Strong Foundations, Successful Outcomes

Painting Foundations Workshop with Dara Dodson

Friday, May 29 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

at the St. Augustine Art Association

Join artist Dara Dodson for an inspiring one-day workshop designed to strengthen your painting foundations and build confidence in your process!

A successful painting begins with a strong start. In this workshop, artist Dara Dodson guides students through completing an 11″ x 14″ painting from start to finish while introducing a powerful approach to establishing composition and values early in the process.

Rather than relying solely on drawing, participants develop the composition directly in paint, allowing the idea to take shape clearly on the canvas. This method helps artists evaluate their design, adjust values, and resolve potential issues before color is applied—leading to a more cohesive and satisfying final painting.

Together, the class will paint a marsh scene at sunset, offering the opportunity to explore light, atmosphere, and strong compositional design while creating a beautiful Florida landscape.

This workshop is open to artists of all skill levels.

About the Instructor

Dara Dodson is an award-winning artist who specializes in representational landscapes inspired by the flora and fauna of Florida. A member of the St. Augustine Art Association and the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society, she draws strong influence from the Hudson River School of painting.

Her work is driven by a passion for creating scenes that transport viewers to a place of tranquility and peace—inviting them to relax, breathe, and perhaps even share a moment of joy. Dara knew she wanted to be an artist at the age of five and earned her first art award in the 10th grade. After six years of formal training, she continues to study under well-known artists while also teaching art herself.

Dara currently resides in St. Augustine and remains dedicated to painting for a lifetime!

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$125 for STAAA Members | $150 for Non-Members

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By submitting the electronic registration form and payment, I hereby release, discharge, indemnify, and hold harmless the St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA) and any and all agents, including staff, board members and volunteers of STAAA from any liability, claim, cause of action, demand or damages from injury, illness, or damages of any kind as a result of my participation in the Strong Foundations, Successful Outcomes workshop with Dara Dodson. I understand that refunds will only be given at the sole discretion of the St. Augustine Art Association. No refunds will be issued after 7 days prior to first day of workshop commencement. Any refund is subject to a processing fee. I agree to abide by any rules established for the workshop and to work within the parameters of instruction. I give permission for the St. Augustine Art Association to use my image, or images of me and my artwork in promotion and marketing materials.

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STAAA Workshops and Educational Programming are generously sponsored by:

Programs & Exhibits of the St. Augustine Art Association are funded in part by grants from the the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council, the St. Johns County Cultural Council, and the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida.