January 27, 2016

Eric Wiegardt is a signature member of the American Watercolor Society (Dolphin Fellow), National Watercolor Society, Transparent Watercolor Society of America (Master Status) and others. He has been awarded the 2012 AWS Gold Medal of Honor, among many other national and international awards. 

 

Eric returns to the Hudson River Valley Art Workshops May 15 to 21, 2016 to teach his popular Secrets of Painting Loose five-day watercolor class. Late spring is a superb time of year to mix Studio and plein air painting in the Catskills!

 

How long have you been teaching and what got you started teaching?

I have been teaching for 30 years, ever since I started my career in watercolor. I found it a way to earn extra income and pass on my painting techniques  I have gathered over the years.

 

What is your favorite part about teaching?

The satisfaction in knowing that I have helped someone in their watercolor journey.

 

What would you tell your prospective students are three best reasons for taking a workshop?

Concentrated time in learning with one who is a professional in the field,  camaraderie, and fun! 

What are you currently working on in your own art?

Working more from my mind, rather than from a reference.  It is very freeing.

 

Where is your art currently being exhibited?

Wiegardt Studio Gallery, Ocean Park WA.  River Sea Galley, Astoria, Oregon.

 

Is your work represented in galleries, and if so, what hints would you give to artists looking for gallery representation?
Not applicable, as most of my work is sold out of my own gallery.

Do you sell your work in any online gallery?

We sell some work on line through my own website.

 

 

What is your favorite art quote?

“A slightly false statement, yet fresh, is much better than a tiresomely truthful one”.  Irving Shapiro

 

Describe your studio.

I have a studio gallery in my great grandfather’s house, built in 1897.  The lower portion is mainly display area, framing in what used to be the kitchen, and my studio is two bedrooms opened up with a large north light window.

 Name five of your “can’t do without” tools/products.

Truly, my signature five brush set.  Everything else I am flexible.