Dean demonstrating pastel techniques at the Coutts Centre near Nanton, Alberta on 25 August 2019. Photo credit: Bev Muendel-Atherstone


The current and ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has temporarily interrupted planning and presentation of my in-person art workshops and classes. I do look forward to once again offering courses and workshops. In the meantime I wish everyone good health and creative inspiration as we navigate these difficult times together.

Dean has many years of experience leading classes and workshops in many Alberta communities including Edmonton (Grant MacEwan Community College), Red Deer (Red Deer College), Vermilion (Lakeland College), Spirit River, St. Paul, Camrose, Wainwright, and Medicine Hat. A graduate of the University of Alberta (BFA, 1978), Dean is known primarily as a landscape painter who works on location. In addition, Dean’s interest in history, cultural heritage and gardening has inspired him to draw and paint such diverse subjects as heritage buildings in the Old Strathcona and Garneau districts of Edmonton, prairie homesteads, churches, historic sites across the British Isles, rock gardens, orchids and wildflowers.

I was an absolute beginner when I signed up for Dean’s pastel workshop.  He compiled a very thorough, informative  supply list well ahead of the workshop which was so appreciated. Dean’s explanations were concise, and easily understood. He took the time to inform us about all the materials used, giving wonderful hints and encouragement along the way.  Dean first did a demonstration, and then provided ample time for us to work.  During this time,  Dean frequently visited each participant, giving helpful advice and ideas.  The day was informative and very encouraging. Dean is a positive, wonderful instructor.  I know even though I had never done pastels before, that I will for certain make them a part of my creative life.  I have registered for another of Dean’s workshops and am so looking forward to attending.  I would highly recommend Dean Reeves as an instructor.
– Dianne Kubik

Pastel demo during Foothills, Fields and Flowerbeds workshop at the Coutts Centre for Western Canadian Heritage, 25 August 2019. Photo credit: Bev Muendel-Atherstone
Watercolour Instructor Dean Tatam Reeves providing a group of Lakeland College Summer Art Program students with an outdoor painting demonstration. Vermilion, Alberta, 1994.
Watercolour Instructor Dean Tatam Reeves leads a group of Lakeland College Summer Art Program students with an outdoor demonstration in Vermilion, Alberta – 1994

The course was excellent. Dean has a great method of making the information easily understandable. The demos were great and each student was challenged at their own level and encouraged to go beyond – this approach was greatly appreciated and useful.

– student feedback re: 10-week watercolour course at Grant MacEwan Community College, Performing, Visual and Communication Arts Outreach, Edmonton, Alberta