Learn the fundamentals of painting with watercolour with Xiaochen (Fiona) Bao

About the course: 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction watercolour painting with inspiration from subjects in nature.  Through a series of exercises and projects students will learn about materials, basic colour theory and techniques for applying paint to paper.  Suitable for students just starting the watercolour journey, there will be step by step instruction throughout each class.                                                                   

Watercolour One is the first course of a 4-part series and is a recommended /prerequisite for the follow-on Watercolour Two, Three and Four.

• Dates: 21 July – 11 August 2026
  
• Days/Times: Tuesdays 9.30am - 12.00pm
• Venue: NatureArt Lab, M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith
  

Learning outcomes:

- Knowledge of watercolour materials; paints, papers, brushes and palettes.

- An understanding of basic colour theory and colour mixing.

- Skills in techniques of applying paint to paper.

Suitable for 16+ ages, beginners and those wanting to revise their practice. 

Materials List:  A materials list will be provided upon booking the course. Please keep an eye out for our email - check your JUNK and SPAM folders as we are finding a lot of our emails going here.

Administration:  There is free dedicated parking onsite as well as a cafe and supermarket within a 5 minute walk (please check opening times).  

About the tutor:
Xiaochen (Fiona) Bao is a Canberra-based fine artist, children’s book illustrator, and dedicated art educator whose work celebrates the spiritual essence and intricate beauty of the natural world. Drawing on her extensive international arts education—including a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York and a Master of Arts in Art History and Curatorial Studies from the ANU—Fiona brings a profound depth of both theoretical and practical knowledge to her practice.

Deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, Fiona believes that attentive observation of nature is both a creative and therapeutic act. Her artworks, which frequently highlight the quiet strength of flora and fauna, aim to transmit positive, grounding energy while inspiring mindfulness in the viewer.

As a teacher with years of experience guiding students of all ages across a diverse range of mediums, Fiona combines deep artistic theory with straightforward, practical instruction. In her watercolor classes, she expertly breaks down fluid dynamics and sophisticated color theory—such as utilizing a "limited palette" to create luminous, breathable shadows without relying on harsh black pigments. An enthusiastic advocate for using art to connect with the environment, Fiona possesses the unique ability to inspire and direct a class while encouraging the individual style, curiosity, and creative expression of each student.

NatureArt Lab Awards:

2022, Telstra Best of Business Award Winner for Promoting Sustainability, ACT; and National Finalist Award

2024, Telstra Best of Business Award Winner for Building Communities, ACT; and National Finalist Award

2025, Telstra Best of Business Award Finalist for Promoting Sustainability, ACT; and Finalist for Accelerating Women, ACT

2025, Awards Australia Semi-Finalist for Connecting Communities, NSW and ACT; and Semi-Finalist for Small Business Award NSW and ACT. 

 Image credit: Xiaochen (Fiona) Bao