Presenting Charles Sluga

More about Charles and your week at the mill

In this course, the focus will be on filling sketchbooks as a way to capture the moments and memories of your time in Tuscany. Working in a sketchbook encourages freedom to take risks, explore new ideas, and experiment with different subjects, compositions, and techniques. This spirit of creativity and exploration will be supported by thoughtful planning, solid knowledge, and strong technical skills. The goal is to create a sketchbook filled with vibrant sketches and paintings that reflect a fresh, personal perspective of Tuscany. This approach makes painting more enjoyable and less pressured—freeing you from the need to produce a “perfect” piece and opening the door to exciting artistic growth. By the end of the course, you’ll rediscover your passion for painting and feel creatively recharged.

“I believe that making meaningful art isn’t just about mastering technique or making a “pretty” picture — it’s just as important to develop your own creative voice and personal vision.

“Painting becomes far more meaningful when it reflects your personal story and way of seeing the world.

“After 35 years of teaching, I have seen many workshop participants fall into the habit of copying the tutor’s work or creating what they think they’re “supposed” to paint.  This often leads to predictable, clichéd results—and a sense of frustration rather than fulfilment.

“What I enjoy most about teaching (and this is my goal) is helping students break free from those limitations. My teaching is designed not only to strengthen students’ technical skills, but also to open their eyes to new perspectives, encourage creative risk-taking, and build the confidence to express themselves authentically through their art. In essence it is really about teaching them to see, think and paint with originality and integrity.

“My goal is to equip students with more than just technique—a mindset, a toolbox of skills, and a renewed enthusiasm that continues to inspire long after the workshop ends.”

Charles Sluga is an internationally recognized professional watercolourist, celebrated for his distinctive vision and versatility within the medium. Known for pushing the boundaries of traditional watercolour, his work reflects both technical mastery and a deeply personal artistic voice.
An enthusiastic and passionate teacher, Charles has led workshops across Australia and internationally—including ten at the renowned Watermill in Tuscany—and has conducted 12 painting tours throughout Europe. With a background in education(yes, he’s a trained Mathematics teacher—but don’t worry, no algebra involved!— Charles brings more than 35 years of experience to his art instruction, making him a popular and sought-after tutor.

Charles is also the co-author of Contemporary Watercolors, published by American publisher Walter Foster, and the author of Streets of London, a collection of works inspired by his extensive research into the game of Monopoly. Alongside his wife Nancy, Charles runs the successful Sluga Gallery, which showcases his paintings and Nancy’s photography, further sharing their creative vision with the public.

To learn more about Charles and view his work, visit www.slugagallery.com.