In this multi-day art workshop with artist Molly Hashimoto, you’ll explore the extraordinary landscape of Yosemite through sketching and watercolor painting. Working outdoors and drawing inspiration from the park’s natural wonders, you’ll learn to observe and capture shapes, color, light, and seasonal change while deepening your understanding of the landscape and your own creative process. Molly’s relaxed, unfussy approach encourages students to work freely and expressively. You’ll begin with loose, quick pencil sketches to establish the major shapes and masses, then build your paintings with watercolor to explore light, color, and atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll discover practical techniques for simplifying complex landscapes and finding the details that make a place feel alive. Slow down, observe closely, and experience Yosemite through the creative practice of sketching and painting!
Know Before You Go:
- Program dates: June 9–June 11
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artist Molly Hashimoto.
- Optional free day (June 12) 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 June 8 and must depart by 12 pm on June 13.
- 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 details: 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 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:
