• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Degrees
Log In
Join for Free
  • Browse
  • Watercolor

Watercolor Courses

Watercolor courses can help you learn color mixing, brush techniques, layering, and composition. You can build skills in creating washes, understanding light and shadow, and developing your unique style. Many courses introduce tools like watercolor paints, brushes, and various types of paper, showing how these materials can enhance your artistic expression and technique.


Popular Watercolor Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Learn to Draw

    Skills you'll gain: Technical Drawing, Growth Mindedness, Lifelong Learning, Goal Setting, Personal Development, Design Elements And Principles, Graphical Tools, Creativity

    4.1
    Rating, 4.1 out of 5 stars
    ·
    17 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    How to Draw: A Beginner’s Guide Pt 1 – Basic Shapes

    Skills you'll gain: Design Elements And Principles, Creativity

    4.2
    Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
    ·
    13 reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Portrait Photography

    Skills you'll gain: Photo Editing, Photography, Adobe Photoshop, Image Quality, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Storytelling, Content Creation, Adobe Creative Cloud, Creativity, Editing, Color Theory

    2.8
    Rating, 2.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Florida

    Healing with the Arts

    Skills you'll gain: Journals, Music, Performing Arts, Mindfulness, Empowerment, Storytelling, Personal Development, Liberal Arts, Self-Awareness, Emotional Intelligence, Writing

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    998 reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    ChatGPT for Creatives: AI for SEO, Marketing & Workflow

    Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, ChatGPT, Copywriting, AI Workflows, Blogs, Content Creation, Target Audience, Writing and Editing, Social Media Content, Business Research

    4.2
    Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
    ·
    11 reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Preview
    Preview
    M

    Michigan State University

    Digital Painting Specialization

    Skills you'll gain: Color Theory, Adobe Illustrator, Digital Design, Creativity, Image Quality, Design

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free
    Free
    C

    Coursera

    Adobe Illustrator for Beginners: Create Vector Artwork

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Illustrator, Color Theory, Graphic and Visual Design, Design, Design Elements And Principles, Graphic Design, Logo Design, Typography, Adobe Creative Cloud, File Management

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    29 reviews

    Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    T

    The Museum of Modern Art

    Artful Practices for Well-Being

    Skills you'll gain: Compassion, Self-Awareness, Creativity, Personal Development, Empathy, Optimism, Mindfulness, Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, Curiosity, Stress Management, Storytelling

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    23 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    Adobe

    Photoshop image editing, compositing and AI

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Firefly, Adobe Photoshop, Photo Editing, Storytelling, Adobe Creative Cloud, Generative AI Agents, Data Import/Export, Image Quality, Color Theory, Generative AI, Photography, Graphic and Visual Design, Editing, Creative Design, Design Elements And Principles, Design Software, Design, Creative Thinking, Creativity, Portfolio Management

    4.3
    Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
    ·
    12 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    Adobe

    Create and Enhance Visuals With AI

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Firefly, Storyboarding, Adobe Express, Prompt Engineering, Responsible AI, Data Ethics, Collaborative Software, Creativity, Adobe Creative Cloud, Prompt Engineering Tools, AI Enablement, Generative AI, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Creative Thinking, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Creative Design, Storytelling, Branding, Content Development and Management

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    12 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    Adobe

    Creative Design Tools: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat

    Skills you'll gain: Photo Editing, Adobe Illustrator, Color Theory, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, Typography, Document Management, Graphic and Visual Design, Graphic Design, Graphics Software, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Photography, Generative AI, Design, Adobe Creative Cloud, Design Elements And Principles, Workflow Management, Digital Design, Collaborative Software, Branding

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    558 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Status: AI skills
    AI skills
    A

    Adobe

    Adobe Graphic Designer: Design that Demands Attention

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Express, Adobe Photoshop, Responsible AI, Logo Design, Digital Design, Layout Design, Generative AI, Graphic Design, Graphics Software, Adobe Firefly, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, Visual Design, File Management, Process Design, Design Reviews, Prompt Engineering, Image Quality, Branding, Storytelling

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.5K reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

1234…9

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular watercolor courses

  • Learn to Draw: Skillshare
  • How to Draw: A Beginner’s Guide Pt 1 – Basic Shapes: Skillshare
  • Portrait Photography: Skillshare
  • Healing with the Arts: University of Florida
  • ChatGPT for Creatives: AI for SEO, Marketing & Workflow: Skillshare
  • Digital Painting Specialization: Michigan State University
  • Adobe Illustrator for Beginners: Create Vector Artwork: Coursera
  • Artful Practices for Well-Being: The Museum of Modern Art
  • Photoshop image editing, compositing and AI: Adobe
  • Create and Enhance Visuals With AI: Adobe

Frequently Asked Questions about Watercolor

Watercolor is a painting technique that uses pigments suspended in a water-based solution. This medium is known for its transparency and fluidity, allowing artists to create soft washes and intricate details. Watercolor is important not only for its artistic value but also for its accessibility; it can be used by beginners and experienced artists alike. The unique qualities of watercolor can evoke emotions and convey messages in ways that other mediums may not, making it a vital form of expression in the art world.‎

Careers related to watercolor can vary widely, including roles such as fine artist, illustrator, art teacher, and graphic designer. Artists who specialize in watercolor may find opportunities in galleries, publishing, or freelance work. Additionally, skills in watercolor can enhance a portfolio for jobs in fields like advertising or marketing, where visual storytelling is key. Those who enjoy teaching can also explore positions in educational institutions or workshops, sharing their passion for watercolor with others.‎

To learn watercolor effectively, you should develop several key skills. First, understanding color theory is essential, as it helps in mixing and applying colors harmoniously. Brush techniques, such as wet-on-wet and dry brush, are also crucial for achieving different effects. Additionally, learning about composition and perspective can enhance your artwork. Practicing patience and observation will improve your ability to capture details and nuances in your subjects. Finally, experimenting with different papers and brushes will help you find the tools that best suit your style.‎

Some of the best online watercolor courses focus on foundational skills, techniques, and creative expression. Look for courses that cover color mixing, brush techniques, and composition. Courses that provide feedback from instructors or peer reviews can also enhance your learning experience. While specific course recommendations may vary, exploring options that align with your skill level and artistic goals will help you find the right fit.‎

Yes. You can start learning watercolor on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many watercolor courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in watercolor, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

To learn watercolor, start by gathering basic supplies such as watercolor paints, brushes, and paper. Begin with online tutorials or courses that introduce you to fundamental techniques. Practice regularly, experimenting with different styles and subjects. Joining online communities or local art groups can provide support and inspiration. As you progress, consider setting personal projects or challenges to keep your motivation high and track your improvement.‎

Typical topics covered in watercolor courses include color theory, brush techniques, layering, and composition. Many courses also explore specific styles, such as landscape, portrait, or abstract watercolor. Additionally, some courses may include lessons on how to use watercolor in mixed media or digital applications. Understanding these topics will help you build a solid foundation and expand your creative possibilities.‎

For training and upskilling employees or the workforce in watercolor, look for courses that emphasize practical applications and creative problem-solving. Programs that integrate watercolor techniques with design thinking or marketing strategies can be particularly beneficial. Courses that encourage collaboration and project-based learning can also enhance team dynamics and foster innovation within the workplace.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

Other topics to explore

Arts and Humanities
338 courses
Business
1095 courses
Computer Science
668 courses
Data Science
425 courses
Information Technology
145 courses
Health
471 courses
Math and Logic
70 courses
Personal Development
137 courses
Physical Science and Engineering
413 courses
Social Sciences
401 courses
Language Learning
150 courses

Coursera Footer

Skills

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Analytics
  • Digital Marketing
  • English Speaking
  • Generative AI (GenAI)
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Power BI
  • Project Management
  • Python

Certificates & Programs

  • Google Cybersecurity Certificate
  • Google Data Analytics Certificate
  • Google IT Support Certificate
  • Google Project Management Certificate
  • Google UX Design Certificate
  • IBM Data Analyst Certificate
  • IBM Data Science Certificate
  • Machine Learning Certificate
  • Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Certificate
  • UI / UX Design Certificate

Industries & Careers

  • Business
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Education & Teaching
  • Engineering
  • Finance
  • Healthcare
  • Human Resources (HR)
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Marketing

Career Resources

  • Career Aptitude Test
  • Examples of Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews
  • High-Income Skills to Learn
  • How Does Cryptocurrency Work?
  • How to Highlight Duplicates in Google Sheets
  • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
  • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
  • Preparing for the PMP Certification
  • Signs You Will Get the Job After an Interview
  • What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Coursera

  • About
  • What We Offer
  • Leadership
  • Careers
  • Catalog
  • Coursera Plus
  • Professional Certificates
  • MasterTrack® Certificates
  • Degrees
  • For Enterprise
  • For Government
  • For Campus
  • Become a Partner
  • Social Impact
  • Free Courses
  • Share your Coursera learning story

Community

  • Learners
  • Partners
  • Beta Testers
  • Blog
  • The Coursera Podcast
  • Tech Blog

More

  • Press
  • Investors
  • Terms
  • Privacy
  • Help
  • Accessibility
  • Contact
  • Articles
  • Directory
  • Affiliates
  • Modern Slavery Statement
  • Do Not Sell/Share
Learn Anywhere
Download on the App Store
Get it on Google Play
Logo of Certified B Corporation
© 2026 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
  • Coursera Facebook
  • Coursera Linkedin
  • Coursera Twitter
  • Coursera YouTube
  • Coursera Instagram
  • Coursera TikTok