Bring along a fresh sketchbook and join artists Joa Suorez and Kelly Lee for three days of progressive nature journaling in the park. From iconic views to the smallest wildflower, you’ll have the chance to slow down and connect deeply with Yosemite in fall. In addition to learning the basics of plein air painting with gouache — including tips on loose sketching, color mixing, and composition — you’ll compose field poems and notes that translate your unique experience of the park into a vivid, personal account. The class will also take participants off the beaten path, with group trips to the far corners of the Valley and Yosemite’s highcoutry. With an emphasis on helping you honor and hone your own approach, this retreat welcomes experimentation and playfulness and is open to artists and poets of all levels.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Program dates: October 6–October 8
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artists Joa Suorez and Kelly Lee.
- Optional free day (October 9) to explore the park on your own.
- Five nights of tent camping in Yosemite Valley — campsites shared by all participants — or upgrade to lodging for an additional fee.
- There is no discount if you choose not to stay at the group campsite or utilize the additional free day.
- 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 5 and must depart by 12 pm on October 10.
- 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:
