In the Studio with Artist and Instructor Chris Potts
Today, we’re going In the Studio with artist Chris Potts. His stunning watercolor paintings often showcase the beauty of his natural environment.
Chris Potts, a burgeoning watercolor artist painting for the past four years, wields color and brush with finesse. His sweeping landscapes evoke a private serenity in his works. His pieces have graced galleries and shows regionally and in Annapolis, earning acclaim from both peers and enthusiasts. A new educator at Chesapeake Arts Center, Chris shares his learned skills, nurturing budding artists.
Here’s Chris talking about his art, process and experience…
- Please tell me a little bit about yourself.
I didn’t begin painting until the late age of 31 in order to deal with the deaths of several close friends, and personal trauma. Currently I reside just outside of downtown Annapolis. Most days I can be found doing watercolor, hanging outside, or in my studio listening to classic rock and jazz.
- What drew you into teaching?
I have been teaching since I was first able to learn! I find that sharing knowledge comes naturally to me, and in order to better myself in my art skills I gravitated towards teaching art recently. I am hoping it opens up the greater art community for me as well.
- Tell me about the classes you teach.
Currently I am offering landscape and beginner watercolor courses in order to help expand my peers' knowledge of the arts!
- What excites you about being an instructor here at CAC?
I am super excited to connect with the local art community and meet like-minded artists looking to practice and hone their art skills.
- What advice would you give students who may want to pursue a career in the arts?
Definitely one piece of advice: be prepared to be awful at something before you make something worthwhile. It takes dedication and practice to make art every day. That's pressure! And, making art just to be creative with no real goal in mind is a good way to relax from that pressure. The imagination works kind of like a muscle. If you exercise, it will get stronger, but it’s just as important to live healthy and rest or you will get fatigued.
- What else are you working on personally or professionally?
Personally, I am working on painting in my “style” and learning what works for me in watercolor. I am thinking of transitioning into other mediums as well like acrylic and oil in order to expand my art toolbox. I would really like to paint a huge wall sized painting someday soon!
To learn more about Chris and his artwork, check out his instagram, or his website.
Sign up for Chris’ watercolor workshop!
Watercolor Cityscape Workshop
Ages 16+
Sunday, September 24, 2023
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Members $20, Non-Members $25
Learn the tips and tricks to creating beautiful watercolor paintings from reference images in this one day workshop. Develop basic watercolor painting skills, including composition, mixing and more. All supplies included.
