Catherine’s paintings can be described as traditional landscapes, still lifes and figures, but I try to use my unique perspective to draw the viewer into the world as I see it, incorporating humor or beauty whenever possible in unexpected places. As an eager traveler, and perhaps even a bit of a gypsy, I try to view everyday subjects with fresh eyes. Painting on the national plein air circuit for the past several years has only enticed me to travel further and wider.

Creating art makes me feel good. I’m relaxed and healthy when I paint and if I’m working outdoors, with the sun shining, birds singing and breezes blowing, I cannot be happier. I paint both en plein air and in the studio but I cannot tell you which I prefer. I only know that whatever piece I'm working on at the time is the one I am meant to create.

Our daily lives are hectic. I like to think my work can slow the pace, and make a troubled world feel better as I take a wide view of the chaos and bring focus and order to the pandemonium around me by squinting, and then positioning my pencil and brush onto paper or canvas.

Teaching art provides me another regular, joyful outlet. I believe in giving back. I’m devoted to sharing what I know with students. I’m a believer in common sense instruction and providing lifelong skills to each learner. I have proudly served as a member of the faculty at the re-known Art League School in Alexandria, Virginia; Frederick Community College in Maryland, and in many art centers across the USA and around the world. I continue each year to conduct workshops nationally and internationally.

Website: catherinehillis.com

Join Catherine Hillis for 3-days of plein air painting in the shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Shenandoah River. Your instructor will begin with a demonstration and explanations of the best equipment to use. Students will then learn how to select a site, start a painting and complete it. All the basic landscape topics will be covered from sky to water to land with Ms. Hillis providing multiple demonstrations.

Tools:

There is no substitute for good quality paper and paint. If you already own watercolor supplies, please bring what you have, and don’t hesitate to contact Catherine with any questions.

Email: catherine.h.hillis@gmail.com

Paper: A small Arches 140lb cold pressed or rough watercolor block. 12 x 16 or smaller is fine. Board: gator board/corrugated plastic board or similar and masking tape.

Accessories: Portable chair, sunblock, bug repellant, water container and water, paper towels, pencil, kneaded eraser, a spray bottle for water, and sketchbook. Bring a phone or iPad for taking pictures. Snacks, lunch, hat, trash bag, water to drink.

Umbrella: I use the EASEYL umbrella from http://artworkessentials.com/products/UMK-45/ UMK45.htm

Easel: Your choice. I use the En Plein Air easel because it’s light yet durable from https:// enpleinairpro.com/. You can also sit in a chair and paint on your lap.

Palette: Your choice: make it light and portable. Most people like a pan palette. I use the Quiller Palette or similar.

Brushes: Your choice. I use a medium round mop, a small round for details, a rigger, and a flat. Here are some reasonable brands: Raphael Soft Aquas, Princeton watercolor brushes, Cheap Joe’s Dream Catcher line and Golden Fleece line and Stephen Quiller’s brushrd.

Paint: Use only professional grade paints. I use Daniel Smith paints, Winsor-Newton, Mijello and Da Vinci.


Ultramarine Blue, Cerulean Blue, Alizarin Crimson, Red Hot Mama (a medium red), Bumblebee Yellow (any warm yellow) and lemon yellow. I also like to use Burnt Sienna and Neutral Tint.

3 Day, 4 Nights Overnight Package Includes: 4 nights onsite lodging, private chef prepared meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and 3 days of instruction in a private venue.

Meals and Lodging: $798 per person private room, $521 per person shared room

Tuition/Fees $710

Non-refundable deposit of $250 due to hold workshop space. The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to workshop start date

Policies: When making a reservation, students will be asked to acknowledge and agree that they have read and understand Shenandoah CREATES Payment, Refund Cancellation, Liability and Sick Policies.

Other information is provided on the FAQ page.