Amid the towering granite monoliths and serene meadows of Yosemite Valley, this beginner gouache painting class led by Jessica de Jesus invites art-curious visitors to explore the joy of painting in a supportive, hands-on environment. Through bite-sized demos and approachable exercises, you’ll gain confidence with brushstrokes, color mixing, and creative expression—learning not just how to paint, but how to see. With an emphasis on slowing down and observing the details of the natural world, this class encourages you to use art as a way of telling your own story, one color and brushstroke at a time. Jessica brings a toolkit of tips, tricks, and gentle guidance to help you build skills while staying playful and open to experimentation. Whether it’s your first time holding a brush or you’re looking to reconnect with your creative side, this class offers a vibrant, low-pressure way to engage with the landscape—and your own artistic potential.
- Experience level: Beginners welcome; no experience required! Participants must be ages 12+, and all participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- What’s included: Four hours of art instruction and all art supplies needed for the duration of class!
- Please note registration is only for a single day of class, but you may sign up for multiple days of class if you wish.
- Advanced registration required.
- What to Bring: Click here for a list of general gear to bring with you.
- Location: Happy Isles Art and Nature Center (Shuttle Stop 16). All workshops will be held outside, weather permitting.
- Time: 9 am to 1 pm, with classes recurring Monday–Friday
- Financial Aid: For those with a genuine need of financial assistance to enable their participation in an art class, please email art@yosemite.org.
