Spend three transformative days in Tuolumne Meadows, discovering the art of watercolor with local artist Zach Polic. Begin with foundational lessons in composition, color, and value, designed to build your confidence and spark creativity. Paint amidst sweeping alpine meadows, glacier-formed granite domes, and quiet streams at the meadow’s edge. Let go of expectations, embrace the joy of observing nature, and create art inspired by the landscape. By the end, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of watercolor, a collection of original landscape paintings, and the inspiration to continue your artistic journey. This retreat is built for painters who don’t mind a little dirt under their nails — trading comfort for the raw, unfiltered beauty of Yosemite’s high country!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Program dates: July 27–July 29
- Program location: Tuolumne Meadows
- What’s included:
- Three days of progressive learning and outdoor painting with artist Zach Polic.
- Four nights of tent camping in Tuolumne Meadows — 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.
- 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 Tuolumne Meadows Campground in Tuolumne Meadows.
- Participants can arrive after 12 pm on July 26 and must depart by 12 pm on July 30.
- 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 Tuolumne Meadows 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: Open to intermediate artists. Participants must also 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:
