Our History

​The Spokane Watercolor Society is successful in its mission because of the support of its sponsors.
We acknowledge our sponsors at shows, meetings and events and encourage our members to support and thank them for what they do for us.
SWS Founded
Spokane Watercolor Society began as an exclusive group of 12 professional artists dedicated to rigorous improvement. Critique sessions were notoriously harsh, and bylaws required strict monthly painting quotas, with 25¢ fines for those who failed to deliver.
1952
1952 - 1995
Unique Traditions
The group bonded through "Keyhole Auctions," where members bid on art they could barely see, and an annual holiday exchange of miniature watercolors wrapped in newspaper. This was a tradition that continued until 1995.
SWS Founded
On June 23, 2021, the Spokane Watercolor Society officially became a federal 501c(3) nonprofit organization, solidifying its long-standing commitment to arts education and community enrichment.
2021
Today
A Modern Community
We have grown into a welcoming group of over 80 active members across the US. We now embrace all water-soluble media, including gouache, acrylic, and ink. We connect through both in-person workshops and digital sessions.