Barbara Benda

Dee-Dee at Sunrise by Barbara Benda

January got off to a great start and I’ve already completed the 2026 Beginning Drawing and Watercolor workshop which  took place through Moorhead Community Education. Beverly and I  had ten enthusiastic students who were raring to learn and improve their watercolor skills. We had a great classroom with great lighting and a large screen, but the best part is the students themselves! Each person adds to the dynamic energy of the group and it is a blessing to all who participate.

I will be offering my 2nd level class, Designing Watercolors for Success, either in the fall or next winter, although no dates have been determined at this time. If you took my workshop in January, your homework is to practice, practice, practice. Strive to sketch or paint at least 20 minutes a day and it will become a daily habit. The winter will fly by!

On January 30-31st,  I will be teaching children how to watercolor a Black-Capped Chickadee at the Fargo Public Library. Both classes are filled. These classes are paid for by grant money and offered to children for “free”. Nothing is free in reality, so please thank the library staff for offering these classes for children. It is their hard work writing grants that makes these classes available to children at no charge.

I have just completed my submissions for the Spring/Summer session through Moorhead Community Education in Moorhead, MN. My sketching classes and Acrylic Mixed Media workshops will be advertised in the next catalog, so be on the lookout. I’m offering “Let’s Sketch Figures!” for the first time.

While you’re waiting to take a class, please browse the website galleries and  let me know if you need to purchase an original artwork to brighten your walls this winter! I am happy to accommodate you in creating a grouping for any wall that needs some pizzazz. Know that not all my art is on the website. If you would like to schedule a private appointment to see hundreds of originals, please contact me at 218-443-1126.

Dee-Dee at Johnson Park by Barbara Benda

Sweet Spirit by Barbara Benda, Watecolor, Gouache, and Watersoluable Crayon

Merry Christmas! If you have a desire to purchase original artwork for a gift for your loved ones or for yourself, please contact me to arrange a private appointment this week by calling me at 218-443-1126. Do you need a showcase painting for a special room in your home? Please look over the gallery items on this website  and then we can make arrangements for you to see it in person. I have many small works of original art available for sale, in addition to what you see on the website. Homemade watercolor Christmas cards are a bonus to add to your shopping bag.

My Beginning Drawing and Watercolor 5-Day Workshop on January 12-16th, 2026 has 11 students signed up. If you would like to get registered, contact Moorhead Community Education as soon as possible. Purchasing professional-grade supplies are essential for this class. My supply kits are now sold-out, but I can assist you in helping you order the supplies you need.   For more information, click here:  2026 Beginning Drawing and Watercolor Flyer

2026 Supply Checklist

Strong and Courageous by Barbara Benda, Ink and Acrylic monoprint, ©2025

Due to the fabulous fall weather, I am announcing a 1-Day Only Holiday Sale at Mourning Dove Studio/Double Trouble Art Gallery  in Moorhead this coming Friday, November 21st from 10 am to 6 pm.

This sale features original watercolor Christmas cards, framed, unframed, and matted original paintings of all sizes, plus original art from my personal collection. Please bring the whole family to shop and purchase original art for those who would appreciate a gift of lasting value. I look forward to seeing you soon!

Location: Mourning Dove Studio/Double Trouble Art Gallery,  809 20th Street North, Moorhead,MN
Date and Time: Friday, November 21st, 10 am to 6 pm