Join watercolorist Joel Popadics, President of the Prestigious American Watercolor Society, for a weeklong outdoor painting workshop designed for artists of all levels—from those just starting out to experienced painters looking to refine their plein air technique.
Set among the scenic backdrop of the Greenville Arms 1889 Inn, this workshop takes place in the heart of the Hudson River Valley, a region known for its expansive fields, sweeping mountains, river views, historic buildings, and ever-changing skies. These surroundings will provide both inspiration and subject matter throughout the week.
Each day begins with an on-location demonstration, where Joel will share his approach to capturing light, atmosphere, and spatial depth using the Frank DuMond prismatic palette, which he has adapted for watercolor. Known for his mastery of greens and a strong, traditional foundation, Joel brings a practical, insightful perspective to the plein air process.
You’ll explore a variety of subjects—including trees, skies, architecture, boats, and animals—while developing techniques for mixing natural greens, painting believable skies and clouds, and using color to create depth and space. After each demo, you’ll have time to paint on your own with personalized instruction and feedback to support your progress.
Whether you’re looking to build confidence or deepen your understanding of watercolor, this workshop offers a focused, supportive environment to grow your skills and connect more deeply with your painting practice.
About Joel Popadics
Joel Popadics has been a professional artist for over 30 years. His watercolors have been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in galleries and museums across the United States including the National Academy of Art and Design in New York; the Place St. Charles Gallery in New Orleans and the San Francisco Academy of Art in San Francisco. He is an annual exhibitor in the “International Marine Art Exhibition” at the Maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport, Mystic, Connecticut.
Mr. Popadics is the recipient of numerous national awards. He has received the Edgar A. Whitney Memorial Award from the Hudson Valley Art Association; the Grumbacher Gold Medal from the California Watercolor Association and the Silver Medal of Honor (twice) from the New Jersey Watercolor Society (NJWCS). He has been featured many times in AMERICAN ARTIST, THE ARTIST’S MAGAZINE, WATERCOLOR ARTIST, and WATERCOLOR MAGIC MAGAZINES.
Popadics is an advocate of watercolor and has dedicated his career to the advancement and appreciation of the medium. He is President of the prestigious American Watercolor Society in New York City and a Past-President of the New Jersey Water Color Society. He has also served on the board of the Ridgewood Art Institute in Ridgewood, NJ, where he currently teaches watercolor and drawing to adults and children.
Joel Popadics was born in Passaic County, NJ in 1961. He received a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York. He is represented in some of the finest galleries in the Northeast. He resides in Wayne, NJ with his wife Patricia and their two sons.
Rates & Enrollment
Day Student Tuition: $1090.00
Full 5-Day Package*: $2,807.85 – $3,021.69
*5-Day Workshop Package includes: Tuition for 5 full class days, 6 nights of dinner, lodging, breakfast, daily cookie and fruit breaks, unlimited coffee and tea, and welcoming wine and cheese reception. Your choice between a room to yourself (single occupancy) or bring a friend and split a room (double occupancy).
Get more information about your options to enroll here.