Mike Daikubara

Workshop in Concord, NC with Cabarrus Art Guild!

Concord has a special place in my heart—especially downtown. Years ago, I sketched a building here, and that drawing ended up as the cover of my book Color First, Ink Later—which also happens to be the name of this workshop! That same building, once a courthouse, is now home to the Cabarrus Arts Council, filled with amazing artwork that I got to check out after class.

This workshop was a blast! I had a great group of students, many of whom were skilled in plein air and precision drawing. My focus? Helping students loosen up, embrace mistakes, and find that sweet spot between control and spontaneity. 

The weather at first had a 70% chance of rain, then just clouds, and finally… sunshine! We couldn’t have asked for a better day.

After class, my wife and I wandered around downtown, soaking up the charm and wrapping up the day with a late lunch. Huge thanks to the Cabarrus Art Guild for having me.

I hope there will be more opportunities like this in the future!