- LanguagePortuguese, English
- Duration3H
- DifficultyBeginner
- Next Date01/05/2026
Watercolor painting workshop in Algarve for anyone who wants to slow down, connect with the coast and leave with a framed painting they made themselves as a genuine memory of their time here. Led by Catarina Olefir, founder of Art do Sol Painting Studio and a professional watercolor artist who studied with the world’s leading contemporary watercolor painters, this relaxed and unhurried experience takes place in an ocean-view café setting and is designed for presence and memory-making rather than technical perfection. No experience needed and children from age 10 are always welcome.
Each session is tied to a specific location and theme along the Algarve coast, from the golden cliffs of Portimão and the underwater world of Carvoeiro to the romantic river reflections of Tavira and the sun-soaked bay of Ferragudo. Catarina guides you step by step through simple watercolor techniques that let you capture the atmosphere of wherever you are sitting, the light, the colour, the particular mood of that stretch of coast on that particular day. The session closes with a framed watercolor artwork that is yours to take home. The exact location is shared after booking confirmation.
What you’ll learn
🌊 Simple watercolor techniques for capturing coastal light, colour and atmosphere
🌊 How to approach an oceanscape with confidence and personal expression
🌊 Basic wet-on-wet and layering techniques adapted for complete beginners
🌊 How to use watercolor intuitively to record a feeling rather than reproduce a photograph
🌊 How to finish and frame a watercolor painting to take home as a keepsake
What’s included
🎨 All watercolor materials and equipment
🎨 Full step-by-step guidance from Catarina Olefir throughout
🎨 A framed watercolor painting painted by you to take home
🎨 A relaxed and creative atmosphere in an ocean-view location
What you leave with
A framed watercolor painting of the Algarve coast made by your own hand, a simple and repeatable painting technique, and a memory of an afternoon spent actually being present somewhere beautiful.
I am Catarina Olefir, founder of Art do Sol Painting Studio and a watercolor artist based in Portugal. I used to be a doctor, but followed my heart and became an artist. I have studied with the world’s leading contemporary watercolor painters and my work is held in private collections and exhibitions from the USA to Australia. Today what I love most is sharing the joy of watercolor and gently guiding people to capture the light and beauty of the Algarve, one painting at a time, regardless of experience.
Open to adults and children from age 10 upward. No prior painting experience needed. Exact location shared after booking confirmation.
Related Tags: Arts & Crafts, Painting
FAQ
Do I need any painting experience to join?
Not at all. This workshop is designed for complete beginners as well as those with some experience. You’ll be gently guided step by step, so all you need is curiosity and a willingness to relax and create.
What will I create during the workshop?
You will paint your own watercolor oceanscape inspired by the Algarve coast. By the end of the session, you’ll have a finished, framed artwork to take home as a meaningful souvenir.
What’s included in the workshop?
All materials are provided, including paints, paper, and tools. You’ll also receive step-by-step guidance, a relaxed creative atmosphere, and your completed framed painting to keep.
Is this a structured class or a more relaxed experience?
This is not a traditional art class. It’s a slow, mindful creative experience focused on relaxation, presence, and personal expression—more about enjoying the process than achieving perfection.
Where does the workshop take place?
Location changes every month to ensure, but it is confirmed upon reservation. It is never more than 20/30 minutes away from Portimão.
We are a family. Can my child join?
Absolutely! We welcome children from 10 years old onwards. Before, it can get quite tricky and it is a long class and children have not yet developed the skill set required to be in this class!
More from this Teacher
More about your Teacher Art do Sol
Founder of Art do Sol Painting Studio - Catarina Olefir
Catarina is an artist and teacher based in Portugal. She used to be a doctor, but followed her heart and became an artist. She has studied with the world’s leading contemporary watercolor painters. Her artworks are held in private collections and exhibitions from the USA to Australia. Today she loves sharing the joy of watercolor and gently guiding you to capture the light and beauty of the Algarve—no experience needed. You will take home your own painting as a unique souvenir from Portugal.
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