Paint and Process

Art as Reflection
Watercolor, Journaling, and Looking at Art for Everyday Therapy

A 4-Part Theraputic Watercolor & Art History Class Series
For ages 13+

Tues Sept 23, Thurs Sept 25, Tues Sept 30, Thurs Oct 2
6:00–7:30 PM

Class Overview
This four-part series invites participants to slow down and connect with themselves through art. By combining guided looking, reflective journaling, and watercolor painting, participants will learn to use both the creation and observation of art as tools for emotional awareness, grounding, and personal expression.

Session Breakdown
Session 1: Seeing Yourself in Art (Sept 23)

Gallery focus: Practice slow looking with selected artworks that express emotion or identity (e.g., portraits).

Discussion: How artists like Frida Kahlo and Van Gogh used art to process their inner lives.

Activity: Create a watercolor page inspired by prompts such as “How do I feel today?” or “What part of me do I see in this artwork?” Paired with reflective journaling.

Takeaway: Discovering how art can serve as a mirror for self-understanding.

Session 2: Color & Emotion (Sept 25)

Gallery focus: Explore the emotional use of color in selected works (e.g., Rothko, Impressionists, abstract pieces).

Discussion: The ways color can reflect or influence mood.

Activity: Create a watercolor mood palette and small expressive compositions, paired with a short written reflection.

Takeaway: Using color intentionally as a daily emotional tool.

Session 3: Art as Pause (Sept 30)

Gallery focus: Practice presence and mindfulness by spending 10 minutes with a single artwork.

Discussion: How slow looking and art observation can become forms of meditation.

Activity: Create watercolor sketches based on what was noticed—focusing on feeling rather than accuracy.

Takeaway: Using mindful observation and quick painting exercises as daily grounding rituals.

Session 4: Creating a Visual Affirmation (Oct 2)

Gallery focus: Engage with artworks that inspire hope, peace, or comfort (e.g., Matisse cut-outs, Alma Thomas).

Discussion: The power of art as encouragement and self-soothing.

Activity: Create a watercolor piece that includes an affirmation or word of intention, paired with reflective journaling.

Takeaway: Developing visual affirmations and small daily practices for emotional well-being.

Supplies Provided
Watercolor paints, brushes, and water cups

Watercolor paper

Journaling cards and pens

Participants are also welcome to bring a personal journal.

Benefits of the Series:
Learn how to use art viewing as a calming and meditative practice

Explore watercolor painting in a low-pressure, reflective environment

Build a personal toolkit for stress relief, creative expression, and self-discovery

Connect with the gallery in a more personal and meaningful way.

Registration & Details:
Important: Students must be comfortable navigating a flight of stairs to access the studio.

How to Register: After registration, a confirmation email will be sent. A few days before class, you’ll receive detailed directions to the studio. Check your spam folder if you don’t see it!

Questions? Check out the FAQ section for refund and class cancellation details.