HURRY A FEW EASELS LEFT! Where the Water Falls, Inspiration Flows — A Watercolor Workshop in Wisconsin’s Northwoods

by Dale L Popovich IWS

CLICK ON THE IMAGE ABOVE

SPACES ARE LIMITED
​There’s something timeless about the way water moves through the wilderness—how it carves its way over stone, glistens under a canopy of leaves, and echoes through the quiet hush of pine forests. It’s a language all its own. And if you listen closely, you can almost hear it speaking—inviting you to slow down, to pay attention, and maybe, to paint.
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I’ve followed that voice along one of Wisconsin’s hidden gems: the Northern Waterfall Loop. It’s a road trip filled with winding forest roads, mossy trails, and more than a dozen breathtaking waterfalls—each one different, each one unforgettable. Some roar with the power of spring runoff; others trickle gently over ancient granite, barely making a sound. But all of them offer something that every watercolor artist craves: movement, light, and mood.

This June, I’m bringing that inspiration to life in my 4-day watercolor workshop at Dillman’s Bay Resort—a peaceful retreat nestled among towering pines on the shores of White Sand Lake in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin.

Rivers, Rapids & Waterfalls in Watercolor
​June 1–6, 2025 (4 Teaching Days)
Dillman's Bay Resort
Lac du Flambeau, WI

This workshop is more than just an opportunity to learn watercolor techniques. It's a creative escape into nature—an invitation to immerse yourself in Wisconsin's Northwoods' sights, sounds, and spirit.

I'll share some of my favorite scenes from the Northern Waterfall Loop—locations I've photographed and sketched along the way. These aren't just generic waterfalls pulled from a Google search. They're places I've stood, listened to, and painted. Places where the water told me a story—and now, I want to help you tell yours.

WHAT YOU WILL  LEARN 
During our four days together, we'll dive deep into the techniques needed to capture the life and energy of moving water. Whether it's the glassy surface of a still pool, the sparkle of sunlight on a riffle, or the powerful drop of a rushing cascade, you'll learn how to translate those qualities into expressive, confident brushwork.

Here's what you can expect:

• Daily demonstrations and paint-along sessions focused on specific elements of rivers, rapids, and waterfalls.
• Personalized instruction and feedback tailored to your individual experience level and goals
• A 32-page curated workbook featuring photo references, value studies, and step-by-step exercises you can revisit long after the workshop ends.​

• Tips and techniques for painting water in motion, creating believable transparency, and layering light with confident color choices
• A relaxed, supportive atmosphere where you're encouraged to experiment, explore, and ask questions

Whether you're a seasoned plein air painter or just starting to feel comfortable with watercolor, there's something here for everyone.

A PLACE TH RECHARGE 
There's no better setting for this workshop than Dillman's Bay Resort. Located on a peaceful peninsula jutting into White Sand Lake, it's a place where the outside world fades away. You'll wake to the call of loons, paint beneath a canopy of trees, and end your day with a lakeside sunset that begs to be captured in watercolor.

Dillman's offers cozy lakeside lodging and an atmosphere that's equal parts rustic charm and creative community. You'll have time to paint and breathe—to walk the woods, dip your toes in the lake, or share stories and laughs with fellow artists around the fire.

And if you're bringing a non-painting companion, there's plenty for them to enjoy, too—from hiking, fishing, golfing, or paddling to simply relaxing with a book on the dock.

WHY RIVER, RAPIDS & WATERFALLS?
Water is some of nature's most expressive form. It in constant motion, ever-changing, yet timeless. For an artist, they offer a perfect balance of structure and spontaneity—challenging to capture but deeply rewarding.

Painting water teaches you to observe light, simplify complex shapes, and build dynamic compositions. But it also teaches you patience. You learn to let the water—and the watercolor—move as it wants to, flowing freely and beautifully across the page.

In this workshop, you'll discover that the key to painting moving water isn't control—it's understanding. It's learning when to lead and when to follow. When to hold your brush still—and when to let it dance.

FROM THE FALLS TO YOUR PAPER
Over the years, I've developed a deep love for the water of the Northwoods. Some of my favorites include:

• Kakabika Falls, with its dramatic canyon and rust-colored rock
• Pioneer Creek, Is a gentle, accessible beauty that feels like a hidden treasure 
• Bond Falls, impressive cascading waterfall is 100 feet wide with a total drop of about 50 feet. It's beautiful during any season, especially in the fall 
• Jumbo Falls, remote, small but mighty, framed by ancient pines

Each one offers a unique voice—and in our workshop, you'll learn to listen to that voice and translate it into a painting that reflects your experience.

A CREATIVE ESCAPE TOO 
We rush through life—checking boxes, answering emails, planning what's next. But something happens when you step into the forest, stand beside a water, and take out your sketchbook.

✅ You slow down.

✅ You observe.

✅ You breathe.

And in that quiet, something opens up.
That's what this workshop is really about. Not just painting water but also letting them remind you why you fell in love with art in the first place.

READY TO JOIN ME?
If this sounds like the creative retreat your soul has longed for, I'd be honored to paint alongside you this June.

SPACES ARE LIMITED
And this workshop tends to fill quickly—so I encourage you to reserve your spot soon.
Let the Northwoods stir your imagination.
Let the water guide your brush.
Let's paint something unforgettable—together.

13277 Dillman's Way
Lac du Flambeau, WI 54538
715-588-3143
[email protected]

START YIUR ARTISTIC JOURNEY HERE

​About  DALE L POPOVICH
Dale is an American professional watercolor artist and educator with over 46+ years of experience. Known for capturing the quiet beauty of the Midwest landscape, Dale teaches workshops and classes nationwide and deeply believes in nature's power to inspire creativity.

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