Yosemite Valley is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world — and there’s no better way to take it in than through the eyes of an artist! Join artist Nikki Frumkin on this art retreat to explore the energy of Yosemite Valley’s towering granite walls and sweeping golden meadows. Through color, movement, and watercolor, Nikki will help you translate your experience of this extraordinary place into art. You’ll develop the skills to create expressive on-location paintings while deepening your connection to the landscape around you. Using lightweight, Leave No Trace art supplies, you’ll tap into your creative practice without impacting this special place. With Nikki’s guidance, you’ll use colorful art to find inspiration, slow down, and create your own story of Yosemite — one brushstroke at a time.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Program dates: October 25–October 27
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artist Nikki Frumkin.
- Optional free day (October 28) 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 24 and must depart by 12 pm on October 29.
- 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: Participants must be familiar with using watercolor (no need to be advanced in skill) and 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:
