Live Online September 9
includes replay
In this online Workshop, Painting Ethereal Landscapes in Watercolor, you'll learn how to create atmospheric, emotion-filled scenes that feel otherworldly yet deeply personal.
Ethereal landscapes are exciting because they break free from rigid rules and realism. Instead of replicating exactly what you see, you’ll explore how to paint the feeling of a place—through soft edges, luminous washes, and subtle color transitions. Whether it's a glowing horizon, a foggy treeline, or an abstract sense of space, this course invites you to loosen up, trust your instincts, and let your inner vision guide the brush.
You’ll discover techniques for building depth and atmosphere, using negative space effectively, and capturing that elusive quality of light that gives these paintings their magic. No matter your skill level, you'll walk away with a new way of seeing and expressing the landscape—one that leans into emotion, suggestion, and serenity.
Perfect for artists looking to expand their creative voice or escape into a peaceful, meditative practice. Let go of perfection and embrace the beauty of the in-between.
Workshop date - September 9
The one-day workshop will focus on three soft landscape paintings with ample time for you to paint along and explore.
Meeting time
- 12 PM - 4 PM / New York
- 11 AM - 3 PM / Chicago
- 10 AM - 2 PM / Denver
- 9 AM - 1 PM / San Francisco
Explore Spontaneity
We begin by introducing you to essential materials and tools. You’ll see how torn paper can be used not just for collage, but as a dynamic tool to apply pigment in bold, textured shapes. The rough edge of torn paper creates organic lines and forms that mimic natural elements like trees, mountains, and clouds. It also encourages spontaneity—helping you respond to the moment rather than overthink your composition.
Capture the Essence
Learn techniques to activate the paint, allowing color to flow and blend naturally across the paper. Add atmosphere and motion to your landscapes, create luminous skies, misty forests, or distant mountains with minimal effort and maximum impact.
Interpreting the Land or Seascape
What makes these classes unique is the emphasis on freedom, fun, and expressive results—no rigid rules, just guidance to help you explore and develop your own style. You’ll learn how to see differently, simplify complex subjects, and let the paint work for you rather than against you.
Dream or Reality
Working with limited color palettes, you’ll learn how a few well-chosen colors can create harmony and depth—without getting muddy. We'll also cover how to reserve the white of the paper to preserve light and use negative space to define form.
Who this is for
If you've ever felt stuck, hesitant, or too focused on getting it "right," this class will help you let go and embrace the beauty of spontaneity.
No matter your level, if you're curious about expressive landscapes, open to play, and ready to explore watercolor in a fresh, exciting way—this class is for you. Let the landscape unfold through color, movement, and emotion.
Would you like to immerse yourself and explore ideas for your own paintings?
>> Click the link below. Includes weekly live one-hour meetings with Birgit with demonstrations, painting reviews, feedback, and Q&A (space is limited). Dates: Sept. 9-Oct. 7
About Birgit O'Connor
Status of the (NWWS) NorthWest Watercolor Society, (LWS) Lousiana Watercolor Society, (CWA) California Watercolor Society.
Top-selling books include “Watercolor in Motion,” “Paint Watercolor Flowers,” and “Watercolor Essentials.” she has also been published in over 60 other national and international publications, such as Splash, Watercolor Magazine, American Watercolor Magazine, International Artist Magazine, Australian Artist Magazine, the New York Times, SF Gate, Watercolor Magazine, Dobry Zank (Poland), and L’Art de aquarelle (France).
A featured instructor with many Art Centers and Watercolor Societies throughout the United States and Canada, and faculty member of Watercolor Live 2020, 2021, 2023. Additionally, her work has been juried into several national and international exhibitions. She has also served as a judge and juror for numerous shows, including the Transparent Watercolor Society of America. Her memberships include Cambridge Who’s Who, Who's Who in America, and Who’s Who in American Women.
You May Also Enjoy These Other Expressive Watercolor Courses
Keep the momentum going! If you enjoyed this course, consider adding one of these popular expressive watercolor classes to your collection. Each course is thoughtfully designed to help you loosen up, grow your skills, and explore your unique creative voice.
