Watercolour Workshop with Pete James
5:30 pm Friday October 30th — 4:00 pm Sunday November 1st, 2026
“Why am I painting this picture — what attracts me to this scene?”
What is this about?
The motivation to paint this picture
Composing/designing from a photo reference
The different shapes of structures and differing textures
Values
Part 1 of 3 of this Cambridge Watercolour Workshop with Pete James covers at least three paintings — the first value plan, the second image with your own palette, and then a painting executed from a reference of your own choice, again with your own palette selection.
Workshop details
This Cambridge Watercolor Workshop will be presented over five “sessions” with a separate painting/demonstration/workshop in each session.
Participants will attend all five sessions — there is a 2½ hour session Friday 30th October and 3 hour sessions each morning and afternoon on Saturday 31st October and Sunday 1st November.
Friday 30th October 5.30 pm – 8.00 pm
Saturday 31st October 9.30 am – 4.00 pm
Sunday 1st November 9.30 am – 4.00 pm
Each section of the workshop produces a demonstration painting, where participants copy using the approach and tools taught in each session. Full notes are provided.
It is anticipated artists will have some experience of watercolour painting. Participants will provide their own materials, and a full list of suggested materials and supports will be provided prior.
The workshop will be held at the Painting Place, 51 Thornton Rd, Cambridge.
“Painting into the light — Dark/Light contrasts for maximum effect”
What is this about?
Painting in layers top-to-bottom/far-to-near/light-to-dark
Painting without much drawing
Preserving the light
“Watching paint dry”
What is this about?
Different edges from different paper, brush, and paint wetness
Masking fluid
Scrubbing out and lifting
Pete James
Pete James has been painting watercolour for 25 years. He is a Watercolour New Zealand committee member, and has run workshops and plein air "paintaway" weekends for a number of years.
Registration
Fee for Pete James Cambridge Watercolour Workshop: $200 per person.
Spaces are limited. Participants will need to bring their own materials.
Registration covers all 5 sessions — Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday morning and evening.
Workshop is open to members and public.
The workshop will be held at the Painting Place, 51 Thornton Rd, Cambridge.
If you have any questions please contact us.