The perfect introduction to the beauty of watercolour painting, for those who have always wanted to learn, but didn’t know where to start. Suitable for beginners or those wanting to add to their knowledge and learn different techniques that Vicki uses in her style of watercolour painting.

As an introductory course, this course will take you step-by-step through the fundamentals of painting in watercolour. You will learn various techniques that can be used in watercolour, from loose, organic painting to a more structured style in a variety of themes such as landscapes, seascapes, botanicals and still lifes.

You will learn how to prepare and use your materials for painting. You will be guided through understanding the colours, how to mix your colours and how to apply your watercolour paint. You will be taught how to plan your painting, how to select your themes and how to execute them. This course is suitable for the complete beginner, but also for those wanting to enhance their current skills by learning techniques that may be different to what they already know. You will be encouraged and supported to find your own style. Wherever your skills lie, this course will help build confidence as a painter in this medium in a supportive and nuturing environment.

Course Outline:

• Learning various techniques of watercolour including painting with ink.
• Guidance to help you gain confidence in your ability and develop your own style.
• Understanding depth, contrast and light.
• Learning how to find the right subject and developing ideas.
• Understanding the fundamentals of watercolour painting and the materials required.

Learning Outcomes:

• Students will learn the fundamentals and characteristics of painting in watercolour and use these skills to create their watercolour painting.
• Students will learn to love and appreciate the organic nature of this medium and not fear it.
• Discover a variety of watercolour techniques, painting in loose, fluid and organic way as well as fine detailed, the use of pen and ink, as well as painting with a limited palette.
• Learn how to plan their painting, to achieve the desired outcome.
• Learn to mix and create colours from a minimal colour palette
• Be supported and encouraged to develop their own style of watercolour that suits them, through my flexible approach.
• Students will learn about the materials used to create a watercolour, how to care for their materials and understanding paper weights and texture.
• Painting without judgement, enjoying the process and accepting what the brush and paint will give you.

What to bring:

• A selection of watercolour brushes preferably Windsor & Newton (good quality brushes are essential and there is a great range at Eckersley’s) Recommended brush sizes to get: Number 8 round, number 6 round number 5 round and number 0 round.
• Small palette of Windsor & Newton watercolour ‘Windsor & Newton Cotman Watercolour Half Pan Sketchers’ Pocket Box'. Good quality paints are very important, and this is an investment that will see you through many years.
• A3 watercolour pad – Cold pressed watercolour medium grain pad 300gsm 100% Cotton recommended brands are Arches/ Canson Fabriano
• HB pencils and good eraser
• Black Quink ink – (office works)
• Masking tape, low adhesiveness such as blue masking tape.
• Watercolour palette – preferably with large flat mixing areas.
• A sealed timber board to work on, larger than A4 (Boards can be supplied by tutor if required).

Art Supplies Discount:

As a bonus for learning Art with SGSCC, all enrolled students are entitled to a generous 10% discount off the purchase of art supplies when they shop in-store at Eckersley’s Art & Craft, Taren Point!
View Eckersley's Website for product ideas.

About the Tutor:

I am Vicki — artist, art educator, and art therapist behind Vicki Peck Art.

Art has always been part of my life, but what was once a personal passion has grown into a full and evolving creative career. Today, I spend my days creating my own work, teaching across a range of settings, and supporting others to explore their creativity in a way that feels accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful.

I run weekly art classes for children, teens, and adults, offer private tuition from my home studio, teach at a local college – SGSCC, and facilitate art therapy sessions within the community. I also host workshops and paint & sip events throughout the year.

My approach is grounded in the belief that art is for everyone — not just those who think they’re “good at it.” Whether someone is picking up a pencil for the first time, returning to creativity after years away, or using art as a way to process and heal, my role is to create a space where they feel supported, capable, and inspired.

Originally from South Africa, I moved to Australia in 2005 after spending time in the UK. My creative path has taken a few turns along the way, but it has always led me back here — to building a life centred around art, connection, and community.

I’m incredibly grateful to do this work, and to the people who continue to support and grow alongside me.

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.