watercolour help!

[crisgal]

during a recent trip to the lake district, my husband and i discovered we both had a desire to learn to paint. In our very busy lives, we thought it could be something we learn together, an excuse to spend some "us" time, perhaps joining a night school.
Does anyone know if classes advertised as beginner are really just that? Do you think we would have to buy lots of materials before we joined a class - or do they supply them?
thank you!

[vulcan]

when I attended art evening classes,found them to be a mixture of absolute beginners, intermediate and top amateur painters.
I never found any of the experts "looking down" on beginners as so often happens in other classes and sports.indeed the opposite was true,they would offer good advice and help on what to buy.
most painters found the classes an enjoyable, social gathering.
on the first few nights the instructor taught the beginners basic colour mixing,composition,perspective etc and he/she advised on what equipment to buy.
perhaps I was lucky in the classes I attended but over the years found them friendly,instructive and enjoyable.
go for it!

[Wak]

I also found classes organised in the evening by the local council very good and friendly.
You could also try the local library as they have excellent books on Water Colour painting, etc.

[DaisyMae]

You are better off going to classes rather than buying or borrowing teach yourself books. In classes the instructor tailors the activity to suit the abilities in his class and seldom actually shows you what to do, rather he suggests and encourages allowing you to develop. The problem with trying to learn from a book is that you cannot interact with it, and sometimes the standard is too good and can be very off-putting to outright beginners, and since you are basically copying someone else's work you would find it much harder to develop your own style.

It is an excellent idea and I hope you have lots of very rewarding days with a shared interest. Painting is very rewarding provided you don't get put off in the early stages, like all things, practice makes - well if not perfect then certainly a lot more acceptable and enjoyable. Good luck!