Taking an Artist Workshop in Sedona, Arizona

At the Sedona Arts Center - MMSikes

We just returned from an awesome and intense 10 days in Sedona, Arizona. I traveled there because I have long admired the work of artist Jan Sitts, and I wanted to take one of her workshops.

After her class at Cheap Joe's in Boone, NC was cancelled last summer, I found that Jan teaches workshops at the Sedona Arts Center in Sedona, the beguiling destination that is the setting for my novel, Eagle Rising. After much consideration, I decided to sign up for the workshop. Since we needed to fly, I would be unable to carry all the supplies I normally take in our car. Therefore, I ordered a limited amount of materials from Utrecht and got them shipped to the Art Center.

The full class of 16 students watched Jan demonstrate her method of working with experimental water media. Using multiple materials, intense color, and lots of layers, she inspired an amazing number of outstanding art pieces created during four days of passionate, concentrated work.

Jan Sitts introduction the first day - MMSikes

Jan winding down the final day - MMSikes

It's always sad to reach the end of a workshop, but, along with everyone else, I headed home inspired and grateful for the opportunity to learn and expand my painting horizons. Although I missed having all the acrylic colors, watercolors, and inks I enjoy using, I survived with my limited palette!

Thank you, Jan!

--Mary Montague Sikes