Kauai Art Classes with Marionette in Lihue November and December 2026 Watercolors and Acrylics

   Aloha and welcome to the "NEW" Painting Paradise!! 

If you would like to reserve your space in a class, please email Marionette at artbymarionette@yahoo.com or call or text her at 808-631-9173 because seating is limited.  Payment will be handled during the class.   

Painting Paradise is located in Lihue at the Puhi Industrial Center at 1824 Haleukana St. - front unit.

 

NEW!  Live Online Zoom Classes with Marionette!  Now you can get your art experience from anywhere in the world via Zoom!  For more info go to:

  https://kauaiartinstruction.blogspot.com/

 

IN PERSON ART CLASSES ON KAUAI  

 

Sunday, November 1   2 to 5 pm

 Leaf Printing in Acrylics  $75

 Have fun creating a tropical garden by learning how to print using the texture of actual leaves found around the island.  Then embellish using acrylic paints and acrylic markers.  Feel free to bring some of your own leaves that you find. No drawing or painting experience needed.  Beginners are welcome! 

 

Friday, November 6   5 to 7 pm

 Paint & Sip - Tropical Ocean Sunset in Watercolors  $50 

  

Paint and Sips are Party nights!  Feel free to BYOB and I will provide light snacks, coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

 

In this class you will learn how to create a vibrant ocean sunset that captures the magic of a Kaua‘i evening. First, we will build a colorful wet-on-wet sky while learning how to make clouds and a radiating sun. Next, we will learn techniques to paint the ocean and a rolling wave on the beach. Last, we will paint our mountains and add a few palm trees all while creating depth and texture. 

 

Saturday, November 7   1-3pm

 Pink Hibiscus in Watercolors  $50

  We’ll paint a soft, glowing pink hibiscus, capturing its velvety petals and the gentle curves that make this blossom so iconic. Using flowing washes, subtle gradients, and expressive brushwork, you’ll learn how to create depth and light to bring your hibiscus to life.

 

Sunday, November 8   2 to 5pm

Kalalau Valley in Acrylics  $75

 This class invites you to step into the breathtaking beauty of Kaua‘i’s most iconic lookout. With vibrant island colors and expressive brushstrokes, you’ll paint the majestic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. This class is all about capturing the rhythm, serenity, and mana of the islands while letting your creativity flow freely

 

 

Wednesday, November 11   1 to 4pm

Special Guest Artist, Gigi, will lead Paint Your Perfect Path in Acrylics $111

 Rediscover your childlike imagination.  What if your painting could reveal a portal to your purpose?  Through guided mediation, remote viewing, and intuitive painting explore the unseen and connect with your inner guidance.  Sign up with Marionette or text Gigi directly at 619-993-1838.

 

 

Thursday, November 12   5 to 7pm

Life Drawing   $20 with own materials ($30 if you need drawing materials)

This is an exciting opportunity to practice your drawing and sketching skills with a live model!  Instruction will be limited as I need to brush up on my drawing skills too, but I will provide some ideas and pointers for beginners.    

 

Friday, November 13   11am to 1pm

 Fantasy Flowers in Mixed Media  $50  

Using a joyful mix of watercolors, acrylics, pens, markers, and more, you’ll learn how to layer textures, build magical color transitions, and add enchanting details that make your flowers feel alive with personality and mana.

 

 

Saturday, November 14   5 to 7 pm

 Paint & Sip - Colorful Ocean in Acrylics  $50

Paint and Sips are Party nights!  Feel free to BYOB and I will provide light snacks, coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

 Learn to blend acrylic paint to create a vibrant sky and ocean and then add texture by creating waves and fluffy clouds.  We will be painting on a 9"x12" canvas.  Fun and easy for anyone!

 

 

 Sunday, November 15  2 to 5pm

Makana Sunset in Acrylics  $50 

 Learn how to blend radiant purples, pinks, oranges, and golds into a dreamy sky, create soft wave textures in shimmering blues and peach tones, and shape the dramatic silhouette of Mt. Makana during the sunset.

  

Wednesday, November 18  11am to 2pm

Honu in Acrylics  $75 

Capture the beauty and spirit of Hawaiʻi's beloved honu in this fun and beginner-friendly acrylic painting class! Using vibrant colors, expressive brushstrokes, and easy-to-follow techniques, you'll create a stunning sea turtle swimming through crystal blue tropical waters. Learn how to layer acrylic paints, blend soft ocean backgrounds, and add colorful details that bring the honu's shell to life with rich patterns and texture.

 

Thursday, November 19   11am to 1pm

 Bird of Paradise in Watercolors  $50

 

In this class, we will explore luminous washes, confident brushstrokes, and the playful dance between water and pigment that gives watercolor its irresistible charm to create the colorful and exotic Hawaiian bird of paradise flower.

 

Saturday, November 21  2 to 5pm

Paint and Sip Watercolors at Cabana Bar and Grill in Poipu   $50

Sunday, November 22   2 to 4pm

Rainbow Bamboo in Watercolor  $50

 

In this watercolor class, students paint radiant bamboo in a rainbow of hues, learning to balance color harmony and light. 

 

 

Wednesday, November 25   11am to 1pm

 Plumeria Trio in Watercolors  $50  

 In this class, you’ll learn how to create smooth shading, delicate transitions, and make each blossom feel sun‑kissed and alive. Perfect for beginners and seasoned painters alike, this session is all about color, flow, and the joyful spirit of island flowers.

 

Saturday, November 28   10am to Noon

Paint your own Mele Kalikimaka Ornaments and/or Rocks  $30

Paint your own set of wooden Christmas ornaments inspired by Hawai‘i’s tropical charm.  You’ll learn easy brush techniques, color layering, and how to add those whimsical details that make each ornament shine. All supplies are provided, and you’ll leave with beautifully finished keepsakes ready to hang on your tree or gift to someone special.

 Celebrate the holiday season with a fun, creative morning of painting festive Mele Kalikimaka rocks. I’ll provide lots of cool supplies and share painting tips and ideas to spark your imagination. Once your masterpiece is complete, we’ll seal the rocks so they’re weather‑ready and long‑lasting. Easy, relaxing, and perfect for all ages. Come paint, laugh, and create!

 

Thursday, December 3   5 to 7pm

Life Drawing   $20 with own materials ($30 if you need drawing materials)

This is an exciting opportunity to practice your drawing and sketching skills with a live model!  Instruction will be limited as I need to brush up on my drawing skills too, but I will provide some ideas and pointers for beginners.    

 

 

 Saturday, December 5  4 to 7pm

Honu in Acrylics  $75 

Capture the beauty and spirit of Hawaiʻi's beloved honu in this fun and beginner-friendly acrylic painting class! Using vibrant colors, expressive brushstrokes, and easy-to-follow techniques, you'll create a stunning sea turtle swimming through crystal blue tropical waters. Learn how to layer acrylic paints, blend soft ocean backgrounds, and add colorful details that bring the honu's shell to life with rich patterns and texture.

 

 

Sunday, December 6   1 to 4pm

Rainbow Colored Croton in Acrylics  $50 

Learn easy techniques for blending bold colors, creating beautiful leaf patterns, and adding depth and texture with acrylic paints. This tropical-inspired project is perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike, and you'll leave with a colorful island masterpiece that brightens any room.

 

 

 Friday, December 11    5 to 7pm

Paint & Sip - Beached Turtle in Watercolors  $50 

 

Paint and Sips are Party nights!  Feel free to BYOB and I will provide light snacks, coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

 

This watercolor class invites students to explore gentle washes, vibrant blends, and expressive color play while painting a joyful sea turtle. You’ll learn simple layering techniques, how to create luminous hues, and how to let the paint flow to capture movement and personality. It’s a relaxed, beginner‑friendly session designed to spark creativity and celebrate the magic of ocean life.

 

 

Saturday, December 12    11am to 4pm

Special Event:  Mele Kalikimaka Art Sale at Marionette's Art Studio!

Shop for REAL Kauai Made art and products.  I will have guest artists, coffee and cookies. 

Original art, Christmas ornaments, ceramic tiles, magnets, art prints, and much more!

 

Sunday, December 13   2 to 4pm

 Blue Cottage with Rooster in Watercolors $50

 Bring a sweet plantation cottage and proud Kaua‘i rooster to life using loose washes and expressive line work. First, we’ll lay in soft watercolor layers to capture the breezy palms, bright sky, and lush greenery. Then we’ll add pen‑and‑ink details to define the cottage’s character, the textures of the palms, and the rooster’s playful personality.

 

 

Thursday, December 17   5 to 7pm

Life Drawing   $20 with own materials ($30 if you need drawing materials)

This is an exciting opportunity to practice your drawing and sketching skills with a live model!  Instruction will be limited as I need to brush up on my drawing skills too, but I will provide some ideas and pointers for beginners.    

  

Friday, December 18  3 to 8pm

Special Event:  Marionette will be at Hanapape Art Night at LuLa's Kauai.  

Join us from 7 to 8pm for a special "wine and cheese" visit from Santa in Paradise.  

Get your photo with Santa!!

 

Saturday, December 19    5 to 7pm

Paint & Sip - Crazy Kauai Rooster in Watercolors  $50 

 Paint and Sips are Party nights!  Feel free to BYOB and I will provide light snacks, coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

 

Using loose, flowing brushstrokes, vibrant splashes of color, and playful watercolor techniques, you'll learn how to create a lively rooster full of personality and movement. 

 

Sunday, December 20   2 to 4pm

Brennecke's Beach in Watercolors $50

 

This is a gentle, beginner‑friendly watercolor class where you learn to paint luminous tropical seas, rolling waves, and breezy palm trees using simple, expressive techniques. Students explore color mixing, layering, and brushwork while creating a serene coastal scene inspired by Kaua‘i’s natural beauty.

 

 

Saturday, December 26  4 to 7pm

Paint & Sip - Na Pali with Whale Tail  in Acrylics  $75

 Paint and Sips are Party nights!  Feel free to BYOB and I will provide light snacks, coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

 

Learn how to create playful waves, misty emerald mountains, and a vibrant sunset sky. Then finish with a graceful whale tail rising from the ocean.  You’ll learn easy techniques for blending colors, shaping movement in the water, and creating atmospheric light in the sky. It’s beginner‑friendly, joyful, and perfect for anyone who loves island landscapes and expressive brushwork.

 

 

 Sunday, December 27  1 to 4pm

Humpback Whale in Acrylics  $75 

Paint a breaching whale bursting from vibrant ocean waves beneath a dreamy Kaua‘i sky. You’ll learn easy blending techniques for water, movement, and sunset colors while building confidence with expressive brushstrokes.  

 

 Wedesday, December 30  1 to 3pm

Hibiscus in Watercolors $50

In this watercolor class, we will paint a vibrant hibiscus bursting with tropical color and island warmth. Together we’ll explore soft blending, luminous washes, and expressive brushwork to capture the glowing petals, bold stamen, and rich background hues. 

 

 PRIVATE LESSONS $75/hour for one student or $50/per hour per person for 2 students.

Please contact me by text or email to set yours up!

 

If you would like to reserve your space in a class, please email, call, or text me (info below) because seating is limited.  Payment will be handled during the class.   

Painting Paradise is located in Lihue at the Puhi Industrial Center at 1824 Haleukana St. - front unit.

 

Much Aloha,

Marionette 

808 631 9173 

artbymarionette@yahoo.com

https://linktr.ee/artbymarionette 

 Student work:

 

 

 

 Quick demo videos:

 

 

 

Kauai Art Classes

Aloha and Welcome to Painting Paradise!  We offer classes in watercolors, acrylics, acrylic pouring, silk painting, encaustics, pastels, reverse acrylics, alcohol inks, Chinese brush painting and more!  Private Lessons and Art Parties are also available.  All supplies are included for every class.  Marionette aims to make each class fun, easy, and relaxing.  She has over 27 years of experience in watercolor painting and has been teaching at her Waimea art studio for over 12 years.  

MAP TO STUDIO

Please call Marionette at (808) 631-9173 to reserve your space and to confirm your reservation.  Please note my NEW email address:  artbymarionette@yahoo.com  Mahalo!

Monday, Dec 2: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)
Friday, Dec 6: 1-4pm Watercolors -  "Tropical Leaves" (at my studio)
Saturday, Dec 7: 1-3pm Encaustics - Painting w/ wax - Christmas Cards (at my studio)
Monday, Dec 9: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)
Friday, Dec 13: 1-3pm Tropical Sunsets in Pastels (at my studio)
Saturday, Dec 14: 12noon-3pm Special Christmas Card Making using the Iris Paper   Folding Technique $15 -  (at my studio)
Monday, Dec 16: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)
Thursday, Dec 19: 1-3pm Chinese Brush Painting (at my studio)
Friday, Dec 20: 1-4pm Silk Painting (at my studio)
Thursday, Dec 26: 1-4pm Acrylics on Canvas (at my studio)
Friday, Dec 27: 1-4pm Reverse Acrylics (at my studio)
Saturday, Dec 28: 1pm-4pm Watercolors - "Cottage with Sunset" (at my studio)
Monday, Dec 30: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)

Happy 2020!!!
Friday, Jan 3: 1-4pm Watercolors -  "Rainbow Sea Turtle" (at my studio)
Saturday, Jan 4: 1-3pm Acrylic Pouring Techniques (at my studio)
Monday, Jan 6: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)
Friday, Jan 10: 1-4pm Watercolors -  "Pineapple" (at my studio)
Saturday, Jan 11: 1-4pm Silk Painting (at my studio)
Thursday, Jan 16: 1-4pm Reverse Acrylics (at my studio)
Friday, Jan 17: 1-4pm Acrylics on Canvas (at my studio) 
Saturday, Jan 18: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)
Monday, Jan 20: 1-4pm Watercolors - Open Theme (at my studio)
Friday, Jan 24: 1-4pm Watercolors - "Cottage with Sunset" (at my studio)
Saturday, Jan 25: 1-3pm Watercolors -  "Rainbow Bamboo" (at my studio)
Friday, Jan 31: 1-3pm Watercolors -  "Rooster" (at my studio)

Saturday, Feb 1: 1-3pm Encaustics - Painting w/ wax (at my studio)

 Prices and Class Descriptions

ALL MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED FOR EACH CLASS! 

NEW  Watercolors - "Hula Girls" -  In this class we will be doing several quick and easy watercolor "sketches" of hula girls.  Some experience with watercolors is recommended.  $45.

Watercolors - "Cottage with Sunset" -  Paint a lovely, old fashioned plantation cottage surrounded by a tropical garden.  We will be exploring the techniques of masking, sponging, layering, blending, and building a sunset.  You will also learn how to paint colorful and whimsical palm trees. $45.

Encaustics Painting with Wax Christmas Card Making -   Encaustics is a fun, hot wax painting technique.  You will learn how to create beautiful Christmas Cards by painting with pigmented wax with a craft iron and stylus and recycled Christmas cards.  Several cards will be made.  $65.  Please confirm with me by phone if you are coming to this class because space is very limited.

 

Acrylic Pouring Techniques -  Learn the secrets to making fabulous acrylic pours with lots of "cells" and color.  You will learn what kind of paints and additives to use that really work. We will be exploring several different techniques and everyone will be able to make many exciting pours. $65.

Special Christmas Card Making Using the Iris Folding Technique-   Iris Paper Folding is a craft technique that involves folding strips of colored paper in such a way to form a design. The center of the design forms an iris - a shape reminiscent of the iris of a camera lens. Marionette will have several designs to choose from and neat "stuff" to embelish your Christmas Cards!  $15.

Encaustics - Painting with wax - Encaustics is a fun, hot wax painting technique.  You will learn how to create beautiful, tropical designs by painting with pigmented wax with a craft iron and stylus. Several techniques will be explored.   $65.  Please confirm with me by phone if you are coming to this class because space is very limited.

Watercolors - "Rainbow Sea Turtle" -  Learn how to capture the personality of this Kauai sea turtle in a rainbow of colors.  We will be exploring the techniques of  layering, dry brushing, splattering, blending and more.  Great for beginners! $45.

Chinese Brush Painting – Learn a modern approach to Sumi-e from Marionette as she demonstrates this beautiful, calligraphy-like art form.  You will learn about the traditional vs. modern materials to use as she guides you step-by-step through her creative and almost meditative process to paint bamboo, the wild orchid, and more.  $45.

Alcohol Inks on Yupo Paper -  Marionette will show you how to pour and maneuver the brightly colored alcohol inks onto smooth Yupo paper to create fun and exciting effects.  $65.

Watercolors (Open theme) - Choose to paint Hawaiian landscapes, tropical flowers, animals or a lovely plantation cottage. No drawing experience necessary. This class is great for beginners and all other painting levels.  All materials are included for the class.  Marionette aims to make this class FUN & EASY. $45.  

Silk Painting – Discover the secrets to silk painting while we create a lovely, tropical 30”x 30”silk piece to frame or wear. Anyone can do it! Beginners are welcome.  $65.

Reverse Acrylics on Plexiglass -   This is a very fun and challenging technique as you have to paint the details first and work your way to the background last.  Marionette will show you her secrets as she demonstrates the "reverse" way of how you would normally build a painting in acrylics.   $60.

Acrylics on Canvas - Marionette will introduce this amazing medium as she teaches her technique used to paint very colorful and life-like paintings on canvas. $55.

Watercolors - "Hibiscus" -  Paint along with me as we create a beautiful Hawaiian hibiscus.  You will learn several techniques to create the texture of the hibiscus petals along with shading techniques and colorful backgrounds  $45.

Watercolors - "Kauai Tree Tunnel" -  Create a one of a kind memory of Kauai as we paint together the famous Kauai Tree Tunnel!   We will be exploring the techniques of  layering, dry brushing, sponging, blending and more.  Great for beginners!  $45.

NEW  Watercolors - "Rooster" -  Paint your very own "Kauai Rooster" to take home.  Marionette will demonstrate some loose watercolor brush strokes to add movement and fun to your watercolors.  $45.

Watercolors - "Tropical Leaves" -  Hawaii is full of interesting and colorful tropical leaves. In this class you will learn many watercolor techniques to create vibrant and beautiful leaves and colorful backgrounds.  $45.

Watercolors - "Pineapple" -  Take home your own Hawaiian Pineapple as we paint together this fun subject.  We will be exploring the techniques of  layering, dry brushing, blending, popping color and creating interesting backgrounds. Great for watercolorists looking for something a little more challenging. Intermediate level $45.

Watercolors - "Rainbow Bamboo" -  In this class we will paint together a colorful bamboo painting.  Marionette will demonstrate several easy watercolor techniques including masking, shading, and blending. Great for beginners! $45.
 

Pupus and Picasso Painting Party! - It's all the rage on the mainland and now it's here on Kauai!  Join Marionette as she guides the whole group in a step-by-step original acrylic painting on canvas.  Any skill level is welcome!  She will also be serving some local style pupus, fruit, and cheese and will have water, juice and soda available to drink.  Feel free to BYOB or BYOW (bring your own wine).  Class fee is $65 per person with food or $55 per person without food. If you would like to book a private painting party with Marionette please contact her at 808-631-9173.  There is a minimum of three people per private painting party and you can choose from one of these subjects: Palm trees, Polihale Beach, Rooster, Bamboo or have Marionette come up with something fun just for you!  Finished painting size is 11"x14".

Plumeria Advanced Watercolor Techniques -  In this class we will paint together the delicate plumeria flowers of Kauai.  Marionette will demonstrate layering, shading, and background techniques necessary to build these colorful flowers.  *This class is only for those who have at least one year of experience in watercolor painting.  No beginners, please.  I am currently only offering this class as a private lesson.

Seascapes Advanced Watercolor Techniques -  In this class we will paint together waves, rocks, sea foam and more.  Marionette will demonstrate layering, shading, and other techniques.   *This class is only for those who have at least one year of experience in watercolor painting.  No beginners, please.  I am currently only offering this class as a private lesson.

Tropical Sunsets in Pastels – Join Marionette as she demonstrates her methods and materials to create a colorful, tropical pastel painting.  Focus will be on composition, drawing, layering, and color.   I am currently only offering this class as a private lesson.

Zen Doodle for Fun & Relaxation  - Learn how to turn doodles into a piece of art with this simple and easy process!   I am currently only offering this class as a private lesson.

Private Lessons - Any of Marionette's classes can be taught as a private lesson for $35 per hour per person (minimum of 2 hours).  Please call her at 808-631-9173 to check availability and set up an appointment.  Private lessons include all supplies.


About Marionette and Painting Paradise:

Nestled in historic Waimea Town on Kauai’s sunny west side, you will find Painting Paradise Art Gallery a working artist’s studio and gallery where Marionette teaches a variety of art classes. Specializing in watercolors, acrylics, silk painting, pastels, encaustics, and sumi-e, Marionette has discovered her true passion…teaching others that they can be artists too!

With an emphasis on fun, creativity, and relaxation, she makes every class easy for the beginner, intermediate, or advanced artist by providing all of the materials for each class. She will assess your abilities in art and customize the class to your special needs through demonstrations, easy drawing techniques, and will even reveal several artist “secrets”. Marionette will put you at ease as she works with you to explore, inspire, and jump start your creativity while you complete your own “masterpiece” as a special memory of your time on the Garden Island of Kauai.  Marionette has been painting professionally for over 20 years, and her works can be found in private and public collections around the world.  

 

 Reverse Acrylics on Plexiglass

 Acrylics on Canvas

 Silk Painting

 Watercolors