Watercolor Workshop at Wheatgrass

One spring afternoon I was driving home to Saint Marie. I happened to hear about a watercolor workshop at the Cottonwood. I'd done a lot of acrylics but very little Watercolor, so I signed up. That's where I met Lance Johnson. Over the next 13 years, he has become my mentor, my friend and eventually a fellow colleague.

Lance Johnson has roots in Wolf Point but works out of Billings. A professional artist, he specializes in landscapes, wildlife, and Native American themes. His work can be found at the Sunrise Studio and Art Gallery on North 30th Street, downtown Billings.

Except for virtual events, art activities have been severely limited. When Wheatgrass Arts & Gallery announced the possibility of a watercolor workshop, the public responded overwhelmingly. Originally planned for one day, it was extended to two days.

Lance begins his classes with a specific theme. He demonstrates each step of the process as he works with students. This time we began with a grove of aspen trees, masking out the areas where the trees would sit. Next, we built up the background with multiple washes moving to the foreground. Removing the masking fluid is always exciting. Branches and details to the trees were added. Each enthusiastic class member had a finished painting. The other painting subjects were teepees and chickadees.

Lance has a great rapport with students. His knowledge of painting is vast. He is exceptionally approachable, sharing his expertise. The class was open to all levels of talent. If you are interested in our next class, please get in touch with Mary Fahlgren at Wheatgrass Arts & Gallery. (Email [email protected] or 406-230-0148)

In keeping with the Covid-19 restrictions, masks were worn and a three to six-foot distance was observed.