3 Days Watercolor Workshop in Nuremberg: Portrait Course

April 9 to 11, 2027
Daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
A one-hour lunch break is included.

Location: da Vinci Studio, Tillystraße 39-41, 90431 Nuremberg

In this workshop, participants will learn the watercolor technique developed by Rabi Alieva. It combines a clear understanding of proportions, light and tonal values with a free, slightly abstract visual language. Transparent layers of color, lively brushstrokes and the deliberate omission of details create space for personal expression.

The focus is on each participant’s own interpretation of a reference. Participants will learn how to mix natural skin tones, develop engaging compositions and combine structure with spontaneous color transitions. At the end, each participant will take home an original portrait with their own artistic signature.

Day 1: Discover, understand and sketch

We begin with a one-and-a-half-hour guided tour of the da Vinci factory and experience how the legendary brushes are made. Afterwards, we will explore facial proportions, shapes, light and shadow. Through several portrait sketches, we will practise simplifying forms and developing expressive compositions.

Day 2: Female portrait using Rabi Alieva’s technique

We will paint a female portrait using transparent layers of color and free, expressive brushwork. We will combine clear forms with abstract elements and learn how to create depth without losing the luminosity of watercolor.

Day 3: Male portrait and personal expression

A male portrait painted using the wet-on-wet technique offers room for soft transitions, spontaneous color flows and individual interpretation. We will add carefully placed accents and develop each participant’s own artistic signature.

All materials are included. Each participant will also receive a da Vinci Rabi Alieva brush set and a detailed PDF portrait guide for continued practice at home.

Cancellation

A cancellation can be made at any time by email. For cancellations made up to 31 days before the workshop begins, a processing fee of €10 will be charged. The following cancellation fees apply:

-  From 30 to 15 days before the course begins, 20% of the workshop fee.
-  From 14 to 8 days before the course begins, 50% of the workshop fee.
-  From 7 days before the course begins, 100% of the workshop fee.