Pennsylvania
Watercolor Workshop in the Poconos
Program No. 16912RJ
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Watercolor Workshop in the Poconos
Watercolor Workshop in the Poconos
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Participant Reviews
Based on 34 Reviews
SHOWING
Watercolor is a difficult medium to work with, but this program allows even a novice artist to produce attractive paintings. Instruction is easy to follow, and techniques are easy to learn.
— Review left November 15, 2025
The idea of facing a blank piece of paper was terrifying. With minimal watercolor lessons 40 years ago, I left the program with confidence to try something on my own.
— Review left November 4, 2025
Toni Chaplin is a wonderful instructor. My friend and I were both beginners in watercolor - my friend had never painted a painting before - and Toni taught and guided us to create paintings we are both proud of. She is thoughtful in her approach, selecting different subjects each day that enable participants to learn different techniques. If you are reluctant to try this because you have never painted before, I strongly encourage you to sign up. There were many experienced painters in the class, and they too gave Toni rave reviews as an instructor, many returning year after year. Her style of teaching is demo while sharing information, taking a break, having students try what she suggested, walking around and giving individual suggestions, and them moving to the next stage of a painting. She does it all in a friendly and supportive way. I could not be happier with her instruction.
— Review left October 20, 2025
This program is amazing. The fact that this is offered 8 times per year, and there is a waiting list, speaks for itself!
— Review left October 18, 2025
I took this class as a novice. Our group included people of all skill levels and experiences. Like all the creative projects I have tackled over the years, watercolor painting requires perseverance as you learn. However, the difference for me is that I felt joy the entire time I was painting. I’m so excited to make this my new hobby. Toni was the perfect teacher for me. She provided detailed lectures on the materials and techniques we needed for each project we tackled. And she was available to provide feedback to us as we progressed with our paintings. Her teaching style is so seamless, coming from years of experience. I particularly liked how she evaluated each of our paintings at the end of each project. I also enjoyed learning from the experienced painters. I appreciated how well the class was managed. We were so well taken care of. This is a class you can return to over and over.
— Review left May 17, 2025
I was disappointed in this workshop and trip. The class had 21 students and no way to view the instructor's painting techniques on a larger screen. This could be easily accomplished with a laptop, camera and a flatscreen TV. Instead all students crowded around the instructor's table and tried to see what she was doing and then return to our tables and try to recreate the steps she had gone through. This practice also wasted a lot of time because we had to wait for every student to gather around and some students were still working on their paintings.
The other issue I had was that the instructor spent almost 2 hours going over the supply list we had been given and were expected to acquire. I just didn't think basic tools like brushes, paper and pencils and erasers needed that much discussion and if there was something missing from our equipment it was too late to do anything about it.
Finally, there wasn't a lot of description about this class on the RS website, like the instructor's background or her focus in art. It turned out to be a class in realistic painting. This was interesting but I probably wouldn't have chosen to attend this class because I am more of an abstract artist.
I really would have liked to have optional tours of the surrounding area and this was not offered. Without a car I was unable to go to any of the nearby hiking areas or a waterfall that was supposed to nearby.
— Review left May 10, 2025
Toni Chaplin taught techniques by demonstration and critique. 22 in the class gathered around to watch as she would start a painting, we’d go do that step, come back for the next step demo, go do that, etc. Four paintings/four days. We turned them in and she gave critiques on each in turn; during sessions, you could go up for individual questions and help (though she should not be painting on student work). Fascinating to see one model result in 22 versions. I learned a lot, but this teaching method is not for everyone. I would have preferred introductory overview, noting techniques she’d be demonstrating for that painting and intended results. She sometimes went off on tangents, telling personal anecdotes during demonstrations rather than addressing the art of painting. She made no suggestions for using the recommended books and did not give much instruction in composition or color, the topics of those books. She is a warm and positive person, who gives good feedback, and her own painting seems effortless.
I admire the Shawnee Inn owners for trying to bring this 100-year old inn back to former glory, but rooms were uncomfortable, too cold (mine never above 64), with others complaining of too hot, too noisy. No easy chair. Staff is wonderful, food was good but not “resort” quality, & the pool was under renovation, so no swim. Setting & grounds are gorgeous and it was fun to take golf carts over on a tour of the course, seeing the huge eagles nest. Brewery was good, Shawnee Playhouse performance & wildlife night fun. At final dinner, we sat at one long table, with a huge barrier of a centerpiece running the length of it, so instead of being able to chat with the variety of people we’d met, I got to speak only with the person on my right. Smaller tables would have allowed some mixing. The Cluster app to share photos and the final show of our work did allow us to celebrate each other. Overall good, not great workshop.
— Review left April 25, 2025
Fantastic program! Highly recommend!
— Review left November 16, 2024
If you’ve never tried painting with watercolors and would like to do so, this program is a must. The instructor introduces new concepts at a a pace that ‘newbies’ can assimilate and you will learn SO MUCH!
— Review left November 2, 2024
Toni Chaplin is a wonderful instructor who worked well with our group who had very diverse experiences with watercolor from beginner to those with more advanced skills. As a solo traveler I found the group to be very welcoming and there was no time when I felt uncomfortable.
— Review left October 7, 2024
Toni was a wonderful instructor...knowledgable, warm, encouraging and such a great sense of humor. Along with painting techniques, she also taught about supplies, mixing colors, tips for correcting errors, and matting/framing. She is well worth the program fee. Liz was her assistant and worked very hard to accommodate any personal needs or requests and to make sure we were well informed about meals, other activities and special events. She kept the prograam organized and on schedule. Both Toni and Liz were so welcoming, approachable, and available to all participants. Thank you both for making this a wonderful experience.
— Review left September 28, 2024
The instructor was teaching beginners and experienced painters and all enjoyed her step-by-step method. She made sure everyone understood how the process works and sometimes why things didn't work. It was a very enjoyable course.
— Review left April 22, 2024
This was my first trip with Road Scholar and it was a test to see if I would like to continue taking trips with them. It surpassed my expectations and I loved the watercolor class at the Poconos! The teacher was the BEST! Traveling solo, I was nervous about not knowing anyone. However the great people from all over the country made me feel comfortable right away! I will definitely sign up for more Road Scholar trips!
— Review left April 17, 2024
I particularly liked the class instructor!
— Review left April 13, 2024
Excellent opportunity for both beginners and intermediate artists. Step-by-step instructions included many tips, tricks and fixes along the way.
— Review left November 26, 2023
Toni Chaplin has a gift to bring out the best in each student.
— Review left November 11, 2023
The program went beyond my expectations! My Instructor Toni is Gifted, Nuturing, Kind..even in coaching!! The place Shawnee Inn! So very nice and welcoming! Food was great! The history of the place for the workshop Amazing as well as the paticipants and group leader Liz. I signed up for next year!!
— Review left October 21, 2023
If you love to paint with watercolors, if you want to try watercolors, if you have lots of experience, a little experience or no experience at all, but might like to try something new, this a a wonderful class to Join! Toni Chaplin is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. You will love the time spent. I also want to recommend the lovely Swanee Inn. Food is good, rooms are comfortable. I loved the vintage quality of this inn. The beauty of the surroundings are great. What a wonderful experience!
— Review left September 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this trip. As a beginner, I was worried that I would not be able to keep up with the other students. That didn’t happen. Toni Chaplin was a great instructor. She taught the beginners the basic while helping to improve the skills of the more advanced students. I learned a lot about subject matter and color mixture. My fellow travelers added to the experience, sharing their ideas, learning from their successes and mistakes. The Shawnee Inn and Golf resort was beautiful. The rooms were comfortable, the food delicious and the staff helpful. I personally recommend the facial and massage. I can see why so many students are repeat participants.I have already signed up for next year.
— Review left June 25, 2022
I highly recommend taking Toni Chaplin’s watercolor classes, an excellent instructor for new or experienced painters.
— Review left June 20, 2022
Toni Chaplin is a gifted watercolor painting instructor. Even if you have never painting anything in your life, you will be amazed at how much you will learn and the art you will produce.
— Review left June 11, 2022
One of the best instructors I've ever worked with, and I learned so much! We covered so many topics during the week that I feel prepared to continue learning at home. I'm already enrolled in a future session. Totally recommend for painters at all skill levels.
— Review left April 19, 2022
This course is great for beginners or advanced painters. Toni gives individual instruction to meet your needs. It's a great course!
— Review left April 18, 2022
Great experience. Very enjoyable as a beginner. Toni is a great teacher!
— Review left November 21, 2021
Toni Chaplin is an amazing artist and a fantastic teacher. She presented multiple subjects and techniques with lots of demonstrations and targeted coaching over the course of the week. Experienced and novice painters, alike, learned new watercolor skills!
— Review left October 30, 2021
I loved this course. Toni Chaplin is a great instructor, knowledgeable, patient, and helpful. She provided a great number of practical tips and techniques and as a result I feel that my painting skills have improved greatly. The setting was beautiful and meeting people from all over the country added much to the experience. I hope to repeat this program in future.
— Review left September 20, 2021
Toni Chaplin is a wonderful teacher. She demonstrated her teaching over and over again helping each student individually as needed. I loved this class and cannot wait until I can take another one of her classes, because she has so much to give us.
— Review left September 18, 2021
The Watercolor Workshop in the Poconos with Toni Chaplin was just amazing. The location is beautiful and the accommodations were lovely. The best part however was the instructor. Toni Chaplin is an accomplished and talented artist with years and years of experience. But her true strength is that she is an amazing teacher. She teachers, allows her participants to apply and practice the skill, then she helps each artist individually all while being amazingly supportive. My confidence level went though the roof working with her. Her approach makes this workshop a perfect choice whether you have painted a very short amount of time, or whether you are an accomplished artist of many years experience. There is something for everyone. Her techniques, tips, and tricks have wide application for each person to use in their own art when they return home. And she is just delightful! Very humble and supportive. Also each participant got as much one on one time as they needed. The is a wonderful program and I highly recommend it to any watercolorist. You will come away relaxed, rejuvenated, and with a feeling that this was a week well spent. It is also a great value for the money.
— Review left June 8, 2019
I will recommend Road Scholar to my family and friends. I am extremely satisfied with the Level of professionalism and accommodations. It is an experience I will not forget. The best workshop experience I've had. Thank You
— Review left June 8, 2019
This is the best way to travel anywhere in the world. It's like getting a second family both from the group you go on and the staff at your destination.
— Review left June 7, 2019
If you are interested in learning watercolor painting or if you desire to improve your existing skills, this program is for you. You will be amazed at what you will accomplish in this short week.
— Review left June 2, 2019
I had no watercolor experience and very little art experience of any kind but was able to keep up with the class and produce paintings I'm proud of, all thanks to the incredible instructor, Toni Chaplin.
— Review left May 18, 2019
If you are thinking about taking a watercolor class with Toni Chaplin, sign up today. She is excellent and you will love the class.
— Review left May 17, 2019
If you love to paint, Paint in the Poconos with Toni Caplin!
— Review left May 4, 2019