I’m a student of Buffy Kaufman in Fallbrook. Have you ever been in an art class where the instructor tells you what he/she will be demonstrating and then paints in silence? I always have so many questions buzzing in my head during both the tell and the demo. By the time I get to paint I find myself stuck. Ah ha. Buffy narrates while she demonstrates. She even allows me to ask burning questions while she’s painting without stopping.While the class paints, she cruises and checks body language for “stuckiness”, always able to assist with encouraging words.“Remember, we’re always working on your development of your style, not a copy of mine.” And “Art is better shared.”PS.-Buffy’s class is the most important and most fun ever.

If you get the chance to study watercolor with Buffy Kaufman, I urge you not to miss it!  Buffy is one of those wonderful artists who can teach as well as she paints. During her demonstrations, she anticipates your questions and shares her unique techniques, while calmly making magic happen right before your eyes. The natural world is her never-ending inspiration, and after studying with Buffy, you’ll view the world around you with new eyes.

I have had the pleasure of studying under Buffy Kaufman for the last few years. I have been fortunate to attend her in-person classes and real-time online workshops as well as learning from her YouTube videos. Buffy is not only a talented artist she is also an excellent and encouraging teacher. I always come away with some new knowledge or a new technique. She pushes me to loosen up and get out of my comfort (stuck) zone!

Buffy is an enthusiastic and talented instructor. I am a student in her class and look forward to each lesson that she teaches. Buffy's demonstrations are clear and easy to follow. Both beginning and advanced students learn new techniques in her class. Buffy's positive upbeat approach encourages each student to grow.

Buffy is a gifted and knowledgeable instructor whose love of color shines through in all she does. I have learned more about color and the art of watercolor than I thought possible. I’ve been fortunate to have attended multiple live classes with her, as a result my skill level has vastly improved.

It's been so exciting to continue my watercolor education with Buffy. She has provided invaluable information into color mixing, painting tools, and her demonstrations always include new techniques that have enabled me to grow as a painter. Plus, we have fun! It's very obvious during her classes that she gives her heart to her preparation to teach toward the best result for all her students, be they experienced or beginners.

I have had the absolute pleasure to attend watercolor classes with Buffy Kaufman over the course of the last 7 months. I have taken numerous watercolor workshops, seminars, and classes over the years. Buffy is, hands down, the most encouraging, inspirational teacher I have ever learned from. Not only is she encouraging to everyone who takes her class, no matter their level or skills, she is also one of the best watercolorist I have ever known. Her classes guarantee success in the way she teaches (she demonstrates, then her students practice). While her students are practicing she celebrates their accomplishments. Her classes are non-competitive, nurturing, and inspiring. She truly brings out the best in her students

Buffy Kaufman is a phenomenal teacher and watercolor artist.  I have taken classes with Buffy for many many years and each class delivers new and exciting demonstrations, techniques and information.  Buffy explains step by step and in detail her process and answers questions with clarity and knowledge.  I have learned a boatload from Buffy and will follow her to the end of this earth.  Do not hesitate to join a class with Buffy!!

I watch a lot of different tutorials online, from various artists. But I actually pay for a monthly membership with Buffy. Why? When I watch Buffy I am always amazed and inspired! It’s like the difference between watching a movie that is ok, and then watching a movie that is an Oscar winner. Buffy’s lessons reach that deeper part of my creative process. Thank you Buffy for making me brave and always reaching for more.

Buffy Kaufman’s work is a kaleidoscope of color, curiosity, and creative courage. Her abstract-yet-recognizable style dances across the page, inviting viewers into a world where packing poufs, sticks, stencils, and the occasional mystery object become tools of transformation. Every mark she makes feels intentional yet delightfully unexpected. It is like watching a story unfold in a language I didn’t know I understood.

I’ve had the joy of taking several of Buffy’s classes on the Terracotta.art platform, including one where I witnessed an award-winning piece come to life in real time. Her teaching style is gentle, generous, and joyfully upbeat. She explains her process with clarity and warmth, making even the most unconventional techniques feel approachable. 

Following along during World Watercolor Month was a highlight; I found myself punning along with her daily prompts, completely Buffy-ed by the brilliance.

Buffy doesn’t just teach art. She invites you to see differently, to experiment boldly, and to trust the magic in the mess. Her work stands out. Her teaching stands beside you. And her creative energy is utterly contagious.