Frequently Asked Questions

Are the artists’ retreats and workshops available to all levels? 

Yes! The events are suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to enthusiasts looking to practice and improve their techniques, or to commune with other artists in an amazing setting. Watercolor plein air basics, as well as architectural sketching outdoors, will be taught and practiced all three days. Instructors will give demos and helpful feedback and critiques. If the event is suited for more experienced artists, it will be noted in the title of the event, as an Intermediate or Advanced workshop.

When are the retreats available?

Catalina Island, CA, USA - April 21-23, 2023

Eastern Sierras, CA, USA - October 13-15, 2023

Workshops: we schedule 1-4 live same-day workshops each month. Please check our Same-Day workshops page for a listing of events.

 How many people are to be expected on the art retreat?

In order to have a friendly, intimate experience, and plenty of personalized instruction, we limit each retreat group to 9 participants, plus leader(s). Most of our workshops are limited to between 6-12 artists. Capacity is noted on each workshop listed.

 Where can I find an agenda or get an idea of what the activities will be like on each retreat?

You can see a sample agenda by emailing us, or check out our past blog posts for photos and a recap of each of our past retreats. Agendas are subject to change, (things happen!) but we generally have the activities and times pretty close to actual once we open up registration for the event.

 Are there any arrival/departure hours for the retreats?

Yes; for each retreat we will release a specific schedule, and guests will be expected to arrive either for dinner or breakfast (depending on the retreat schedule). Please make your travel arrangements accordingly once you know the dates. Some travelers like to book more R&R ahead or after the retreat, and that’s ok with us.

 I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book a retreat?

Yes. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements. Our local food expert can accommodate different diets, allergies and so on.

 How do I get to the retreat venue?

The retreat venues are convenient to public transportation or major roads. Transportation to and from retreat venues is not included in the price of the retreats.  There are no Airport transfers, so getting to and from the retreat is your responsibility.

You can get to Catalina Island either by ferry, private plane or boat, or by helicopter. Ferries leave Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point, CA on regular schedules. COVID may impact scheduling, so please make inquiries and book in advance. Once on the island, you will not need a car.

Independence, the base camp for our Eastern Sierras retreat, is located about 3 hours north of LAX - Los Angeles Airport. A car is necessary for getting to and from the retreat and the sketching locations. If you don’t drive or would like to carpool with another retreat participant, please contact the retreat leader, Anne Kupillas, to discuss.

 What should I pack? 

Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a cardigan for chillier evenings, comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, a mask and any personal medication you might need – as well as your art supplies.

 What art supplies do I need for the retreat and workshops?

You will need a travel watercolor kit, at least one paint brush and permanent ink pen, pencil, eraser, and paper or sketchbook. For some events, you will need a portable stool. Other easily available supplies are recommended for plein air painting.  A detailed list of recommended art materials will be provided upon booking. Not required: Easel, table, umbrella etc.

 Do I need a visa?

Guests traveling to the United States for tourist purposes may need a visa. The same is true for any of our international retreats. Please contact us for further guidance.

 Are there any age restrictions?

Workshops and retreats are for ages 12 and up. Minors must be accompanied by a parent who is also registered for the activity. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.

Can I bring a spouse? 

Yes, spouses can attend and there are plenty of non-art related activities on each retreat for your partner to enjoy. The cost may differ, based on whether lodging is included in the retreat or separate. Please send Anne an email to inquire about a specific event.

Are the art retreats & workshops available to guests with limited mobility?

Unfortunately, some of the sketching venues are not well-suited to host people with limited mobility. Please inquire about individual events by sending us an email.

What language is used during the art retreat and other activities?

Our events are held in English.

 Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes. For retreats, we require a 50% deposit to reserve your spot. The balance is due about one month before the start of the retreat. If we do not have a minimum of 6 participants by our cutoff date, then the retreat may be cancelled and we will refund your deposit in full. Once your payment is made in full with a confirmed event, your payment is non-refundable. Workshops require full payment at the time of registration.

Will I receive a full refund if the event is canceled by the artist, or because of COVID-19 restrictions,  or will I receive a rain check?

If the retreat or workshop is canceled due to COVID-19, or other force majeure events, we will reschedule the event for a later date. Should that date not work for you, we will offer a full refund or credit towards a future event, whichever you prefer.  * Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.