In this masterclass, Michael Solovyev shares his approach to painting cities with confidence and restraint. You will learn how to capture the essence of urban scenes without visual overload — selecting only what truly matters and letting the rest breathe.
Through live demonstrations and guided hands-on practice, Michael shows how to suggest perspective with simple, effective tools, keep your paintings light and fresh, and create convincing space with minimal means. Along the way, he shares personal insights and practical decisions from his own process — the quiet choices that give cityscapes clarity, rhythm, and life.
Schedule
Day 1
Thursday 2 July11:00 – 17:00
Day 2
Friday 3 July11:00 – 17:00
Recommended materials
Paper:
If you have a preferred brand of watercolor paper, it can be used.
Hot Pressed paper is not recommended.
Recommended paper is 100% cotton, 300 gsm (140 lb), Rough (Grain Torchon) — such as Baohong Master’s Choice, Saunders, or Arches.
Preferred sizes range from approx. 28 × 38 cm to 38 × 56 cm, depending on personal preference.
Saunders Waterford Rough 300 gsm is considered an optimal choice.
Brushes:
• Round brush (or mop) made of squirrel, goat, or an equivalent material (approximately size #12)
• Round sharp brush (or rigger/liner), approximately size #4
• Flat, firm watercolor brush, approximately 1.5 inches (3.5 cm) wide or larger
If you already have a preferred brush set, it can be used.
Asian calligraphy brushes (goat, rat, etc.) are also suitable.
For those who prefer to work with the same brushes used in the workshop demonstrations, Signature Sets (including the Escoda Signature Set) may be used.
Paint:
Professional watercolor paints in tubes are recommended.
Daniel Smith watercolors are a preferred option, but any professional-quality brand is acceptable if unavailable.
Small travel sets are not recommended.
A basic color palette is required.
The following colors are strongly recommended, as they are used frequently:
• Quinacridone Sienna
• Quinacridone Deep Gold
• Alizarin Crimson
• Perylene Violet
• Indigo
• Cobalt Blue
• Phthalo Green BS
• Phthalo Blue GS
Additionally required:
• Masking tape
• A board for stretching paper
• Pencil and eraser
• Simple hairdryer
• Paper towels
Using materials provided through the workshop’s recommended sources helps ensure consistent quality during the sessions.
