Brush of Genius - Watercolor Painting

Name: Brush of Genius - Watercolor Painting
Brand: Brush of Geniushttps://www.brushofgenius.com/shop/

by Brush of Geniushttps://www.brushofgenius.com/shop/

ArtGrades 3–12

About This Curriculum

DVD-based watercolor painting program using step-by-step instruction that takes students from a blank sheet of paper to a beautiful masterpiece.

What makes it unique: Unique 'art by immersion' approach that can turn anyone into a true artist, requiring no prior painting skill

Brush of Genius: DVD-Based Step-by-Step Watercolor Instruction

Brush of Genius is a DVD-based watercolor painting curriculum that uses step-by-step video instruction to teach painting techniques. The program takes students from beginner level through progressively more complex landscape painting projects, with the instructor demonstrating each technique as students follow along.

Best for

Homeschool families and teachers seeking structured watercolor instruction for grades 3-12, particularly those without formal art training who want a self-contained painting curriculum

Evaluation Criteria

2 strengths · 2 concerns · 1 neutral · 1 insufficient evidence

Direct InstructionStrength

The curriculum exemplifies direct instruction with clear teacher modeling and guided practice through video format.

The video 'tells when it is time to pause it and complete the next steps' and includes segments where the instructor 'gives more detailed demonstrations of the process'

Technique InstructionStrength

The curriculum provides highly structured, explicit instruction in watercolor techniques through step-by-step video demonstrations.

The instructor 'walks students through the entire project step by step' with detailed demonstrations of the painting process, requiring no prior painting skill

Structured Vs OpenConcern

The curriculum is heavily structured with step-by-step instruction but lacks opportunities for creative exploration or personal expression.

Students follow along to create specific predetermined scenes like 'Country Life' and other landscape projects with detailed guidance throughout

Art History KnowledgeConcern

The curriculum appears to focus solely on technique instruction without incorporating art history or cultural knowledge.

The review describes only painting techniques and projects but mentions no art history, famous artists, or cultural contexts

Teacher TrainingNeutral

The curriculum requires minimal teacher preparation as instruction is delivered via DVD, though this may limit adaptation to different learning needs.

The DVD format means instruction is pre-recorded and standardized, with supply lists provided on the website for easy setup

Vocabulary BuildingInsufficient Evidence

The curriculum likely introduces some painting-specific vocabulary through technique instruction, though this is not explicitly detailed.

The review mentions teaching 'fundamental techniques' and 'additional techniques' but does not specifically describe vocabulary instruction

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com