News

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

Solitary Sandpiper by Barbara Benda©2025

5 Day Beginning Drawing and Watercolor Workshop

This workshop includes sketching techniques, understanding the color wheel, how to use lights and darks to create contrast, and learning about composition to create successful watercolor paintings. All exercises start at the beginning and proceed step-by-step.

Date: January 12-16^th, 2026

Time: 9:00 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday with lunch on your own

Location: Vista Center for Education Room #120, 2777 34th St. S Moorhead, MN 56560

Participant Profile: for all levels of learner, ages 15 and up.

Registration and payment is taken through Moorhead Community Education  or by phone at 218-284-3400.

Cost: $425 plus professional-grade supplies.  (Moorhead residents $399.) Download the Supply List . Limited ready-made supply kits are available for $225 by contacting instructor. It is important to order supplies in advance of the workshop to ensure you receive them in time. I recommend ordering supplies through Jerry’s Artarama online. Please contact me with any questions.

Download a flyer here

Class is limited to 15 students. Minimum number of students is 8.

It’s not too soon to sign up! This workshop is only offered once a year in the Fargo-Moorhead area, so register today to secure your spot. Thank you!