Class Descriptions – click here.
Don’s set-up is so impressive!
With 8 cameras, specialized lighting, and two monitors, Don brings you the most professional digital art learning experience yet!!! Your screen will show the artwork and his mixing palette side by side, in real time, to optimize your understanding of the process.
“Join my online classes for fun, education and a chance express your creative side. I’ve been giving classes at Blaine’s for over 20 years and I never thought I would be sharing the creative process digitally…but here we are! I’m excited to see your smiling face on my computer screen!!!!”
Don has been a professional artist since 1982.
Materials are not included. The class and materials can be ordered through Blaine’s Art Supply, and materials can be picked up at Blaine’s Art Supply. Call 561-5344 for more information or to register.
The online classes will be conducted using the Zoom app and you will need to download that to your computer before the class. I will contact you with information regarding Zoom once I have your email address.
You will need to provide to Blaine’s with your name, phone number, and email for me to contact you regarding the class.
Reviews:
“I have taken about ten online classes with Don Kolstad starting at the beginner level and progressing to the intermediate level. Honestly, I have enjoyed every one of them and learned many new techniques that Don incorporates into every lesson. While I am just a hobbyist, I take great joy in learning new methods and techniques and Don’s teaching style is down to earth and supportive even when we make novice mistakes. His critiques of our works, with his professional artists eye, are invaluable for learning and improving the quality of the paintings that I choose to do on my own. He picks subjects to paint that emphasize balance as well as a critical eye to the nuances of the Alaskan scene.
While some may question the value of an online class, I believe that I get more out of the online presentations than I would in a classroom or studio setting. In the online format I can watch both Don’s sample painting for approach, technique and color selections and his palette to mix colors the way he does, I believe this approach is about as good as it can get as far as learning to watercolor, especially when Don is doing the instruction to explain not just the how but the why a particular method or technique is most effective.
Bottom Line: If you have always wanted to watercolor or learn to paint or improve the skills you already have, the best way to do any of those is to sign up for an on-line class program with Don. You will love it.
Thanx
Dan Bonney
Eagle River”
“I have been taking one on one lessons with Don for over five years now. I started with the basic drawing class and eventually progressed to watercolors. He has truly been an inspiration in terms of keeping me on track to reach my goals and is just an all around great guy. Once Covid hit we started zooming and it has worked really well for me. I send him my new pictures and he will give me suggestions, let me know where I need improvement, and provide demonstrations as needed.
I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Don and hope to continue our collaboration. I highly recommend him as a teacher for any level. He is a wonderful artist and has a special ability of communicating and keeping the class enjoyable at the same time.”
Jo Ann Asher
“I’m a now long time student of Don’s Watercolor 2 class! I made the move to Zoom class in 2020 and have thoroughly enjoyed my weekly Wednesday night class meetings.
The lessons are well thought out and demonstrated in ways that are clear and very understandable. My understanding and abilities in painting our wonderful Greatland has way surpassed what I thought my abilities would be. Thank you Don for imparting wisdom of your 50+ years of art experience to your students.”
Margie Chavious
This is Kate Michaels. I have taken all of Don’s classes starting 8 years ago and have become a serious artist although I do not show or sell my paintings generally. I take a weekly private class with Don and have for years. I don’t paint with the Friday group very often although I know many of them and receive the email weekly. You would recognize me…short and sweet and short curly, brown hair. Here’s my shout out for Don’s zoom classes:
I have studied with Don over the last eight years. Don is a fabulous, experienced and motivating teacher. His classes are designed for students of all abilities and levels of interest. His sophisticated zoom set up with cameras on his canvas and paint palette make it easy to follow his organized and creative lessons. Don’s knowledge and enthusiasm brings out the best in everyone he teaches.
I have been in Don Kolstad’s Watercolor II Class for several years and have enjoyed every session! Don is an excellent instructor. He has a sense of humor, makes the lessons fun and challenging, and gives step by step instructions throughout each session. We learn about mixing colors, various painting techniques, bonus tips, materials, and we can request a video of the lesson should we miss a session. He gives encouragement and positive comments and/or suggestions as we share our pieces. The delivery of the lessons via Zoom works very well. We can paint from the comfort of our home, while traveling, or from anywhere. I’m looking forward to future lessons!
Sue Archer
