Create with me

Painting Classes

“I never imagined I could paint like this. Elisabeth’s classes gave me the tools and confidence to start creating finally, and I haven’t stopped since!” Susan M.

Always wanted to paint but didn’t know where to start? Or maybe you’ve been painting for years and just want to feel excited about it again. Either way, you’re in the right place.

I teach acrylic and oil painting classes for adults, who want to learn, explore, and express themselves without being bogged down by too many rules or rigid techniques. Whether you join me online or in person, you’ll get a mix of solid skills, inspiring art history, and intuitive freedom that brings your creativity to life.

Online Intuitive Painting Class Review

“This was an informative and enjoyable class!

Don’t let the ‘virtual’ nature of the format scare you away.

Elisabeth commanded the class with excellent preparation, handy use of her computer’s cameras and screens and solid knowledge and experience.

She made the class cohesive and interactive, much better than some IRL art classes I have attended. It was very worthwhile.” ~ Nancy Light

My Teaching Philosophy

My approach to teaching art goes beyond learning techniques and making a successful painting.

I’m deeply interested in creativity, human behavior, and the way our brains influence how we see, respond, learn, and change.

Why do we draw what we think we see rather than what is actually in front of us?

Why does fear sometimes stop us from experimenting?

Why are old habits so difficult to change?

And what happens when we use images, color and movement to express something we may not yet have words for?

My background in coaching, combined with many years of teaching art, has made these questions an important part of how I work. I bring simple insights from neuroscience, psychology and the creative process into my classes, not to turn art into science, but to help students understand themselves a little better as they create.

For me, learning to make art is also an opportunity to become more curious, more aware, and more open to possibility.

Fall Classes 2026

Virtual – Yellow Barn – Winter 2027

The Art of Composition

Tu Feb 2-March 23, 2027, 4-6:30pm

Supply list provided upon request

Virtual – Yellow Barn – Winter 2027

Fearless Abstraction

Th Jan 28-March 25, 2027, 12-2:30pm

Supply list provided upon request

Virtual – Yellow Barn – Spring 2027

Fearless Abstraction

Th Apr 22-May 27 (6 sessions); 1-3:30pm

Supply list provided upon request

Virtual Spring 2027

Fearless Abstraction – A Fresh Perspective

Th June 17-July 1 (3 sessions), 2-4pm

Supply list provided upon request

Fearless Abstraction – Explained

Discover the rich and ever-evolving language of abstract painting.

Whether you’re new to abstraction or have been painting for years, understanding where abstract art came from opens the door to seeing, and painting,in an entirely new way.

This nine-week course combines art history, contemporary inspiration, thoughtful discussion, and hands-on studio practice. We’ll begin with Matthew Collings’ acclaimed documentary series The Rules of Abstraction, exploring the revolutionary ideas that transformed the history of art and continue to influence artists today.

From there, we’ll move beyond the familiar names. While we’ll certainly discuss influential artists such as Kandinsky, Mondrian, Rothko, Pollock, Diebenkorn, Mitchell, Frankenthaler, and others, we’ll also discover remarkable painters whose work deserves far more attention. Each week introduces artists with distinct voices, approaches, and visual languages, giving you a broader and richer understanding of what abstraction can be.

Rather than studying artists to imitate them, we’ll ask deeper questions:
What makes this work compelling? How does an artist create tension, harmony, movement, or emotion? Which ideas resonate with you, and how can they inform your own paintings?

Sessions include demonstrations, painting exercises, discussions, and individual guidance designed to help you experiment with greater confidence while developing your own visual language.

Topics include:

The history and evolution of abstract art
Matthew Collings’ The Rules of Abstraction
Influential post-war and contemporary abstract painters
Hidden gems and lesser-known artists from around the world
Composition, color, rhythm, shape, texture, and mark-making
Finding your own voice instead of copying someone else’s
Individual feedback in a supportive, encouraging environment

Each semester features a different selection of artists, making the course equally rewarding for both new and returning students. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of abstract art while continually discovering fresh ideas to bring into your own work.

The Art of Composition- Explained

Discover how thoughtful composition can transform an ordinary painting into something extraordinary.

What makes one painting immediately capture your attention while another leaves you indifferent? Often, the answer lies in composition: the way an artist organizes visual elements to create interest, movement, balance, and emotion.

Composition is much more than following a set of rules. It’s about learning to see, making intentional choices, and understanding how the relationships between shapes, colors, values, and space influence the way we experience a painting.

In this course, we’ll explore how artists throughout history have approached composition, from the carefully structured paintings of the Old Masters to the bold, unconventional arrangements of modern and contemporary artists.

We’ll look beyond familiar formulas such as the rule of thirds and the golden ratio, examining how artists create dynamic compositions through contrast, rhythm, repetition, proportion, visual tension, and the deliberate use of negative space.

Rather than simply copying successful compositions, we’ll ask deeper questions:

Why does this arrangement work? Where does your eye travel? What creates visual tension or harmony? What happens when we move, remove, enlarge, or simplify an element?

Through demonstrations, practical exercises, thoughtful discussions, and individual feedback, you’ll develop a stronger understanding of composition and discover new ways to make your paintings more compelling.

Topics include:

The fundamental principles of composition and visual organization
Learning to see and simplify shapes and values
Balance, asymmetry, movement, rhythm, and visual tension
Creating focal points and guiding the viewer’s eye
The power of negative space and thoughtful placement
Exploring color and value as compositional tools
Learning from the compositions of historical and contemporary artists
Knowing when to follow compositional rules — and when to break them
Developing greater confidence in your artistic decisions

Whether you paint abstractly or representationally, a deeper understanding of composition will help you approach your work with fresh eyes.

The goal isn’t to create perfectly composed paintings by following rules. It’s to understand why something works, recognize when it doesn’t, and develop the confidence to make your own creative decisions.

Skill level: All levels welcome.

Fearless Abstraction – A Fresh Perspective – Explained

Break old habits. Discover new possibilities. Paint differently.

What happens when you stop painting the way you always have?

Every artist develops familiar ways of working. We return to the same colors, compositions, gestures, and solutions. These habits can be comforting, but they can also limit our creative growth.

In this workshop, we’ll challenge those habits and explore new ways of seeing, thinking, and painting.

Inspired by artists who dared to move beyond convention, we’ll experiment with unfamiliar approaches, unexpected color combinations, unusual compositions, and fresh starting points.

Through demonstrations, stimulating conversations, practical exercises, and individual feedback, you’ll discover how changing your approach can open the door to an entirely new visual language.

This isn’t about painting like someone else. It’s about discovering possibilities you haven’t explored yet.

What you’ll explore:

Recognizing and challenging your habitual painting patterns
Using artistic influences without imitating
Finding surprising new approaches to color and composition
Working with intuition, curiosity, and experimentation
Developing a more personal and distinctive visual language

For whom: Artists with some painting experience who want to push their boundaries, refresh their practice, and discover something new.

Format: Live online workshop with demonstrations, painting time, discussion, and individual feedback.

Retreat 2027 in the Studio in Hedgesville, WV

Soul Retreat: $475 (early bird $425)

June 11 (4pm) – 13 (4pm), 2027

Yellow Barn Online Classes Submitted For Fall/Winter

FALL 2026: Fearless Abstraction; The Language of Color

WINTER 2027: The Art of Composition; Fearless Abstraction

Feel more confident, creative, and clearon the canvas and in your life.

Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or returning after years, my programs help you trust your instincts, quiet the inner critic, and reconnect with your unique voice.

Through painting, retreats, and coaching, we don't just make art we make space for you to feel alive again. This isn’t a step-by-step formula. It’s a return to yourself through painting, reflection, intuition, or conversation.

Whether you're drawn to a retreat, curious about intuitive painting, or looking for a coach to help you move forward, everything I offer is grounded in the same belief: you already hold the answers. My role is to help you hear them.

You’ll walk away with

A renewed sense of creative confidence
Tools to express yourself with more freedom
Insight into what’s holding you back and how to move through it
The joy of making something that feels like you
Courage to take imperfect action, in art and in life

Scroll down and follow what pulls you in. And if you’re not sure where to start reach out.

Matisse & the Magic of Cut-Outs

I’ve loved cut-outs since I was five, sitting at a kindergarten table with scissors in hand, watching simple shapes transform into something magical. That early fascination never left me, and now, inspired by Henri Matisse, I’m sharing it with students in a playful, intuitive online class. Over three sessions, we’ll explore color, shape, and space, trusting intuition, discovering unexpected forms, and enjoying the creative process as much as the outcome.

New work by students

Master Mixing Colors Weekend Workshop in the Yellow Barn July 2026

What Students Are Saying

Before taking this Master Mixing Colors Workshop, what were you hoping to learn? Did the workshop meet those expectations?

– I wanted to learn about different color mixes and value ranges. The workshop was right on target!! Having each of us go thru the process was invaluable from a learning standpoint (and we have reference panels!!)

What was your favorite part of the workshop?

– Spending the day discovering about color, lunch with the instructor and participants and Elisabeth teaching me how to mix colors in a more efficient manner.

What did you learn or discover about color?

– How many individual colors can be mixed to get the same color, which colors create a rich black and the effects of tinting across all colors.

How has the workshop influenced your painting?
– It made me more confident in being able to mix a certain color (without having to ask google.

Would you recommend this workshop to others? Why?
– Yes indeed. You need to take the time to understand color and color relationships.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Thank you Elisabeth for holding this course and for your patience and how insightful it was!!!

Recent Student Review of an Online Class

Section 1: Overall Experience (Rate on a scale of 1-5)
1 = Strongly Disagree, 3 = Neutral, 5 = Strongly Agree
The class was engaging and enjoyable overall. 5
The pacing of the 3 sessions felt appropriate (not too rushed or too slow). 5
The techniques, projects, or topics covered met my expectations. 5
I felt motivated to create art during the sessions. 5
The class inspired me to continue making art outside of the sessions. 5
I gained new confidence in my artistic abilities. 5
Section 2: Impact on Your Art Journey (Open-ended)
What was your favorite part of the class, and why? I enjoyed the entire class. One of my favorite parts was learning about Kadinsky, the person and artist. I appreciated Elisabeth’s PowerPoint’s that she shared about Kadinsky. I could see that she put in a lot of time and energy and the wealth of information was interesting and inspiring.
How did this mini class affect your motivation or enthusiasm for your own art practice? I find that each of the classes I have taken with Elisabeth inspires to create and paint. As a novice painter, her encouragement results in my excitement to paint during the week and her enthusiasm is contagious!
In what ways (if any) has this class inspired you or influenced your personal art journey? It is because of Elisabeth’s classes that I have a personal art journey!
Did the class introduce any new ideas, techniques, or perspectives that you’ll carry forward in your own work? Please describe. I think the idea of intuitive painting is emphasized and discussed and very helpful, especially for someone like me so tied to shapes, so being a bit freer with brushstroke and staying in the moment.
What could be improved for future mini classes (e.g., more time on certain topics, different materials, etc.)? I find it especially helpful when there is a demonstration. Not improvement, but I’d love a class that focuses on brushwork and color.
Would you recommend this mini class to others? Why or why not? Absolutely YES! If someone wants an interesting, informative, fun class, take this wonderful class!
Any additional comments or suggestions? Please keep teaching!

Explore painting techniques, develop your style, and find creative freedom.

My classes are for curious beginners and experienced artists alike. You'll learn brushwork, color theory, and composition while exploring your unique voice. We’ll weave in art history to inspire and enrich your process.

Whether we’re painting flowers or playing with abstraction, you’ll leave with more confidence and clarity. Offered online and occasionally in-person in the Yellow Barn, Glen Echo MD.

You’ll gain

Painting techniques that build confidence
Guidance in developing your personal style
Space to experiment and grow
“She gave me permission to let go of perfection.”

Nourish Your Soul: A Weekend to Reconnect

Imagine a weekend where time slows down. Where you’re surrounded by trees, fresh air, and an intimate small group of women who are just like you ready to reconnect with what really matters to you.

These 3-day retreats are a unique blend of painting, poetry, movement, journaling, clay, and nature. Each activity builds on the last, helping you loosen up, go inward, and rediscover what’s true for you. You’ll leave not only rested, but more alive.

You’ll experience

Deep creative flow through multiple art forms
The power of nature to quiet the mind
A safe, soulful community of like-hearted women

Rooted in the Creative Connection method by Natalie Rogers, these retreats are truly transformational.

“I came back from this retreat feeling more like myself than I have in years.”

Intuitive Painting in Progress

Images Go deeper than words. Let images take the lead.

Visual journaling is a gentle yet powerful way to explore your inner world. In small online groups, we combine guided prompts with painting your feelings in simple shapes and colors. Carl Jung is seen as the poster child of journaling with images (the Red Book).

You’ll discover

New perspectives and personal insight
Safe space for expression and reflection
A creative ritual that transforms.
“It’s like therapy, without the therapy.”

“Elisabeth has a special gift to connect with her students and help them to create their own approach to art.”

“Elisabeth always makes every class she offers very personable and fun. She engages each student to introspectively “feel” how they want to create art which is so inspiring.”

Past Classes in 2026

Online Play with Abstraction: Thu 01/29-03/19, 1-3:30pm

Online Matisses Cut-Outs: Mon 04/06-20, 1-3pm

Online Women of Abstraction: Thu 04/23-05/28, 1-3:30pm

Master Mixing Colors Workshop: Sa/Su 07/25+26, 9:30-4pm

Online Intuitive Painting: Thu 08/06-20, 1-3:30pm

Past Classes in 2025

Online Play with Abstraction: Wed: 01/29-03/19, 1-3:30pm

Online Postwar Abstract Women: Thu 03/20-04/03, 1-3:30pm

Online Monoprint Postwar Women: Thu 04/24-05/15, 10am 12pm

Online Abstract Exploration: Thu 05/29-06/19, 10am-12pm

In person Intuitive Painting Workshop: Sat July 12 9:30am-4pm

Online Acrylic Painting for Beginners: Thu July 10-31, 10am-12pm

Play with Abstraction: Thu 9/25-11/20, 1-3:30pm

Vasily Kandinsky: Thu 12/3-18, 1-3pm

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