Using Rich Darks in Watercolor
Adult Class | Registration opens 8/4/2026 9:00 AM MDT
The power of deep rich darks can be the secret ingredient to make a painting pop and grab the viewer's attention. Learn how to create that special something that builds drama and intrigue working with color mixing for dark value and pigment/water ratios. Experiment with specific color combinations and color temperature so your darks are not boring and lifeless. Whether painting backgrounds, shadow shapes, or window panes, contrast will be crucial because without these darkest darks, light values don't sparkle. Discover how to use strong darks for depth, perspective, and to emphasize subjects. Getting darks dark will boost your artistry and sharpen your skills! Reference material provided. Introductory watercolor experience needed.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: In addition to working with color, value, shapes, and edges, students will gain an understanding of focal points and lighting effects.
WEEK 1: White House with Adirondack Chair and Dark Foliage
WEEK 2: Antique Coats Hanging Against Dark Opening
WEEK 3: Chef's Against Dark Kitchen Background
WEEK 4: Farmhouse with Dark Shadows
- Introductory watercolor experience needed.
- WATERCOLOR PALETTE WITH LID
- WATERCOLOR PAPER OR WATERCOLOR BLOCK (9” x 12” OR LARGER) 140LB COLD PRESS
- WATERCOLOR BRUSHES (#6 AND #8 ROUND, 1”- 1 1/2” FLAT)
- CADMIUM RED
- ALIZARIN CRIMSON
- CADMIUM YELLOW
- LEMON YELLOW
- YELLOW OCHRE
- BURNT SIENNA
- RAW UMBER
- OLIVE GREEN
- CERULEAN BLUE
- ULTRAMARINE BLUE
- COBALT VIOLET
- MINERAL VIOLET
- WATER CONTAINER
- SPRAY BOTTLE
- TISSUES WITHOUT LOTION OR PAPER TOWEL
Dennis Pendleton
BFA, Ohio State University Pendleton has been published in The Artist's Magazine, Southwest Art and Contemporary Artists of the American West, 5280 Magazine and Watercolor Magazine. He lectures nationally on watercolor history, watercolor techniques and cave paintings, and teaches workshops at various locations. Dennis has gallery representation through Elements 5280 Gallery in Denver and The Fechin Museum in Taos New Mexico. His work is in select collections such as the People's Republic of China, American Embassy in France, Kaiser Permanente in Louisville, Kaiser Permanente in Lone Tree, The Petroleum Club, Cherry Creek Bank, Norwest Bank, and First Bank. As well, his work is the collections of the Columbus Museum of Fine Art, A R Mitchell Museum, and Fine Art Museum at The Ohio State University. Dennis has taught at ASLD for 22 years and teaches workshops in the United States and Europe.