Mondays, April 10 - May 1, 2026 | 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM (4 sessions)

Color is the pulse of the Garden. It glows in the petals, hums in the leaves, and shifts with every passing cloud. In this 4 week in person series, we will step into that living spectrum and learn how to translate nature’s brilliance into our own sketchbooks and paintings.

Each week, we will gather inspiration from the Garden’s tropical foliage, bold blossoms, butterflies and layered landscapes to design personal color palettes rooted in observation. You will explore the foundations of color theory, build a cohesive master palette, and develop methods for layering color to create richness and clarity. We will pay special attention to mastering color in light and shadow, learning how temperature shifts, contrast, and value bring dimension and atmosphere to your work.

Through guided exercises and on location studies, you will practice seeing subtle color relationships and confidently applying them in both quick studies and more developed pieces. This course balances structured technique with experimentation and play, helping you deepen both technical skill and personal expression.

Materials: Mixed Media Sketchbook Required. You are encouraged to bring your favorite painting and sketching supplies. A variety of materials will be provided in class for students to experiment with throughout the series.

Instructor bio: TJ Marston is a visual artist and educator with a passion for helping others discover joy through sketching. With a background in landscape architecture, TJ has taught art in a variety of settings, from online workshops to university classrooms. Her teaching style emphasizes observation, experimentation, and creative play, guiding students to build both technical skills and personal expression. Whether working with beginners or experienced artists, TJ creates a  welcoming space where curiosity and creativity thrive. When not teaching, she can often be found filling sketchbooks, making zines, or exploring the natural world with a paintbrush in hand.