Ironton artist Pati Payne has painted all her life.

The daughter of two artists, Payne grew up with a love for art. Now she wants to help others realize their potential in the craft.

Starting in October, Payne will teach watercolor painting classes at the Renaissance Art Gallery in Huntington, W.Va.

“It’s something I’ve been thinking about for some time,” Payne said. “I’ve painted a long time and I think a lot of people could really enjoy watercolor painting and they need help to know how to get started.”

Payne’s classes will start Saturday, Oct. 13 and be held every other Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the art gallery. The price is $25 per class or four classes for $80. Supplies will be furnished.

Payne said the class is for teen and adult beginners. Students can expect to learn the supplies painters needs and basic fundamentals of how to create a piece.

An advanced class will also be offered from 1 to 3 p.m. on Fridays at the gallery starting Oct. 19. A supply list will be given. The price is $25 per class or four for $80.

Payne founded the Ironton Artists Association in 1974 and has been a member ever since. She is also a member of Tri-State Arts Association and Kentucky Creative Arts Club. In 2001 she was accepted as a co-op member of The Renaissance Art Gallery.

Her watercolors, oils and mixed media paintings of flowers and landscapes can be seen at the gallery and in homes and businesses throughout the Tri-State.

Payne also taught community art classes at Ohio University Southern about 20 years ago, and she is ready to being teaching again.

“It’s all I can think about,” Payne said.

To express interest in the class, Payne can be contacted at (740) 533-1516 or by email at pati.payne@yahoo.com