Join Telagio Baptista for an in-person workshop on April 18, 2026!

No Fear Portrait Painting
A watercolor workshop by Telagio Baptista

Saturday, April 18 • 10-5 PM (Registration deadline: APRIL 10)
MEMBERS: $125/person • Non-Members: $140/person

Creating an exceptional watercolor portrait is achievable—and this workshop will show you how.

Join artist Telagio Baptista for a guided, hands-on experience focused on building confidence and skill in portrait painting.

 

 

What to expect
Paint a realistic or impressionist-style portrait
Learn techniques for conveying emotion
Blend natural-looking skin tones
Paint hair and clothing with depth and movement
Develop confidence in rendering eyes, noses, and mouths
Whether you’re looking to strengthen your skills or try portrait painting for the first time, this workshop will provide practical instruction and encouraging guidance.

Supply List
Participants need to bring the following supplies:

  • Reference Photos – 
    • It’s important to choose several photos (man, lady, child, or grandchild) in a 3/4 facial view that portray emotion. Bring several to choose from. A straightforward image is less appealing.
    • You can bring your smartphone, a photo off the wall, or a photo from the photo album to OfficeMax to produce an 11″x14″ image in black and white and full color (reference) on bond paper.
  • Paper – 
    • A 300-lb weight sheet (22×30) is recommended for best results (Arches Cold-Press). You can cut it down to size.
  • Brushes
    • A set of round brushes
    • This is a good set on Amazon if you need: 5 Mop Squirrel brushes (black with a blue ring, #4, #6. #10, #12 – $9.99.)
  • Paint
    • Winsor &Newton Cotman watercolor 8mi tube set $13.19, or bring what you have
    • The Best Primary Trio for Skin Tones. Check with the art stores or Amazon for the best price.

      🔴 RED: Quinacridone Rose, or Permanent Red in tube

      • Clean, transparent, and mixes without chalkiness.
      • Ideal for blush, lips, and subtle warmth.
      • Why it works:It leans slightly cool, so when mixed with yellow, it creates a believable peach without turning orange.
      • Supported by portrait guides that recommend cool reds like quinacridone roseor alizarin crimson for natural skin accents.

      🟡 YELLOW: Yellow Ochre, or Raw Sienna in tube

      • Earthy, muted, and perfect for the golden base of skin.
      • Why it works:These yellows already sit close to natural skin temperature—warm but not neon.
      • Commonly used in professional portrait palettes.

      🔵 BLUE: Ultramarine Blue in tube

      • A gentle, warm-leaning blue that creates natural shadows.
      • Why it works:Ultramarine neutralizes reds and yellows, turning them into soft browns without going muddy.
      • Recommended widely for cooling shadows and mixing neutrals.
  •  (Optional) Palette –
    • The instructor will provide a palette or you may bring what you have

Provided supplies will include: a palette (if needed), mounting board, tape, water containers (we will used mason jars)

The cost for the workshop is $125 for members and $140 for non-members.
Please note, cancellations made at least two (2) weeks prior to the event date are eligible for a refund, minus a 10% administrative fee. Cancellations made less than two (2) weeks prior to the event date are not eligible for a refund, however registration may be transferred to another participant.

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About the Instructor
Telagio Baptista
Storytelling Through a Single Image

Telagio has had a passion for the visual arts since childhood, which he views as a blessed gift.
After receiving several art awards in high school, he earned a scholarship, refined his skills at the Fine Arts Institute and the College of Arts and Crafts, and completed his education.
Telagio established a successful, award-winning graphic design studio in Hawaii, where he operated for 20 years.
Upon returning to his hometown in Sacramento, California, he fully committed himself to pursuing his passion for watercolor painting through workshops, competitions, and exhibitions in Northern California.
Telagio’s paintings combine elements of realism and impressionism, showcasing a diverse array of subjects, including portraits, figurative works, landscapes, seascapes, and animals. His artistic process is marked by exceptional attention to detail and strong values. Telagio frequently employs “negative space” to frame his images, enabling his paintings to “breathe” and evoke particular feelings or moods in the viewer.
Telagio lives in Omaha, Nebraska, where he hosts annual watercolor workshops and exhibitions throughout the state and in other states. He is an award-winning artist with Signature Status from both the Society of Watercolor Artists and the Rhode Island Watercolor Society, among others. He stays active in exhibitions and has also served as a juror for various shows.
Encouragement and support for each student characterize his teaching method. He brings his God-given and professional painting talent and enthusiasm to his workshops, encouraging his students to speak “loud and clear” with their hearts and brushes.