Designing
Your Voice
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Give yourself four days to find out what else is possible in your work.
Make a lot. Take risks. Trust your instincts. Go further than you would on your own.
Thursday - Sunday, October 8 – 11, 2026
Nino Studio, Seattle, WAÂ
Designing Your Voice
A 4-day immersive workshop in my Seattle studio for artists who want to loosen up, take more risks, and trust their own decisions.
We’ll start small, go big, then go even bigger—using play and strong design principles to explore composition, color, shape, marks, layering, and more.
The goal isn’t just to make more paintings. It’s to leave making art differently—with more confidence, more possibilities, and knowing how to keep moving when you get stuck.
Expect lots of making, demos, one-on-one guidance, problem solving, and plenty of beautiful messes along the way.
- 4 full days of instruction
- Lunch daily
- Small supportive group setting
- Personalized feedback and guidance
- Art supplies and materials provided
Q&AÂ
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Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is for artists at different stages who want to work more freely and consistently. You don’t need to be a professional artist—just open to abstraction, experimentation, and process-based work.
Do I need prior experience with abstract painting?
No. The workshop is guided and adaptable. If you’re open to trying new approaches and letting go of perfection, you’ll be supported.
What materials do I need to bring?
Nothing. All materials are provided, including surfaces, paints, tools, lunch, and snacks.
You’re welcome to bring a sketchbook if you enjoy having one.
What does a typical day look like?
Each day includes guided studio sessions, open working time, and group conversations.
The structure is gentle and flexible, designed to support flow rather than pressure.
Will I get feedback on my work?
Yes. Feedback is offered through group conversations and optional one-on-one check-ins. The focus is on helping you see what’s working, not fixing or judging your work.
Is this about finishing polished pieces?
You may leave with finished paintings, but that’s not really the point. I want you to leave making art differently—taking more risks, trusting your decisions, and knowing how to keep moving when you get stuck.
What if I feel stuck or overwhelmed during the workshop?
That’s completely normal, especially when trying something new. The workshop is designed to support you through both high and low moments.
How many participants will there be?
8-10 total. The group is intentionally small to allow for connection, focus, and individual attention.
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I'm Nino.
I’m an abstract artist and designer with over 27 years of experience, dedicated to exploring authenticity through the balance of creativity and design. My work thrives on curiosity, experimentation, and a deep sense of freedom—pushing boundaries while staying true to artistic intuition.
I love helping others discover their unique artistic voices, whether through my original artwork, prints, or immersive workshops. My goal is to make the journey of self-expression both inspiring and joyful, encouraging artists to create fearlessly and embrace their own creative flow.
This workshop is an extension of my own process—blending intuitive mark-making with thoughtful composition, allowing freedom while embracing structure. It’s an experience designed to help you break through creative limitations and create work that feels alive, exciting, and uniquely yours.
What Artists Are Saying
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"The best art workshop I have taken! Nino is an amazing artist who teaches with such kindness, humor and knowledge. I left with so many ideas and new techniques but also with more intention into why I want to paint. Over the four days of the workshop we had the time and materials to practice and grow. Such an inspiring week and the bolt of excitement I needed for my art practice!"
- Rachel Austin
This week was the very best “Yes” I have ever said! Nino’s “way” of teaching is so giving and honest! I walked in full of self doubt , but soon realized - the play really is the key! Through this playful journey, there were trials and “yes’s”and “what if’s “and “why not’s” along with so much laughter! Because of Ninos gentle ( but strong) guidance, I walked away with a new awakening in my creative soul and the knowledge that I am enough! Thank you Nino for sharing so much of you and allowing me to rediscover who I am both as an artist and as a human being!
-Â Laura Lanoil
"A workshop like this feels like I’ve put my finger in a light socket. The energy comes homes with me. Plus, paint, paint, paint-don’t think!"
- Kate Russum
"I feel more confident about my work. I love working with Nino - not only is he an amazing painter and generously shared his own techniques but he was always moving thru the studio talking with each student about their work. That is a treasure for everyone in the workshop!"
- Lyn Feakes
"I needed the permission to play, create messes and be ok not making masterpieces. It was so fun to explore Nino’s way of painting in such a supportive, non-judgmental environment."
-Â Lea Jacobson
This was a transformative and immersive week. There was a supportive environment, space to explore my own interests/voice and safe group to struggle and push through. Nino was really open to given room for me to focus on what I had to express.
- Erik T Beadle
Refund PoliciesÂ
Enrollment and Payment:
Your spot in a workshop is confirmed when you register and pay in full.
Minimum Number of Students:
We need at least 8 students in each workshop for it to happen. If we don't reach this number 10 days before the workshop starts, we might have to cancel it. We'll send you an email if this happens, and you'll get a full refund. It's a good idea not to book non-refundable travel or lodging until 10 days before the workshop.
Cancellation by Nino Studio:
If we have to cancel a workshop for any reason, you'll get a 100% refund.
Student Cancellations:
If you need to cancel, send us an email at hello@nino.studio
Cancellations Within 10 Days:
If you cancel within 10 days of the workshop, you won't get a refund unless someone else takes your spot from a waitlist. If that happens, you'll get a full refund, minus $100.
No Refunds After Workshop Starts:
We can't give refunds, credits, or make-up classes once the workshop has started.
Missed Days:
If you miss a day, we can't give refunds, credits, or make-up classes.
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We appreciate your understanding and following these guidelines, which help us run our workshops smoothly. If you have questions or need more information, please let me know.
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