COST $69.00

Aug 5, 2026 at 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (EST) / 9:00AM - 12:00 PM PST

All Level – English – Online Live Course

Meet your Instructor:Lorraine Simonds

Wild Colour Portraits – Bold, Loose and Unpredictable. Ready to break free from “safe” painting? In this live demo, we’ll explore expressive portrait painting using wild colours, oversized brushes, and a fearless, loose approach. With Rockwell’s vibrant palette, you’ll learn to build dynamic faces through bold marks, unexpected hues, and joyful accidents.

We’ll focus less on perfect likeness and more on energy, emotion, wet-into-wet flow, blooms, drips, and soft lost edges. Discover how to balance punchy shadows with luminous colour to bring portraits to life. Perfect for artists ready to loosen up, experiment boldly, and rediscover the fun of watercolour, bring your biggest brushes and let the paint lead the way.

• Date: July 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th, 2026 (4 Fridays)

• Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (PDT) 

• Location: Online via Zoom

• Level: Open to All Levels!

• Medium: Watercolour

All sessions are recorded!

Workshop Overview:

Discover the art of expressive watercolour portraiture in this four-part online workshop series. We’ll explore capturing character and emotion across a range of ages and skin tones, using vibrant colour, loose brushwork, and a focus on storytelling. Each week, you’ll learn new techniques to help you paint more confidently and authentically, whether you’re a beginner or looking to loosen up your style.

From the drama of monochrome studies to the playful energy of children’s portraits, we’ll tackle a variety of subjects and approaches. You’ll practise building form with bold marks, experimenting with colour, and using brushwork to create movement and life in your paintings. Along the way, you’ll gain practical tools for seeing value, mixing harmonious  colours, and expressing mood.

Join us for a welcoming, supportive series designed to help you find your voice and  connect more deeply with your subjects. All levels welcome—bring your curiosity and a willingness to experiment!

Cost and How To Register

• Cost for 4 weeks: 

• FCA Members: $295.00 

• Non-FCA Members: $345.00

Register online by clicking "Register Now", or register by phone at 604-681-8534, or at the Federation Gallery (Mon - Sun, 10am - 4pm).

• Date: July 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th, 2026 (4 Fridays)

• Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (PDT) 

• Location: Online via Zoom

• Level: Open to All Levels!

• Medium: Watercolour

All sessions are recorded!

Workshop Overview:

Discover the art of expressive watercolour portraiture in this four-part online workshop series. We’ll explore capturing character and emotion across a range of ages and skin tones, using vibrant colour, loose brushwork, and a focus on storytelling. Each week, you’ll learn new techniques to help you paint more confidently and authentically, whether you’re a beginner or looking to loosen up your style.

From the drama of monochrome studies to the playful energy of children’s portraits, we’ll tackle a variety of subjects and approaches. You’ll practise building form with bold marks, experimenting with colour, and using brushwork to create movement and life in your paintings. Along the way, you’ll gain practical tools for seeing value, mixing harmonious  colours, and expressing mood.

Join us for a welcoming, supportive series designed to help you find your voice and  connect more deeply with your subjects. All levels welcome—bring your curiosity and a willingness to experiment!

Cost and How To Register

• Cost for 4 weeks: 

• FCA Members: $295.00 

• Non-FCA Members: $345.00

Register online by clicking "Register Now", or register by phone at 604-681-8534, or at the Federation Gallery (Mon - Sun, 10am - 4pm).

• Date: July 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th, 2026 (4 Fridays)

• Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (PDT) 

• Location: Online via Zoom

• Level: Open to All Levels!

• Medium: Watercolour

All sessions are recorded!

Workshop Overview:

Discover the art of expressive watercolour portraiture in this four-part online workshop series. We’ll explore capturing character and emotion across a range of ages and skin tones, using vibrant colour, loose brushwork, and a focus on storytelling. Each week, you’ll learn new techniques to help you paint more confidently and authentically, whether you’re a beginner or looking to loosen up your style.

From the drama of monochrome studies to the playful energy of children’s portraits, we’ll tackle a variety of subjects and approaches. You’ll practise building form with bold marks, experimenting with colour, and using brushwork to create movement and life in your paintings. Along the way, you’ll gain practical tools for seeing value, mixing harmonious  colours, and expressing mood.

Join us for a welcoming, supportive series designed to help you find your voice and  connect more deeply with your subjects. All levels welcome—bring your curiosity and a willingness to experiment!

Cost and How To Register

• Cost for 4 weeks: 

• FCA Members: $295.00 

• Non-FCA Members: $345.00

Register online by clicking "Register Now", or register by phone at 604-681-8534, or at the Federation Gallery (Mon - Sun, 10am - 4pm).

• Date: July 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th, 2026 (4 Fridays)

• Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (PDT) 

• Location: Online via Zoom

• Level: Open to All Levels!

• Medium: Watercolour

All sessions are recorded!

Workshop Overview:

Discover the art of expressive watercolour portraiture in this four-part online workshop series. We’ll explore capturing character and emotion across a range of ages and skin tones, using vibrant colour, loose brushwork, and a focus on storytelling. Each week, you’ll learn new techniques to help you paint more confidently and authentically, whether you’re a beginner or looking to loosen up your style.

From the drama of monochrome studies to the playful energy of children’s portraits, we’ll tackle a variety of subjects and approaches. You’ll practise building form with bold marks, experimenting with colour, and using brushwork to create movement and life in your paintings. Along the way, you’ll gain practical tools for seeing value, mixing harmonious  colours, and expressing mood.

Join us for a welcoming, supportive series designed to help you find your voice and  connect more deeply with your subjects. All levels welcome—bring your curiosity and a willingness to experiment!

Cost and How To Register

• Cost for 4 weeks: 

• FCA Members: $295.00 

• Non-FCA Members: $345.00

Register online by clicking "Register Now", or register by phone at 604-681-8534, or at the Federation Gallery (Mon - Sun, 10am - 4pm).

At the end of May, I’m doing a free mini demo at Opus Art Supplies (North Vancouver). It’ll be a relaxed little meet and greet, and a chance to try out the Winsor & Newton Professional line.

Event details and registration are here:

Opus mini workshop – Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolour Materials

And if you’re shopping at Opus, here’s my discount code:

LORRAINESIMONDS – 10% off per sales order (one-time use per customer)

https://opusartsupplies.com/products/watercolours-portraits-with-lorraine-simonds

I’m launching a brand new four-part watercolour course with Artists Network, and I’m genuinely excited about it. This series is all about helping you loosen up in your portrait work, whether you’re feeling stuck, too careful, or just want to try something fresh. I’ve split it into four focused workshops—Control, Softness, Boldness, and Freedom—so you can really dig into each stage and see how they build on one another.

Dates: Saturdays, Jan 31, Feb 28, Mar 28 & Apr 25

Accessibility was a big priority for me:

• Each session is over 2 hours of live instruction

• Everything’s recorded and available for 30 days after, so you can revisit or catch up if you miss a class

• It’s priced to be doable: $29.99 per workshop, or $109 for all four (which saves you a bit if you want to go all-in)

If you want to invest in yourself and challenge your portrait skills in a supportive, low-pressure way, this is a great place to start. First lesson is a monotone portrait like the one up there 👆

You can find all the details and sign up here:

Very soon, in conjunction with Red Point School, I’ll be hosting a free workshop called Amber Silhouettes.

Over 3 days, we’ll paint 3 watercolour portraits together, using a warm palette and those soft, flowing blends that give portraits that glowing, almost amber-like feel. That’s exactly where the name Amber Silhouettes comes from.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have created something beautiful of your own, while also learning more about how to approach portraiture with both intention and freedom.

Here’s some of what we’ll explore together:

✅ How to balance control with letting the water flow
✅ What helps a painting really shine
✅ How your own journey and experiences begin to shape your artistic style

And if you join us for all 3 days, you’ll also receive three bonus video lessons:

🎁 Flowers and Emotions: Enriching Portraits with Bright Details
🎁 Basics of Animal Portrait Painting
🎁 Human Eyes: Exploring Shapes and Expressing Emotions

We begin on this Monday, March 30.

And if you can’t make it live, no worries — you’ll still get access to the recordings.

I’d love for you to join me for this one.

Very soon, in conjunction with Red Point School, I’ll be hosting a free workshop called Amber Silhouettes.

Over 3 days, we’ll paint 3 watercolour portraits together, using a warm palette and those soft, flowing blends that give portraits that glowing, almost amber-like feel. That’s exactly where the name Amber Silhouettes comes from.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have created something beautiful of your own, while also learning more about how to approach portraiture with both intention and freedom.

Here’s some of what we’ll explore together:

✅ How to balance control with letting the water flow
✅ What helps a painting really shine
✅ How your own journey and experiences begin to shape your artistic style

And if you join us for all 3 days, you’ll also receive three bonus video lessons:

🎁 Flowers and Emotions: Enriching Portraits with Bright Details
🎁 Basics of Animal Portrait Painting
🎁 Human Eyes: Exploring Shapes and Expressing Emotions

We begin on this Monday, March 30.

And if you can’t make it live, no worries — you’ll still get access to the recordings.

I’d love for you to join me for this one.

Very soon, in conjunction with Red Point School, I’ll be hosting a free workshop called Amber Silhouettes.

Over 3 days, we’ll paint 3 watercolour portraits together, using a warm palette and those soft, flowing blends that give portraits that glowing, almost amber-like feel. That’s exactly where the name Amber Silhouettes comes from.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have created something beautiful of your own, while also learning more about how to approach portraiture with both intention and freedom.

Here’s some of what we’ll explore together:

✅ How to balance control with letting the water flow
✅ What helps a painting really shine
✅ How your own journey and experiences begin to shape your artistic style

And if you join us for all 3 days, you’ll also receive three bonus video lessons:

🎁 Flowers and Emotions: Enriching Portraits with Bright Details
🎁 Basics of Animal Portrait Painting
🎁 Human Eyes: Exploring Shapes and Expressing Emotions

We begin on this Monday, March 30.

And if you can’t make it live, no worries — you’ll still get access to the recordings.

I’d love for you to join me for this one.

I’m launching a brand new four-part watercolour course with Artists Network, and I’m genuinely excited about it. This series is all about helping you loosen up in your portrait work, whether you’re feeling stuck, too careful, or just want to try something fresh. I’ve split it into four focused workshops—Control, Softness, Boldness, and Freedom—so you can really dig into each stage and see how they build on one another.

Dates: Saturdays, Jan 31, Feb 28, Mar 28 & Apr 25

Accessibility was a big priority for me:

• Each session is over 2 hours of live instruction

• Everything’s recorded and available for 30 days after, so you can revisit or catch up if you miss a class

• It’s priced to be doable: $29.99 per workshop, or $109 for all four (which saves you a bit if you want to go all-in)

If you want to invest in yourself and challenge your portrait skills in a supportive, low-pressure way, this is a great place to start. First lesson is a monotone portrait like the one up there 👆

You can find all the details and sign up here:

SQUAMISH friends - on Saturday, March 21st, I have the opening reception for my BIGGEST solo show so far, Seen & Known, at the Foyer Gallery in the Squamish Public Library, from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

I’ll be there, doing a live demo, there’ll be light snacks, and I’ve also made around 50 small original art gifts to give away to the first 50 people who come. I really wanted to make it feel warm and welcoming rather than formal or stiff. If you’re local, I’d absolutely love to see you there.

IF YOU’RE TRAVELLING FROM OUT OF TOWN - I have two more locations in Squamish exhibiting work (The Ledge and Samurai Sushi in Garibaldi), which means you could see up to 36 original works by me, and another one in Granville Island, Vancouver at the Federation Gallery is you’re passing through for the 2026 Annual International Representation Exhibition.

I’m launching a brand new four-part watercolour course with Artists Network, and I’m genuinely excited about it. This series is all about helping you loosen up in your portrait work, whether you’re feeling stuck, too careful, or just want to try something fresh. I’ve split it into four focused workshops—Control, Softness, Boldness, and Freedom—so you can really dig into each stage and see how they build on one another.

Dates: Saturdays, Jan 31, Feb 28, Mar 28 & Apr 25

Accessibility was a big priority for me:

• Each session is over 2 hours of live instruction

• Everything’s recorded and available for 30 days after, so you can revisit or catch up if you miss a class

• It’s priced to be doable: $29.99 per workshop, or $109 for all four (which saves you a bit if you want to go all-in)

If you want to invest in yourself and challenge your portrait skills in a supportive, low-pressure way, this is a great place to start. First lesson is a monotone portrait like the one up there 👆

You can find all the details and sign up here:

Lorraine Simonds – Lessons I’ve Learned

Five years ago, I picked up watercolour for the first time. Within just three and a half years, I found myself working as a full-time artist—soon after, I began receiving international recognition for my work, having my own line of curated paints and co-branded watercolour paper.
Now, as a five-year practising watercolour artist, I’d love to share the lessons that helped me get here.

In this talk, I’ll offer practical insights on: 

• Navigating the “messy middle” and why persistence matters

• Building structure into your art life with planning and intention. 

• The importance of community and seeking feedback. 

• Mentoring yourself with honest reflection and good questions. 

• Putting yourself out there and staying open to unexpected opportunities

Whether you’re just starting out or deep in your creative journey, these take-aways are meant for anyone ready to grow, connect, and keep showing up for their art.

Join us for a relaxed, homeschool-friendly Valentine’s watercolour morning in Squamish.

Lorraine Simonds will be hosting a sweet little art meet-up with simple, guided watercolour activities that kids can enjoy at their own pace. We’ll focus on playful colour, hearts, and Valentine-inspired creativity – no experience needed.

Details

• Date: Valentine’s meet-up (Squamish Homeschoolers)

• Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm

• Location: The Ledge (Cleveland Ave), Squamish

• Cost: $20 per child

• Materials: All materials provided

Perfect for homeschool families who want a fun, low-pressure creative morning together. Email Kendra to RSVP

In-person meeting: Lorraine Simonds
7:30 – 9:30 pm

Toronto Watercolour Society at the Burgundy Room, North York Memorial Hall

Artist Lecture: Please join us as Lorraine reveals how her meteoric rise in watercolour began.

I’m launching a brand new four-part watercolour course with Artists Network, and I’m genuinely excited about it. This series is all about helping you loosen up in your portrait work, whether you’re feeling stuck, too careful, or just want to try something fresh. I’ve split it into four focused workshops—Control, Softness, Boldness, and Freedom—so you can really dig into each stage and see how they build on one another.

Dates: Saturdays, Jan 31, Feb 28, Mar 28 & Apr 25

Accessibility was a big priority for me:

• Each session is over 2 hours of live instruction

• Everything’s recorded and available for 30 days after, so you can revisit or catch up if you miss a class

• It’s priced to be doable: $29.99 per workshop, or $109 for all four (which saves you a bit if you want to go all-in)

If you want to invest in yourself and challenge your portrait skills in a supportive, low-pressure way, this is a great place to start. First lesson is a monotone portrait like the one up there 👆

You can find all the details and sign up here:

TWS Workshop with Lorraine Simonds

“Figures That Tell Stories”

On-line, Saturday, January 24, 11.00 am to 3.00 pm

Take any street scene or landscape and add people. Suddenly, there is a story waiting to be told. Where are they going? What are they thinking? Do they see what you see? What might they do next?

Join award-winning artist, Lorrain Simmonds, from her online from her studio in Squamish, British Columbia. We’ll explore the various ways to add figures to your painting, whether detailed figures, or quick brush strokes that bring humans and their emotions into your work.

The workshop starts with freehand warm-up exercises focused on gestural drawing - the kind of quick, loose figures you can apply to landscapes, street scenes, or life drawing classes. Then we'll build on those skills together to create a more complex figurative piece.

Agenda

• Freehand gestural painting to warm up

• Two paint-along demos

• Half-hour for lunch

• Optional group sharing and critique.

$30 Registration limited to 25.

To register, email beth@bethparker.com for registration details and to reserve a spot.

About Lorraine  https://www.lorrainesimonds.com/

Lorraine is a Signature Member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, and BC Representative of the Canadian Branch, International Watercolour Society .

Her artistic journey began in Plymouth, England, where she learned to draw from books and practised on the rugged English Moorlands. She then studied composition through film photography at Plymouth College of Art & Design, before earning a BA in Fine Art from the University of Leeds. She also studied under the mentorship of renowned watercolourist Thomas Schaller.

Lorraine has an admiration for traditional Chinese art, particularly its economy of brushstroke, expressive linework, and philosophy of capturing essence rather than mere likeness. These influences are evident in her signature style – loose, atmospheric, and richly textured.