Rocky Mountain High
Doug Swinton
February 21-23, 2025
Radium Centre
Radium Hot Springs, BC
$495 + gst (does not include meals or accommodation)
Immerse yourself in a hands-on weekend dedicated to painting the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rockies! Led by Calgary-based artist and instructor Doug Swinton, this workshop dives beyond traditional landscapes—it’s about experiencing mountain scenes in a whole new way. Doug’s approachable, easygoing style creates a relaxed environment where artists of all levels can explore, learn, and grow.
Ideal for both beginners and seasoned painters, this retreat offers a creative journey that will help you bring the spirit of the Rockies to life on canvas.
What You Can Expect
Through Doug’s relaxed, down-to-earth teaching style, you’ll dive into the essentials of painting majestic peaks, serene lakes, and captivating reflections. Doug starts with the fundamentals of landscape composition, guiding you through techniques that bring authenticity and depth to your work. With his friendly, supportive approach, even complex techniques feel within reach, empowering you to capture the Rockies with confidence.
Mastering the Landscape
Oil, acrylic, or gouache—choose your medium! Doug will show you how to create impact and texture with each one. Working with a limited palette, you’ll explore how just a few colors can capture the full spectrum of mountain light, shade, and atmosphere. Doug will share his favorite techniques for creating depth, controlling light, and bringing out the natural beauty of rugged rock and reflective water.
What You’ll Learn
- Day 1: Evening reception and artist demo at Art on 9th
- Day 2: Start with foundational studies on mountain forms, exploring shapes and layers that create a sense of vastness. You’ll work on simplifying complex scenes and building a strong composition, focusing on capturing the character of rock formations and forested hillsides.
- Day 2: Move deeper into techniques for adding movement, shadow, and light, focusing on the reflections in lakes and the interplay of colors. Doug will guide you through refining your piece with subtle details and textures that make your landscape feel alive and immersive.
By the end of the weekend, you’ll have a toolkit filled with new techniques, a deeper understanding of mountain landscapes, and a few completed studies to showcase your progress. Join us for a fun, enriching weekend where you’ll learn to paint landscapes with passion and precision—all while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies.
