IWE is managed by IWE Director

Lynn Rodriguez

The International Watermedia Exhibition (IWE) is one of two juried exhibitions held annually, the other being the Annual Members Exhibit (AME).  Whereas AME is open to only WAS-H members, IWE showcases the excellence of watermedia artists from as far away as Australia, Bulgaria, China, Germany, India and the Netherlands.  Selected by a renowned juror and judge, the paintings receive exposure in a month-long, open-to-the-public gallery exhibit as well as an online exhibit that lasts through the end of the year. Winning participants receive substantial cash awards.

48TH International Watermedia Exhibition

We are honored to welcome internationally acclaimed artist and designer Stephen Zhang as the 48th International Watermedia Exhibition juror. An award-winning watercolorist, Stephen’s creative exploration has spanned diverse projects and international collaborations. His works have been showcased in prestigious exhibitions, including the American Watercolor Society, Watercolor USA, the Chinese National Art Exhibition, Art Olympia in Japan, and even the U.S. Embassy in Equatorial Guinea. In addition to his artistic practice, Stephen is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas, where he shares his expertise with the next generation of artists. His global perspective and deep technical knowledge make him an ideal juror, and we are thrilled to have him for IWE 2025.

Interested in learning about the 48th IWE in 2025?  Prospectus -- 48th IWEx.pdf.


You may now submit your entries for the 48th IWE!  

CaFÉ (callforentry.org)


Workshop Highlight: Expressive Watercolor Portrait Based on Solid Foundation

In addition to his role as juror, Stephen Zhang will lead an exciting four-day workshop (March 8-11, 2025) focused on capturing the lively essence of portrait subjects in watercolor. This workshop will guide students through creating dynamic portraits, combining structured technique with spontaneous brushwork. Artists will explore both detailed and sketchy approaches, practicing the balance between control and free-flowing expression.

Stephen’s teaching style emphasizes mastering the fundamentals while encouraging creative experimentation. This workshop is perfect for artists seeking to bring their portraits to life through vibrant, expressive brushstrokes, while still maintaining a strong foundation. Expect hands-on practice and thoughtful feedback that will help you unlock new artistic possibilities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to work with an internationally celebrated artist. Registration opens on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Mark your calendars, as seats are limited!

                                 47TH INTERNATIONAL WATERMEDIA EXHIBITION                         


"This is a high-quality show. It rivals the American Watercolor Society Show."

~ Vlad Yeliseyev, juror and judge


On display from March 3 through March 31, Visitors viewed 88 masterworks from four countries and 21 states. 

Scroll down to see the exhibition below. 

To watch a video and see samples of Vlad's demo and the March 3rd reception, click HERE.  

Vladislav Yeliseyev judges the show on Saturday, March 2:




A full house for Vlad's demo on Sunday, March 3:





2024 IWE Award Winners

1st Place

2nd Place

3rd Place


Mehrdad Sedghi

"Ode to Joy" with Joy

Watercolor on Paper

Anaheim, CA

$800



Nishita Jain

Early Winter Snow

Watercolor on Paper

Columbia, MD

$1,400



Dean Mitchell

Chavarria

Watercolor on Paper

Tampa, FL

$17,500


Odette Ruben

Memorial Award


Laurie Hammons

Flowers for Barbara

Acrylic and Pencil on Paper

Houston, TX

$550 (sold)


Margaret Scott Bock Award



John James

Lightning Rod

Watercolor on Paper

Virginia Beach, VA

$1,200


Jack Bowen Award



Adam Zhao

Mr. Brawn, Judge Emeritus

Watercolor on Paper

Houston, TX

$2,500


E.T. Kraycirik

Memorial Award


Kathleen Conover

Contemplating Flight

Watercolor on Paper

Marquette, MI

$2,800 (sold)


Merit Awards


Mohammad Bhatti

Shadows of Agony

Watermedia on Paper

Richmond, TX

$1,000 (sold)



Aida Birritteri

Tender

Watercolor/Gouache on Paper

High Bridge, NJ

$900



Kathleen Durdin

Sunset Stroll

Watercolor on Paper

Tampa, FL

$750 (sold)



Chris Krupinski

Feeling Left Out

Watercolor on Paper

Maineville, OH

$5,000



Irene Sheytman

Dream City-3

Watercolor on Paper

Houston, TX

$550



Philip Weigand

Mission San Jose

Watercolor on Paper 

Houston, TX

Not for Sale




David Smith

Plein Air, 9:30-11am, Windy, Rainy, Luther Burbank

Watercolor on Paper 

Seattle, WA

$6,000



Erik Sprohge

World Houston

Watercolor on Paper  

Houston, TX

$900



Z Feng

In the Wood

Watercolor on Paper

Radford, VA

$980


Keiko Yasuoka

Under the Sunlight

Watercolor on Paper 

Houston, TX

Not for Sale


<< All album photos 29/88 photos
Kim Granhaug
Primaries Have More Fun
Pattison, TX
$1,800

IWE Catalogs

1601 West Alabama Houston TX 77006
Gallery: 713-942-9966
Questions? Email 
admin@watercolorhouston.org

HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 3 pm

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