Mondays, January 19, 2026 through February 16, 2026 | 10:30 am to 1:30 pm (5 Sessions)

Discover how to create dynamic, textured artwork using a palette knife. In this introductory course, you will learn the fundamentals of working with palette knives, from selecting different knife types to understanding how they differ from traditional brushes. We will cover essential topics including color theory, setting up your paint palette, mixing paint with a knife, underpainting, and using mediums to enhance texture. You will also practice core palette knife techniques to build confidence and control.

All levels of experience are welcome.

The program fee does not include materials.

Materials Required

• Palette Knives (or one will be provided, quantities limited)
• 11 x 14 Stretched canvas
• Landscape reference photo with water in the foreground
• Hand wipes
• Paint brush for under painting
• Water container with lid (to carry away after class)
• Water soluble oil Paints including the following colors (Required) -

• • Titanium White
  • Cadmium Yellow
  • Phthalo Blue
  • Alizarin Crimson
  • Burnt Sienna
  • Mars Black
  • (I prefer to use Lukas Paints, but you can purchase any brand of water mixable oils)

• You may also bring additional colors including –

• • Cobalt Violet
  • Lemon Yellow
  • Viridian Green
  • Ultramarine Blue
  • Cadmium Red
  • Burnt Umber
  • Yellow Ochr

Instructor bio: Bonnie Masdeu is an artist and photographer with experience in fashion design, illustration, painting, murals, and wildlife photography. She has painted live at public events, completed large-scale mural projects, and continues to develop her studio practice in Miami.

Originally from Upstate New York, Bonnie studied Fashion Design and Illustration at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City, where she also tutored illustration. Her early career in the fashion industry included work in Hong Kong, China, and Taipei. After moving to Miami in 1994, she spent ten years with Ralph Lauren in Bal Harbour before turning more fully to painting.

Bonnie joined the Palette Knife Artists of Miami in 2017 and now serves as Co-Director, helping coordinate exhibitions and promote palette knife techniques. She also teaches a general painting class at East Ridge Community Center.

Her interest in nature led her to birding and later to wildlife photography, which has received awards and recognition. She is an active member of several conservation organizations and continues to pair her artistic work with environmental advocacy.

Learn more about Bonnie here: Bonnie's Galleries

This ticket includes access to all sessions in this series as listed above. Tickets are nonrefundable. This class runs rain or shine.

Image credit: “Out on a Limb” by Bonnie Masdeu