In this art retreat with world-renowned artist Shelly Perkins, you’ll create beautiful visual stories in your sketchbook inspired by Yosemite Valley’s towering walls, flowing river, and grassy meadows. Over the course of three days, you’ll spend time observing and thinking about the lines and shapes you see in nature and how to interpret those quickly and succinctly. This retreat is all about sharing the enjoyment of our natural world and working creatively outside. Participants will use watercolor and pen to create a sketchbook, starting with the basics and moving slowly through different techniques, from mastering line work to understanding form and composition. We will also look at the use of color to emulate light and shade and how we can convey that in quick studies working outside. As you learn how to draw and paint outside, your instructor will support you in developing confidence and enjoyment no matter what your artistic skill level.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Program dates: July 11–July 13
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artist Shelly Perkins.
- Four nights of tent camping — shared amongst participants in Yosemite Valley — or upgrade to a tent cabin at Curry Village for an additional fee.
- There is no discount if you choose not to stay at the group campsite.
- Camping details:
- Two campsites at Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley.
- Participants arrive on July 10 after 12 pm and must depart on July 14 by 11 am.
- The two campsites are shared among all retreat participants. A picnic table, bear locker, and firepit are provided at each site. Please be prepared to tent camp.
- Camping is for retreat participants only. We are unable to accommodate friends and family of participants in our group campsite; lodging arrangements for friends and family are the responsibility of participants.
- Due to the shared nature of our group sites, we are unable to accommodate RVs or campers. If you desire a private campsite, have an RV/camper, or want to sleep in your car, you must arrange for your own reservation.
- Lodging details: Upgrade to Curry Village for an additional fee. Lodging dates match camping dates. Lodging blocks expire 30 days prior to the program. Information on upgrading accommodations will be included in your confirmation email upon registering.
- Experience level: All painting levels welcome; must be physically fit to walk to painting locations with art supplies and essentials. Please be prepared to walk 1–3 miles/day, as not all locations will be accessible by car.
What’s not included:
- Art supplies, camping gear, snacks, or meals.
- Transportation.
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