Summer brings vivid pops of color and lush greenery to Yosemite Valley. Join professional artist Steve Curl to welcome the fresh blooms and greenery of Yosemite Valley, while spending a long weekend capturing the park’s seasonal scenery in watercolor.
Over the course of three days, you’ll sharpen your artistic skills as you practice creating a balanced composition, capturing shifting lights and shadows, and using layers of color to build a scene. You’ll end the weekend with a fresh perspective on Yosemite, fresh artwork to take home, and a new suite of tips and techniques to draw on as you continue exploring the world of watercolor.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Program dates: May 2–May 4
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artist Steve Curl.
- Four nights of tent camping — shared amongst participants in Yosemite Valley — or upgrade to a hotel room at Yosemite Valley Lodge 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 May 1 after 12 pm and must depart on May 5 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 Yosemite Valley Lodge 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: Intermediate artists; 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.
Helpful trip planning resources:
