Bring along a fresh sketchbook and join artist Rebecca Alarcon for a gouache painting in Yosemite Valley. From iconic views to the smallest wildflower, you’ll have the chance to slow down and connect deeply with all your surroundings. During this “artful adventure,” you’ll hike throughout the floor of Yosemite Valley, creating adventurous art that combines process and experimentation. In addition to learning the basics of plein air painting with gouache — including tips on composition, value, and color mixing — you’ll compose artistic sketchbook pages that translate your unique experience of the park into a vivid, personal account. With an emphasis on helping you honor and hone your own approach, this retreat welcomes experimentation and playfulness and is open to artists of all levels.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Program dates: October 12–October 14
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artist Rebecca Alarcon.
- Four nights of tent camping in Yosemite Valley — campsites shared by all participants — or upgrade to lodging for an additional fee.
- What’s not included: Participants must supply their own art supplies, camping gear, food, and transportation. Trip planning resources and packing lists are linked at the bottom of this page.
- Camping details:
- Two campsites at Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley.
- Participants can arrive after 12 pm on October 11 and must depart by 12 pm on October 15.
- The 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 can only accommodate tent camping. If you want to sleep in your car, RV, or camper, you must book your own campsite reservation.
- Lodging: Upgrade to Yosemite Valley Lodge or 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! Participants 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.
Helpful trip planning resources:
