. She has a special gift for helping everyone find their inner artist. I have now taken close to 20 of her classes — online and in person — and have always found them to be well-prepared with a good balance between having the freedom to just paint and being coached in a new skill or technique. I recommend her classes to all my friends! —Cynthia
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“Megan is very kind, patient, and attentive. She always makes sure to answer your questions and is very warm and willing to take the extra step with you when you’re having a little trouble understanding an idea or concept. It is well worth your time and effort to take classes from Megan!” — Nancy
Although I appreciate art I would never have considered myself an artist. However, when I retired I began taking Megan’s online watercolor classes. From my first class I was able to follow Megan’s comfortable step-by-step teaching style and create my own art! I learn new techniques, create colors and am the lucky recipient of Megan’s experience and approach to novice painters. And Megan makes it all fun! I recommend highly!” — Alice
”I have taken a number of Megan’s watercolor classes both in person and online. She is a wonderful and engaging teacher, always making her students feel like artists - even if they are first-time painters! Megan encourages creativity and is always ready with lots of positive comments regarding our artwork. Her classes are not only about art and various techniques, but sharing her knowledge of the subject we are painting whether it be bird, flower ,or plant, etc. All levels of experience are welcome and inspired by Megan . Most of all, her classes are fun! Time flies when taking her classes. I highly recommend her classes.” — Sue
”Megan is a very talented artist and teacher. Her love of painting and teaching shines through every one of her classes. She is able to teach painting techniques in a very engaging manner through example and encouragement. Her style of teaching makes her students feel relaxed with the painting process and ultimately the students are able to create something they are proud of. I’ve taken many of her classes and have enjoyed every one.” — Laura
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Around Michigan
Classes Summer 2025!
I’ve enjoyed visiting northern Michigan to teach watercolor painting, including subjects that range from monarchs to wildflower bouquets.
For 2025, I’m continuing to explore northern Michigan’s beauty and create scenes/vignettes and/or florals inspired by the stunning state.
COMING UP: I’m excited to announce that I’ll be teaching watercolor classes at the CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF ARTS July 31 from 10-1 p.m. I’ll also be teaching at the BOYNE ARTS CENTER, Boyne City, Aug. 1, from 9:30-noon. You can sign up at the Circle of Arts and Boyne Arts Center websites, charlevoixcircle.org and boynearts.org.
Also, on Aug. 13 and Aug. 14, I’ll be leading classes at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island (these classes are open to the public; you do not need to be a guest to attend classes). You can sign up for the Mission Point classes under the “experiences” tab on the resort’s website — missionpoint.com (will be posted mid-June).
I’ll also be at the Mackinaw City Area Arts Council, AUGUST 26, 2025 AROUND 6 PM.; AND AT WATERCOLOR CAFE AUGUST 27 AND AUGUST 28, 2025, BEGINNING AT 5:30-ISH. THESE CLASSES ARE POSTED AT the MACKINAW CITY AREA ARTS COUNCIL AND THE WATERCOLOR CAFE, MACKINAC ISLAND WEBSITES.
Don’t wait! These classes often sell out.
Email me if questions at megan@waterloogroup.com.
“Power Hour: Mackinac Lilac Fest/Lilac Dreams”
June 8, 3-4 p.m., on Zoom, $15.
Get out your lavenders, lilacs, violets, and purples (and touches of blues) and yes, lots of greens for this fun, splashy lilac class just in time for the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival. Whether you’re on the island or not, this is a great class to get in vintage lilac spirit, celebrating our gorgeous state and its centuries’ old lilacs!
This class is great for all levels of watercolorists! No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Bluebird Duet”
June 11, 2025, 5:30-7:30 P.M., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Rd., Troy
A pair of sweet birdies will land on your watercolor paper as you focus on their pretty shades of blues and browns and create an astonishing mark-making backdrop, too. This class is open to all levels. We always go step-by-step. All supplies are provided.
To register for this fun class, please visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Or call 248-524-3570.
“Power Hour: Clematis A La Painterly”
June 13, 4:30-5:30 EST, on Zoom, $15
The essence of a unique clematis variety is captured in this class, where we’ll show a big bloom, a bud, some leaves and some tendrils. I spotted this beauty at Auburn Oaks in Auburn Hills, MI.
Ethereal, scrumptiously-colored and oh-so-summery is what we’re after in this fast, 60-minute class where we won’t overthink a thing!
All levels welcome. Let me know if you have questions about supplies.
No drawing skills needed!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Art-Journaling through Summer”
June 17 and 24; July 15 and 22; and August. 5, 2025, 6-7 p.m. ON ZOOM
$15/per journaling class. Sign up for just a few or all. It’s recommended you participate in at least three to get into a flow.
ONE HOUR TO DE-STRESS AND BE WITH LIKE-MINDED CREATIVE BUFFS
Join us as we embark with pen and brush on a watercolor painting “trip” that takes us to whatever moves us, all on ZOOM!
NO DRAWING OR PAINTING SKILSS REQUIRED! Put your heart and soul on paper! Observe and record what moves you and you’ll uncover inspiration for gratefulness. Learn tips about how to express your individuality through a collage of color, words, shapes, ideas, from your fascination with geometric shapes and nature’s beauty to philosophies by which you want to live. Everything that we choose to see, study, or sense that we truly want to observe defines our soul and stirs our heart. Let’s put that in a special journal.
Each online journaling class is about one hour and students’ work is done between classes
This loose-format hour is sure to de-stress you and put you in the moment as we observe our relationship with a subject — with pen, paint brush, and pretty colors. At each session, I will demonstrate a journaling technique and then we will share (optional) our works from a previous class. We’ll practice writing (optional, can just be a recording of observation, date, etc.) a passage, poem, note, expression that pairs with our art. Each class ends with a homework assignment that you can do for the next class or if you’re not in the next class, a future class.
Once you sign up, I will suggest a few journals (and other simple supplies) for purchase at various local shops or online.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive an easy homework assignment to prep you for the first class, and you’ll receive Zoom login info.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Monarch & Milkweed”
June 18, 2025, 5:30-7:30 P.M., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattle Rd., Troy
This quintessential Michigan sight (as more and more areas are left wild, and boy, to monarch butterflies appreciate that!) is a fun topic for nature lovers in this watercolor class.
We always goes step-by-step. Open to all levels! All supplies are provided.
To register for this fun class, please visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Or call 248-524-3570.
“Pinot, Paint & Pizza!”
June 25, 2025, 5:30-8 P.M., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Rd., Troy
CHEERS TO CREATIVITY! We’ll sip wines, savor treats, and create a pretty Zinnia painting as I lead students down a garden path to focus on a singular large zinnia bloom and lots of intriguing leaves. This class is open to all levels and we always goes step-by-step. All supplies are provided.
To register for this fun class, please visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Or call 248-524-3570.
“Power Hour: Red-White-and-Blue”
June 30, 4:30 PM, EST, on Zoom, $15
It’s the Fourth of July in a flower pot, exuding a fireworks vibe! We’ll surely get into the Fourth of July spirit as we bring out our pretty paints and create this painterly pot of patriotism!
This watercolor class runs for just 60 minutes — there’s no overthinking as we splash on colors and let the magic of watercolor happen.
Great for all levels and no drawing skills required.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as an inspiration photo.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
Marsh Series: Landscapes (and a bird)
July 10 and July 17, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m., EST (part 1 features two paintings (top left and top right); part 2 features two paintings (bottom left and bottom right). Each class (July 10 and 17) is a 90-minute class). You can sign up for one or both. Each class is $25. ON ZOOM
We are looking at marshlands from the midwest to the northeast and beyond. This class focuses on blocks of color, timing, and a bit of detail work. The American Oyster Catcher will have us working on wet-into-dry, and a more intuitive background.
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Umbrella Days”
July 14, 2025, 4-5:30 PM EST, on Zoom, $25
We’re going to paint a splendid Lake Huron scene (complete with a cute Great Lakes Gull), as seen from a spot along the coast. This fun workshop is for all levels and runs for 90 minutes.
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Power Hour: Summer’s Tiny Bouquet”
July 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m., EST, on Zoom, $15
This exquisite little bouquet of white roses, purple something or others (what do you want them to be?) and light blue hydrangea is such eye candy, I couldn’t help but paint it. That little ribbon/bow is the icing on the cake! We’ll whip through this and not over think it, but always go step by step.
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
Marsh Series: Flower Flow
July 24 and July 25, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m., EST, ON ZOOM
Part 1 features two paintings (top paintings); part 2 features two or three paintings (bottom paintings). Each class (July 24 and 25) is a 90-minute class). You can sign up for one or both. Each class is $25. Subjects range from forget-me-nots to wild lake iris to violets to wild geranium.
We are looking at marshland flowers, and this class focuses on shapes and values.
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Happy Rooster & Summer Market Bouquet: two paintings”
July 31, 2025, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Charlevoix Circle of Arts, 109 Clinton St., Charlevoix, MI.
I’m so excited to return to the Circle to paint with vacationers and residents of the Charlevoix region! In this watercolor-for-all-levels class we’ll create two paintings, two different sizes. We’ll use wet-into-wet techniques and wet-into-dry, and use some unique household tools, beyond the paint brush!
To register for this class or for a supply list, visit charlevoixcircle.org by clicking here. It may not be up for a few weeks, but will be soon. Or call (231) 547-3554. I can also bring supplies to use for students ($10 charge/cash at day of workshop), if you contact me five days ahead of class.
If you’re not from the region, this is a gorgeous Great Lakes area of the state so you may want to book the class and a hotel to take in the sights and make it a getaway. Click here for lodging info.
“Glorious Geraniums”
Aug. 1, 2025, 9:30 A.M.-noon, Boyne Arts Center, 1 Water St. Ste. 203, Boyne City, MI.
Traditional watercolor techniques meet a few unique methods to create this vibrant pot of pink geraniums. We’ll head down a path of fun learning and new explorations that lead to a painterly, loose, head-turning pot o’ beauty! All-levels watercolorists welcome. No drawing skills required.
To register for this workshop, call the Boyne Arts Center at (231) 622-2073 or click HERE. Don’t wait! My workshop at this fabulous facility sold out last year. (Beyond workshops, there are lots of great shopping opportunities and a neat gallery at the Boyne Arts Center.)
“Hibiscus Near Yellow Cottage”
Aug. 6, 2025, 5:30-7:30 P.M., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Rd., Troy
A big, bright hibiscus takes center stage in this watercolor class, open to all levels. I’ll lead students through various techniques to capture the bloom, its supporting cast of leaves and branches, and a lovely yellow cottage tucked into the background.
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required. All supplies included for your use!
To register for this fun class, please visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Or call 248-524-3570.
Marsh Series: Birds
Aug. 17 and/or 20. Sign up for one or both.
Aug. 17, 3-4:30 p.m. EST, on Zoom. Trumpeter Swan and Common Yellowthroat. $25
Aug 20, 4:30-5:30 p.m. EST, on Zoom. Great Egret. $15 (power hour)
This is another fun watercolor Marsh Series installment, and this time the focus is on the sweetest of birds! I’d like students to have watercolor pencils for this (optional but will add texture, and they’re fun to use) as well as, of course, watercolor paints. (I like to use Derwent Inktense pencils but any watercolor pencil set is fine).
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Power Hour: Ford House Rose
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Aug. 21, 2025, 3-4 p.m. EST, on Zoom!
My goodness, it looks difficult to paint a rose, but it’s not! We’ll catch all the rose-y nuances in this fast 60-minute class. You can choose the strengh of your values if you wish it to be brighter than the example shown. The idea is to create lots of light, med, dark values, pay attention to shapes, and have fun!
This class is for all levels watercolorists. We go step by step and no expert drawing skills are required!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
“Magnificent Merganser”
Aug. 26, around 6 p.m., Mackinaw City Area Arts Council, Mackinaw City
I can’t wait to teach this class at the neat Women’s Club in Mackinaw City. Here, students will learn the nuances of the pretty merganser. We’ll go wet-into-wet and wet-into-dry for this process and will let a background magically come to life. Each painting will look different as the paint and water do their magic. An intuitive background is so much fun to orchestrate!
All supplies are provided for your use.
To register for this class, call 231-412-2787.
“Geranium Pop!”
Aug. 27, 2025, 5:30 PM, Watercolor Cafe, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Ahhhh Mackinac! So many yellow buildings and bright, pretty geraniums … how to paint them all? Let’s tackle at least one vignette in this fun watercolor workshop, at the charming Watercolor Cafe on Mackinac Island!
All supplies are provided. No drawing skills needed! We always go step-by-step — this workshop is for all levels watercolorists, from newbies to seasoned!
To register, click here in late April/early May. You can also call the cafe in early May at (906) 262-0642. Even if you can’t register until April or May, you may want to book your room soon as rooms sell out quickly. Or book a room on the mainland (ferries leave the island following class). For more info. on rooms, click HERE.
If you have questions, message me through this website’s contact page.
“Hollyhock Heaven”
Aug. 28, 5:30 P.M. EST, Watercolor Cafe, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Ahhhh Mackinac! So many flowers, how to paint them all? Let’s start with this vibrant patch of hollyhocks against a white fence. This watercolor workshop will be held at the charming Watercolor Cafe on Mackinac Island!
All supplies are provided. We always go step-by-step — this workshop is for all levels of watercolorists, from newbies to seasoned!
To register, click here in late April/early May. You can also call the cafe in early May at (906) 262-0642. Even if you can’t register until April or May, you may want to book your room soon as rooms sell out quickly. Or book a room on the mainland (ferries leave the island following class). For more info. on rooms, click HERE.
If you have questions, message me through this website’s contact page.
“Inspiration Charles Reid”
Sept. 4, 11, and 18, 4:30-6:30 p.m. EST, on Zoom. Sign up for one, two, or all three. $30/each.
Some watercolor painting experience is helpful.
FINALLY!!!!!
I’ve been contemplating these classes for a couple years now and have been granted permission to teach these workshops and use the master of watercolor’s paintings, articles, and books for inspiration.
American watercolorist Charles Reid’s style will be discussed and studied as we paint our way through several paintings in various sizes.
My paintings shown here are my interpretation of his works after reading one of his books and several articles on him over the years.
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
Cosmos & Color Creations
Sept. 7, 3-4:30 PM EST, $25, on Zoom
Have you noticed that some colors are difficult to work with? We’ll share some tips for creating great colors and at the same time turn out a gorgeous cosmos painting. This watercolor workshop is for all levels! No expert drawing skills required!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
“Beaucoup Bouquet”
TBD
For all levels! A vivid and bright bouquet comes to life on paper with impressionistic strokes and an enticing background in this watercolor workshop that follows a step-by-step process.
Valentine’s Birdies
TBD
These cute little birds (Junco and Nuthatch) might be singing a love song! Who knows? In this watercolor workshop for all levels, we’ll focus on creating texture, depth, and charm/personality aplenty with various techniques and paint colors. We always go step by step.
“Crane!”
TBD on Zoom
For all levels! We’re painting the coolest sandhill crane.
“Cherry Season”
TBD
Studies of cherries will take center stage in this class, which is great for beginners and all levels. It’s a nod to Michigan’s own cherries and the upcoming Cherry Festival! We’’ll attempt a couple works as we ponder values, reflections, branch texture, and more!
We always go step-by-step.
“Summer Studies: Beach Observations”
Date TBD
For all levels! A look at nature along a Great Lakes Coast. We have some milkweed and a pretty feather to observe for this class. What background colors will make these sing? How to meld sand and shore? Many topics will be covered in this fun, summery study!
We always go step-by-step.
Nuthatch Nuance
TBD, on Zoom
The nuthatch sticks around in our Michigan backyards throughout the chilly seasons, and we’re glad because painters can get inspired throughout the year. A few berries to keep him happy is a must and adds brilliance to this bird portrait. We’ll also add some snow and perhaps brown up our leaves a bit (optional).
All levels of watercolor painters welcome! We go step-by-step.
If you would like to sign up, learn more, or need a simple beginner supply kit, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info., supply info., inspiration photos, and inspiration copy of the painting.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Pansies & Blanket Flowers”
TBD, on Zoom
For all levels! These richly hued flowers that color early-autumn gardens come to life with bold purples and violets and bright, warm yellows. Painters will paint wet-into-wet and wet-into-dry to create these vivid plants.A watery, free-flowing background complements the pansies!
“African Violet Afternoon”
TBD 2025, 4:30 PM EST,
We’ll mix purples and blues to get a lovely violet that pops with vibrancy and joy. Lots of verdant leaves encircle this beauty, which was spotted at a nursery in January. Soft background colors sing with impressionistic vibes.
No drawing skills required for this all-levels watercolor class. We always go step-by-step.
“Lilac Impressions”
TBD
We can dream about — or paint — lilacs now, right? They may be about three months or so away, but let’s start channeling them in a beautiful watercolor painting! How cool is it when a vase complements its inhabitants? Purple lilacs and verdant green foliage add zest to this vignette, replete with a vase featuring purple and green tones as well!
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required. All supplies included for your use!
T
“Power Hour: Piping Plover”
TBD
This is the cute piping plover, which has been observed and studied a lot recently! The fresh, watery shore’s edge complements the birds watery appeal, as we use a lot of wet-into-wet for this style. The background in this little vignette-style painting is purely intuitive and each participant’s painting is guaranteed to look different from the others!
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation/supply details.
“Pot O’ Geraniums”
TBD on Zoom
We’ll paint a pot full of bright-red geraniums against a Mackinac Island backdrop. Students will learn about wet-into-wet techniques as well as wet-into-dry tips. An impressionistic feel is the goal for these beautiful and iconic Mackinac flowers. All levels are welcome.
We always go step-by-step.
“Yellow House on Mackinac”
TBD
Don’t you love old houses? They’re so fun to paint. There’s something about their colors, their unevenness, their quirks. In this watercolor workshop, we’re going to paint this beauty while focusing on how to capture ”bright” with less painting and more light! No drawing skills required.
This is for all levels! We always go step-by-step. If you’d like, you can change the color of the flowers, the house, etc. to suit your taste!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
“Just Peachy!”
TBD 2025
For all levels! It's so much fun to capture fruit in watercolor, especially as it's growing. Students will enjoy using peachy colors and lots of water on these round fruits and then enhancing the hues with rich green leaves, stems, and textured branches. Lots of fun techniques will be explored, including lost edges and shading.
All supplies provided and all levels of watercolor painters welcome! We go step-by-step.
To register for this fun class, please visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Or call 248-524-3570. These classes sell out quickly, so don’t hesitate!
“Birdhouses Galore”
TBD 2025
Isn’t this the cutest little vignette? Love all those colorful birdhouses. We’ll focus on how to paint a white structure, along with cast shadows, plus adding and eliminating whatever we’d like to make a strong composition.
It helps to have a little bit of experience with watercolor. We do go step-by-step and no drawing experience is required.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos, and more!
“Classy Clematis”
TBD
A pop of purple is glorious and is always a sight for sore eyes! We’ll mix up a beautiful color of purples and blues — and use wet-into-wet techniques — to create this watercolor— a flowy, stunning beauty.
“Pure Michigan Lighthouse”
TBD 2025
Located in Northeast Michigan, Tawas Point Lighthouse is a beauty and was recently again restored to its former glory. Painters will capture the grasses, trees, and marsh areas that surround it, as well as a glimpse of the stately beauty with pretty watercolor paints and unique techniques.
All supplies provided and all levels of watercolor painters welcome! We go step-by-step.
To register for this fun class, please visit troyhistoricvillage.org. Or call 248-524-3570. These classes sell out quickly, so don’t hesitate!
“Fall Pumpkin Patch”
TBD
Layers or yellows, oranges, greens, and you name it will be the focus of this fun painting. Well even play with a bit of purple to make the oranges pop!
“Whimsical Wren”
tbd 4:30 EST, on Zoom
This cute little wren sits atop a textured nest with hints of surprising colors and energetic strokes. Lots of techniques will be used to provide this wren with a cheerful backdrop and home!
All levels are welcome. No drawing skills are needed!
We always go step-by-step.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review before class, as well as inspiration photos. I always send out a follow-up document so that if you’d like you can follow the steps you learned and try it again!
“Home for Thanksgiving”
TBD,
Painters will “light the fire, hang a magnolia wreath, and open the door” in this pretty fall farmhouse vignette that welcomes the season.
“The Chicken” & “The Wren!”
TBD
“Cockadoodle Tweet!” Let’s start the month of December with two painterly paintings in watercolor. Ink is optional, too.
First, participants of all levels will warm up with a cute lil Carolina Wren painting, and then jump into Ms. Chicken’s domain. We’ll learn about creating personality in the animal/bird world, and easy-peasy backgrounds that make your star sing!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“TulipTime!”
Ahhh, the first ZOOM tulip lesson of the season! I can’t wait to dive into this and I know workshop participants will enjoy painting these pretty tulips (make them the color of your choice!). We’ll cover values for all those leaves, sunlight and shadow, and more as we delve into this little vignette, spotted at a regional nursery this year. We might even add a background (optional)!
We always go step-by-step, and this class is for all levels, even those who’ve never painted. I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Power Hour: May Walk”
TBD
Shown here is the first and second stage of an impressionistic painting featuring a white wooden fence and branches full of flowering crabapples on a May day. We’ll do the whole painting in this class.
For 60 minutes, relax, restore, and rejuvenate with watercolor paint and water! We’ll go step by step to create a small, charming spring-day scene. This class is for all levels and the focus is on painterly, expressive marks and brushstrokes that are sure to calm nerves and take the stress out of your day (aka, lots of water will be used as well as expressionistic strokes!). No drawing skills required!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Bird ‘n’ Bloom”
TBD
And here we go into the season of flowers and happy birds! We’ll use loose techniques and a bit of tightening up as we create this pretty bird and bright sunflower. What a lovely perch he has! Be ready to splash and spatter and plop, too!
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Bouquet POP!”
TBD
We’re going to bring a beautiful bouquet to life in watercolor on paper using lush purples and pinks, springy-greens, and sunny-side-up yellows, all packed into an ethereal glass jar! Much of the painting is wet-into-wet technique, plus a fun surprise technique will be revealed for the spiky purple blooms. Various green foliage adds to the pretty ensemble, which pops with beauty, including everything from small, delicate blooms to a large main star.
“Tufted Tweet”
TBD
For 60 minutes, relax, restore, and rejuvenate with watercolor paint and water! We’ll go step by step to create a small, charming Tufted Titmouse among berries (the image shown here shows just the first few steps, but we will create a full painting!). This class is for all levels and the focus is on painterly, expressive marks and brushstrokes that are sure to calm nerves and take the stress out of your day (aka, lots of water will be used as well as expressionistic strokes!).
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Robin’s Rest”
DATE TBD
Here we feature a lovely, cheerful robin and empty branches with lots of texture.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Let’s Help California” Poppy Workshop
DONE
Jan. 19, 2024 1-2 p.m. EST, on Zoom.
Pasadena, California Humane has taken in hundreds of animals from the Eaton Fire. They are in desperate need of monetary donations to help purchase medical supplies and other resources as they assist burned and injured animals coming to the shelter. They’re helping as quickly as they can.
This fun workshop is a fundraiser for the facility. If you’d like to donate for this workshop as little as $10, it will help! Just let me know by clicking below if you’d like to attend the workshop and what your donation is. I’ll donate the total amount from workshop attendees to the organization after our class Jan. 19.
This is for all levels! We’ll go step by step and it will be lots of fun! I painted this poppy in California just two weeks ago! We’ll paint something similar.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photo, and more!
“Go, Flamingo!”
TBD
Even if we can’t quite get to hot weather right now, we can dream about them and think pink, pink, pink, as in a dashing flamingo wading in exotic, rich-blue waters.
Join us as we bring a flamingo to life with various pink tones and lots of cool techniques!
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required.
“Sturgeon Point Light”
TBD on Zoom
Completed in 1870, the Sturgeon Point Light Station on Lake Huron is quite a charming facility. Known as a historic example of a Cape Cod-style Great Lakes lighthouse, this little beamer is a beauty. Join me as we capture its snappy red trim, verdant surroundings, and more with watercolor paint and unique techniques.
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required. All supplies included for your use!
“Grand Porch View”
TBD
In this fun workshop, we can start dreaming of warmer weather and a visit to charming Mackinac Island, MI. Students of all levels will learn how to paint the quintessential blooming red geraniums on the Grand Hotel’s porch as well as a stunning panoramic vista beyond, including a simple tree line, vast blue waters, and the ever-so-quaint Round Island lighthouse. A loose, impressionistic feel is the goal for this fun workshop!
All levels watercolor students are welcome to this workshop.
“Zinnia Pop”
TBD
Relax, restore, and rejuvenate with watercolor paint and water! We’ll go step by step to create a bright Zinnia. This class is for all levels!
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more
“Chickadee Springs”
TBD
An impressionistic painting featuring a sweet little chickadee is on tap for this fun watercolor workshop for all levels. Olives, browns, gorgeous blues, tans, and blacks mingle on paper with other techniques and a few secrets to create a textural, springy mood!
We’ll go step by step to create a charming painting! This class’ focus is on painterly, expressive marks and brushstrokes. No drawing skills required!
“Intuitive Watercolor: Sandhill Crane”
TBD
We’ll paint a gorgeous sandhill crane in this workshop and then move to the background where it’ll be an intuitive wonderland of colors, brush strokes and mark-making to see what appears for this pretty bird’s environs.
We’ll go step by step to create a beautiful painting! This class’ focus is on painterly, expressive marks and brushstrokes. No drawing skills required!
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Zinnia Zest!”
TBD, Zoom
We’re breaking out a few watercolor pencils (optional) for this vibrant vignette, which is exactly what our winter-weary eyes need to focus on this time of year in Michigan. Pinks and oranges, plus a vivid backdrop will pop as we mix pencils with paints.
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required. All supplies included for your use!
“Tawas Point Lighthouse”
TBD,
Caught from the backside with my camera one late summer, I love how the towering sentinel looks amid all those trees and the come-and-go marsh area A painterly mix of summer shades, white trees, hardwoods, and evergreens keep this beauty company and we’ll capture it all!
This class is for all levels. And it’s about painting loosely to see what types of a landscape, which in the foreground is ever-changing, we’ll get!
No drawing skills needed!
If you would like to sign up or learn more …
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Tulips & Lilacs”
TBD
Just in from the garden, this bouquet of mingling beauty conveys pure spring! Students of all levels will learn various tulip techniques and easy-as-pie brush strokes for vibrant lilacs.
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required. All supplies included for your use!
“Kitty & Dog”
TBD, On Zoom
With many requests to learn how to paint more animals and pets, watercolor artist and teacher Megan will show students of all levels how she creates her furry friends in a step-by-step process. Students are welcome to bring photos of their pets, too, for painting pointers. Megan suggests students take a photo of their pet and print it out on a full sheet of paper so you can see subtleties, form, and values.
We’ll go step by step in this special class that focuses on your favorite furry friends!
Beginners Class: “Learn to Paint with Watercolors”
TBD 2025 at 5 p.m. EST. ON ZOOM. You can sign up for one, two or all three. Each Class is Different. $30 per class.
With many folks asking to learn watercolor basics or to review the foundations of watercolor, I’m offering a three-class series that will showcase various techniques. If you took the earlier beginner class series (three classes in each series) you can continue and learn even more in this February/March session. EACH CLASS COVERS DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES AND NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED. We’ll cover wet-into-wet, wet-into-dry, found edges, lost edges, and intriguing mark-making.
Each class will run up to two hours. Each class is $30. The series is $90.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation/supply details.
“Signs of Spring: House Sparrow & Forsythia”
TBD
This watercolor workshop showcases a sweet House Sparrow that’s happily soaking up the beauty of spring forsythia, which is just starting to bloom.
This class is for all levels. It’s about painting loosely and also letting colors pour for a unique and springy background.
No drawing skills needed!
If you would like to sign up or learn more, click here to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Power Hour: Blanket Flower”
TBD
Take an hour to relax, restore, rejoice as we paint the pretty blanket flower. These 60-minute classes are focused on not overthinking our subjects. We’re creating painterly, pretty, vignettes in nature!
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Power Hour: Hibiscus Hurrah!”
TBD
Take an hour to relax, restore, rejoice as we paint these beautiful hibiscus and white picket fence. Micron Ink pen is optional! These 60-minute classes are focused on not overthinking our subjects. We’re creating painterly, pretty, vignettes in nature!
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more, click “here” to send me a message or email me at megan@waterloogroup.com. Once you sign up, you’ll receive Zoom login info. and preparation details to review/complete before class, as well as inspiration photos.
I always follow up with an emailed document with step-by-step directions, observations, and more. Recordings are often available, upon request.
“Northern Michigan Lighthouse”
TBD ZOOM
A favorite Michigan lighthouse comes to life on paper when students of all levels create this guardian of the Great Lakes. Step-by-step is the name of the game; wet and dry techniques will be applied.
We always go step-by-step. No drawing skills required.
“Lavender Pots!”
TBD
Take an hour to relax, restore, rejoice as we paint these charming lavender pots, meaning pots and flowers are both lavender! These 60-minute classes are focused on not overthinking our subjects. We’re creating painterly, pretty, vignettes that showcase some of watercolor’s most appealing attributes — flow, free, transparent!
No drawing skills required.
“Vintage Lilacs”
TBD
We’re bringing the blooms of a very old lilac tree to life in this loose vignette brimming with blues, violets, lavenders, and springy greens!
This is a great class for beginners and those of all levels. Clear glass? No problem. Impressionistic blooms? No problem. Rich green leaves? Oh, yes!
If you would like to sign up or learn more,
“Poppy Pop!”
The essence of a poppy is captured in this class, where we’ll show a bud and a bloom and the interesting leaves that are so tell-tale of a poppy!
Ethereal, sunny, and oh-so-summery is what we’re after in this fast, 60-minute class where we won’t overthink a thing!
All levels welcome. Let me know if you have questions about supplies.
No drawing skills needed!
“Cheery Bluebird”
TBD
Oh, those Blues!
Relax, restore, and rejuvenate with watercolor paint and water! We’ll go step by step to create a lovely, cheerful bluebird among an intriguing backdrop. This class is for all levels and the focus is on painterly, expressive marks and brushstrokes.
No drawing skills required. If you would like to sign up or learn more,