Introduction to Gouache: Painting the Colorado Landscape

Introduction to Gouache: Painting the Colorado Landscape

Instructor: Katy Betz

Start Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026

Schedule: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10:00am- 3:00pm

Cost: Member $95 / Friend & Non-Member $135

Skill Level: All Levels

Location: Foothills Art Center – Creative Campus, 809 15th St  

Course Description:

Discover the versatility and vibrant color of gouache while painting landscapes inspired by Colorado’s mountains, skies, and open spaces. Often described as abridge between watercolor and acrylic, gouache is an approachable and forgiving medium that offers rich color and expressive possibilities. Through demonstrations, guided exercises, and individualized instruction, students will learn the fundamentals of gouache painting while creating a finished landscape painting.

Techniques

• Introduction to gouache materials and paint handling
• Color mixing and palette organization
• Brushwork and mark-making
• Simplifying landscape subjects into shapes
• Atmospheric perspective
• Painting skies, clouds, trees, and landforms
• Layering and opaque painting techniques
• Finishing and refining a landscape painting

Supplies:

Assorted watercolor or mixed-media brushes

Pencil and eraser

Materials fee:

$25

Artist Bio

Katy Betz is an artist, illustrator, and art educator with more than 15 years of teaching experience. She has taught at colleges and various art programs, helping students of all skill levels build confidence while developing strong artistic foundations. Alongside her teaching, she maintains an active studio practice centered on landscape painting and nature inspired illustration.

Through her YouTube channel, online courses, and educational workbooks, Katy encourages artists to slow down, observe deeply, and cultivate a sense of wonder through the creative process. Her workshops combine practical instruction with an encouraging, curiosity driven approach that makes art both approachable and meaningful.

Contact: For any questions, please email Nathaniel Drake at nathaniel@foothillsartcenter.org.

***To receive the Member / Open Studio rate – please “login” the upper right- hand corner of this page with the email associated with your membership***

Please Note: Classes and workshops may be cancelled if enrollment minimums are not reached. You will be notified by telephone at least 3 days prior to the scheduled start date should cancellation become necessary.