Painting by Instructor Sonja Hutchinson
Thursday, June 4, 2026, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
$120 member/$140 non-member, includes Arboretum admission, bring-your-own supplies, see supply list
Program location: Farm at the Arb - McVay Learning Lab (in the Bee Center)
Adult 18+
Basic watercolor experience recommended
Instructor: Sonja Hutchinson, Award-winning painter and long time watercolor painting instructor
In this workshop you will build your own watercolor bouquet full of light and energy. You will use your intuition to respond to blooming color and forms initiated in your first fresh washes and gestures. Throughout the workshop, you will practice charging colors, defining edges, splattering, lifting and glazing.
In this class Sonja will help you:
- Grow your confidence in working abstractly
- Practice working with layers and textures
- Use negative painting to build up shape and form
Supplies/Equipment: Students will bring their own basic watercolor supplies to class.
- Watercolor paints
- Watercolor brushes and a mixing palette
- 3-4 sheets of 9" x 12" Watercolor paper (Arches 140# cold press works well for this)
- Water containers
- Pencil and eraser
- Your enthusiasm to flourish with florals!
Please note: A short lunch break will be provided. Please bring lunch/snacks and beverages/water bottle (limited snacks beverages are available for purchase at the Bee Center).
We recommend that you enter the Arboretum via the back gate on 82nd St, not the main entrance on Hwy 5. This is the most direct route to access the Farm at the Arb, and avoids potential delays when driving through the Arboretum.
Address: Farm at the Arb Entrance Gate
If you do wish to enter through the main Arboretum gate on Hwy 5, you can take 3-Mile Drive through the Arboretum and turn right on Peter Moe Drive to get to the Myers Education Center (this route may take an additional 15-20 minutes, so please plan accordingly).
Main Entry instructions:
You will receive a bar-code ticket for entry to the Arboretum in your email purchase confirmation. Your ticket is valid for entry on the day of your class. Present your ticket to the gate attendant as you enter the Arboretum. You may stay at the Arboretum after class as long as you want during our operating hours.