Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day painting holiday taught by renowned artist Maggie Hellmann. Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor cheese fondue and local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Haute-Savoie, France
Instructor: Maggie Hellmann
Cost: starts at US $3,840
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day painting vacation taught by renowned artist Ellen Howard. Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor cheese fondue and local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Haute-Savoie, France
Instructor: Ellen Howard
Cost: starts at US $3,840
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day travel painting vacation taught by renowned artist Kirah Van Sickle. Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor cheese fondue and local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Haute-Savoie, France
Instructor: Kirah Van Sickle
Cost: starts at US $3,840
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

From the moment you arrive in Avignon, we take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy yourself. Learn from Carol Roark, an oil painter artist, who is passionate about helping you flourish. Her expert guidance will inspire confidence and elevate your technique, no matter your skill level. Experience unparalleled attention from two friendly guides who stay with the group at all times, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience. Indulge in delicious Provençal cuisine, from fresh market fare to exquisite dinners paired with local wines. Paint at breathtaking spots, and enjoy some outings so you can immerse yourself in the culture. Our tours are also about laughter and connection. You’ll form meaningful friendships and create memories that last a lifetime.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Carol Roark
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by renowned artist Brenda Swenson. Picture yourself painting by the peaceful banks of the Sorgue river as the cheerful hum of cicadas fills the warm afternoon or strolling through the vibrant Provencal markets where the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread mingles with the colorful bustle of vendors. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Brenda Swenson
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

A unique 11-night art workshop/art tour open to artists of all levels and media (oils, acrylics, watercolors, etc.). 7 days of plein-air painting, art history/theory lectures, and gastronomy in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence followed by 4 days visiting Barcelona’s top art sites and enjoying Catalan cuisine. The price of CAD 4890 per person (around US$ 3570) includes instruction, 11-night double accommodation, 11 breakfasts, 6 healthy lunches, 6 gourmet dinners including wine, transportation from the Manosque train station to our lodge, transportation to all painting sites, TGV train ticket Avignon-Barcelona, transportation and entrance fees to all sites on schedule (Cézanne’s studio, La Sagrada Familia, Picasso Museum, Miró Museum, etc.). Limited single rooms for a supplement of CAD 885 (around US$ 650).
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Prof. Yves M. Larocque
Cost: US$3570
Sponsor: Walk the Arts
Website, email, 800-611-4789

Join Nina Weiss & European Landscape Workshops 2026: Now in our 26th year! Cruise through the idyllic painter's paradise of French countryside on our private hotel barge the Luciole, combined with expert guidance, and time for your own creative flow. Your Workshop fee is all inclusive: private transfer to and from Paris to the Luciole, all instruction, lecture and demonstrations from Nina, gastronomic food and wines with a well stocked open bar, all visits, tours and tuition. Your crew of six creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for which the Luciole is renown. Bicycles are available on board for your use. All mediums and levels. Maximum of 12 students. Join our group for this enchanting, specially priced art cruise!
 
Location: Paris/Burgundy Region, France
Instructor: Nina Weiss
Cost: $5,525
Sponsor: NinaWeiss/Art Endeavors European Landscape Workshops
Website, email, 847-840-0527

We’ve chartered the entire ship! So, excluding the friendly crew and staff, just about every passenger will be a fellow sketcher! Your three master workshop instructors are: Brenda Swenson, Shari Blaukopf and Suhita Shirodkhar! This once-in-a-lifetime creative journey includes: 8 days and 7 nights of luxury travel on the historic River Rhine, from Amsterdam through Nijmegen-Arnheim (Holland), to Cologne and Mainz (Germany), through Strasbourg and Ribeauvillé (France), finally docking in Basel (Switzerland). Enjoy on-board sketching sessions, where you’ll learn how to quickly capture natural scenes, skies and townscapes as we sail to our next destination. You will have time to wander, shop and absorb local culture at every stop — or simply sit and continue sketching to your heart’s content.
 
Location: Strasbourg & Ribeauvillé, France
Instructor: Brenda, Shari and Suhita
Cost: starts at € 4,990
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join Barbara Hirsekorn for a fun week exploring watercolour sketching in the beautiful grounds and surroundings of Atelier Clos Mirabel in South West France. This course is suitable for both beginners with basic knowledge and experienced watercolour painters. The workshop combines demonstrations, discussions about materials and techniques, practical exercises to develop skills, with plenty of individual attention and feedback. The topics of picture composition, colour theory and spatial drawing/painting are also covered in the course. We will alternate between plein air and studio work in the protected atmosphere of the Atelier. Two outings are included. A minimum of two hours walking and standing in front of the motive for a certain amount of time are required from participants.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Barbara Hirsekorn
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + 550 € tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Imagine a place where every village looks hand-painted, every vineyard rolls like a brushstroke across the hills, and every street corner whispers tales from centuries past. Welcome to Alsace - a jewel of eastern France where French charm and German soul mingle in perfect harmony, creating a cultural tapestry as rich and nuanced as a watercolor wash. Medieval towns, with their flower-laden balconies and timber-framed homes, feel like they've stepped out of a fairytale and onto your sketchpad. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you'll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Alsace, France
Instructor: Shari Blaukopf
Cost: starts at US $4,190
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join Róisín Curé for a fun week exploring the joys of sketching in ink and watercolour. Each day we’ll be out and about, choosing small scenes in which you can capture a beautiful vignette of the area, with the technique of the day being given centre stage. Food, buildings, landscape, people, interiors – or whatever we encounter – the aim is to discover this beautiful area of South West France. Róisín will demonstrate and teach the key elements for on-location sketching and will encourage you to sketch wherever and whenever you can, thereby building confidence in your sketching techniques and leading you to a lifetime of joyful creativity.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Róisín Curé
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + 500 Euros tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Join Samantha Dion Baker for a fun week exploring the joys of sketching and watercolour. Create your own original artwork and discover a beautiful area of South West France. This workshop at Atelier Clos Maribel explores the art of seeing and storytelling through drawing, no matter your experience level. From abstract sketches to detailed renderings, there’s no right way to capture your world. Through hands-on exercises, you will get familiar with tools and materials, practice blind contour and continuous line drawing, as well as experimenting with colour, line, and composition. You will learn to organise your thoughts by creating meaningful visual narratives and challenge yourself to draw in new ways – all while capturing your adventures with confidence and creativity.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Samantha Dion Baker
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + $579 tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day painting vacation taught by renowned artist Leslie Fehling. Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor cheese fondue and local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Haute-Savoie, France
Instructor: Leslie Fehling
Cost: starts at US $3,840
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

A painting vacation like no other! Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day painting retreat taught by renowned artist Judy Salleh. Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor cheese fondue and local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Haute-Savoie, France
Instructor: Judy Salleh
Cost: starts at US $3,840
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by two renowned artists Cindy Briggs and Theresa Goesling. Picture yourself painting by the peaceful banks of the Sorgue river as the cheerful hum of cicadas fills the warm afternoon or strolling through the vibrant Provencal markets where the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread mingles with the colorful bustle of vendors. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Cindy Briggs & Theresa Goesling
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Award-winning watercolorist Marc Folly leads an immersive 9-day workshop in the scenic Languedoc region of Southwestern France. With his masterful control of light, color, and unconventional subjects—from sunlit interiors to industrial settings—Marc offers a poetic and bold approach to watercolor painting. The workshop is all-inclusive (minus airfare) and includes château-style accommodation at a historic olive-mill estate, meals and ground transportation. Expect daily demos, guided exercises, group critiques, and personalized one-on-one feedback under Marc’s expert instruction. Enjoy excursions to hilltop villages, markets, vineyards, and private vineyards as painting inspiration. Whether you're experienced or simply seeking creative expansion, this retreat promises artistic growth, camaraderie, and deep immersion in one of France’s most captivating regions.
 
Location: Moulin in Languedoc, France
Instructor: Marc Folly
Cost: $5,600 USD (All inclusive minus airfare)
Sponsor: Workshops in France
Website, email, 818 533 2363

Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by two renowned artists Cindy Briggs and Theresa Goesling. Picture yourself painting by the peaceful banks of the Sorgue river as the cheerful hum of cicadas fills the warm afternoon or strolling through the vibrant Provencal markets where the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread mingles with the colorful bustle of vendors. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Cindy Briggs & Theresa Goesling
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Monet’s village of Giverny, Van Gogh’s field in Auvers sur Oise and the surrounding villages seem to be just made for watercolor. Complex juicy color transitions, bright sun and all the incredible flowers and architecture are just begging to be caught on the tip of your brush. An excellent program of relaxation and enjoyment of the French Alps will be combined with a very rich and informative workshop. Moving from place to place, we will find the right solutions every time to create vibrant and sunny watercolors. I have developed the program of the workshop so that every day will be a new discovery for you!
 
Location: Giverny, France
Instructor: Michael Solovyev
Cost: starts at US $3,840
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join master watercolorists Joseph Zbukvic and Lisa Wang for an immersive, all-inclusive (minus airfare) nine-day artistic retreat near the Côte d'Azur. Set on a picturesque vineyard estate minutes from the Mediterranean, the workshop begins with a two-day indoor masterclass led by Lisa, teaching how to create emotive, spontaneous images from photo references. This transitions into four plein air painting days under Joseph’s expert instruction among hilltop villages, estate grounds, and coastal vistas. Expect daily demos, group painting sessions, individual critiques, and supportive coaching all included—plus estate accommodation, meals and ground transportation. Non-painting partners welcome. Whether you’re advancing your watercolor practice or seeking fresh inspiration, this retreat offers transformative learning in stunning southern France.
 
Location: Côte d'Azur, France
Instructor: Joseph Zbukvic & Lisa Wang
Cost: $6,100 USD (All inclusive minus airfare)
Sponsor: Workshops in France
Website, email, 818 533 2363

Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by renowned artist Randy Hale. Picture yourself painting by the peaceful banks of the Sorgue river as the cheerful hum of cicadas fills the warm afternoon or strolling through the vibrant Provencal markets where the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread mingles with the colorful bustle of vendors. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Randy Hale
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in art and culture while everything is planned for you. Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by renowned artist Sarah Burns. Picture yourself painting by the peaceful banks of the Sorgue river as the cheerful hum of cicadas fills the warm afternoon or strolling through the vibrant Provencal markets where the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread mingles with the colorful bustle of vendors. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Sarah Burns
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join acclaimed plein air artists Josh Clare & Bryan Mark Taylor for an immersive, all-inclusive (minus airfare) painting retreat in Provence, near the Côte d’Azur. Set at a charming historic moulin nestled in the stunning countryside, the workshop blends the emotional resonance of Clare’s expressive light-filled scenes with Taylor’s dynamic cityscape and landscape expertise. Over eight inspiring days, expect guided plein air sessions, daily demos, group critiques, and individualized instruction designed to deepen your understanding of light, atmosphere, composition, and narrative. Included are accommodation, meals, ground transportation and excursions across villages and vineyards. Non-painting partners are welcome too! Whether you’re expanding your technical skills or seeking creative revitalization, this French experience promises artistic growth and memorable immersion in beauty.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Josh Clare & Bryan Mark Taylor
Cost: $6,150 USD (All inclusive minus airfare)
Sponsor: Workshops in France
Website, email, 818 533 2363

Join international artist and art educator Jenny Aitken, RSMA at Atelier Clos Mirabel in S.W France for a week-long painting retreat. Jenny Aitken,is a full-time painter and writes regularly for The Artist Magazine. She has taught thousands of students throughout her career, and recently authored the book Painting into the Light. During this workshop, emphasis is put on capturing movement, light and texture. Jenny will guide you to finding the best paths to capture these elements and provide you with the necessary tools and techniques to achieve your personal goals with demonstrations and plenty of one-to-one teaching. Each week is unique, focusing on plein air study alongside studio techniques.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Jenny Aitken, RSMA
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + £500 for tuition
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Immerse yourself in art and culture while everything is planned for you. Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by renowned artist Sarah Burns. Picture yourself painting by the peaceful banks of the Sorgue river as the cheerful hum of cicadas fills the warm afternoon or strolling through the vibrant Provencal markets where the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread mingles with the colorful bustle of vendors. Relish the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Sarah Burns
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join Rita Sabler for a week of Travel Sketching in South West France, documenting your journey in ink and watercolour. Framed by the snowcapped Pyrénées mountains – where vineyard-covered hills roll gently beneath snow-dusted peaks and evenings glow with unforgettable sunsets – we invite you to explore the art of the travel sketchbook. There’s a familiar moment when arriving somewhere new: a sense of wonder so vivid and fresh. While a photograph can capture the scene, it often misses the deeper experience of truly seeing and connecting. Sketching slows you down. It encourages observation, curiosity, and presence, turning fleeting impressions into something far more meaningful and enduring. Join us in capturing the spirit of a place that has moved artists for generations!
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Rita Sabler
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Join Barbara Hirsekorn for a fun week exploring watercolour sketching in the beautiful grounds and surroundings of Atelier Clos Mirabel in South West France. This course is suitable for both beginners with basic knowledge and experienced watercolour painters. The workshop combines demonstrations, discussions about materials and techniques, practical exercises to develop skills, with plenty of individual attention and feedback. The topics of picture composition, colour theory and spatial drawing/painting are also covered in the course. We will alternate between plein air and studio work in the protected atmosphere of the Atelier. Two outings are included. A minimum of two hours walking and standing in front of the motive for a certain amount of time are required from participants.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Barbara Hirsekorn
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + 550 € tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Step into the golden light and timeless beauty of Provence where Van Gogh once wandered, sketched, and painted with passionate intensity. This immersive plein air painting workshop, taught by renowned artist Rose Irelan, invites you to slow down and truly see the world around you. We’ll explore some of France’s most picturesque villages. You’ll find timeless vignettes: sunlit villages with old stone houses draped in flowers, bubbling fountains, cobbled streets, medieval churches, and sweeping views across the valleys— each day offers a new scene to explore and interpret in paint. We’ll embrace bold expression, luminous color, and reverence for the land. Rose will be demonstrating in oil and gouache but all mediums are welcome—including watercolor, acrylic, and pastel.
 
Location: Luberon, France
Instructor: Rose Irelan
Cost: starts at US $4,175
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join us to paint in the footsteps of the Impressionist masters on this unforgettable plein air painting vacation in France! Maggie is an award-winning impressionist painter, well known for her exciting color, strong compositions and loose brushwork. And Maggie loves to teach painting almost as much as she loves to paint. We’ll paint in Monet’s village of Giverny, Van Gogh’s field in Auvers sur Oise, beautiful Honfleur and more. Inspired all around by French charm, we’ll paint our impressions, dine exquisitely, share gorgeous sights and the camaraderie of fellow painters, all while learning and growing our craft. Designed for artists of all levels. Maggie will demonstrate in oil and watercolor, but is happy to help with acrylics and pastels as well.
 
Location: Giverny, France
Instructor: Maggie Hellmann
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day painting vacation taught by renowned artist Manon Sander. Capture the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley, where the mountain pine fills the air. Whether you are looking to refine your technique, ignite that creative spark, or simply enjoy painting with other artists in an inspiring setting, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the French Alps and create memorable works of art under expert guidance. All demonstrations will be done in gouache but participants are welcome to paint in the medium of their choice: oil, acrylic or gouache.
 
Location: Chamonix, France
Instructor: Manon Sander
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the French Alps on this unforgettable 8-day painting vacation taught by renowned artist Geoffrey Allen. Geoffrey’s teaching practice begins with watercolor handling, color mixing, getting the most expression out of your brushes, contour drawing and separating the values of light and shade. He will touch on basic perspective, color temperature and value – all while emphasizing a fresh and expressive application of paint. These topics will help us quickly capture the mood and atmosphere on full display for us in the French Alps - the golden glow of alpine meadows, the crisp reflections of snow-capped peaks in crystal-clear lakes, and the charming villages nestled in the valley. Come join us on this painting adventure!
 
Location: Chamonix, France
Instructor: Geoffrey Allen
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the storybook region of Alsace on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop! You’ll enjoy inspiring locations such as quaint villages, colorful facades, green rivers and vineyards. Artists Cindy Briggs and Theresa Goesling will provide daily painting demonstrations, personalized instruction, and encouraging support. They will show you how to simplify your subject, draw confidently, jazz up your colors, paint with serendipity and create colorful paintings en Plein Air with your own unique point of view. Join us for this dreamy adventure in France, relishing the camaraderie of like-minded artists as you savor gourmet meals and sip velvety local wines. You’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Alsace, France
Instructor: Cindy Briggs & Theresa Goesling
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop. We’ll paint among fragrant gardens, colourful market stalls, canals and quiet medieval lanes. We’ll follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, finding inspiration in the same light and landscape that shaped his work. Throughout the retreat, I’ll break each demonstration into clear, manageable steps so you can relax, paint, and truly absorb each stage of the process. My aim is to help you gain confidence with watercolour – whether it’s learning how much water to use, how to simplify complex scenes, or how to capture fleeting light and movement on the page. We’ll focus on practical techniques that make plein-air and travel sketching feel approachable and exciting!
 
Location: Luberon, France
Instructor: Cheryl Bruce
Cost: starts at US $4,390
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

We’ve chartered the entire ship! So, excluding the friendly crew and staff, just about every passenger will be a fellow sketcher! Your four workshop instructors are: Cindy Briggs & Theresa Goesling, Judy Salleh and Leslie Fehling! This once-in-a-lifetime creative journey includes: 8 days and 7 nights of luxury travel on the historic River Rhine, from Basel (Switzerland), through Ribeauvillé and Strasbourg (France), to Mainz and Cologne (Germany), from Arnheim to Nijmegen (The Netherlands), finally docking in Amsterdam. We will paint as the journey unfolds—sometimes on the boat as it glides along the water, other times outdoors in the heart of beautiful cities. You’ll have plenty of time to wander, absorb the local culture, and enjoy a bit of shopping.
 
Location: Ribeauvillé & Strasbourg, France
Instructor: 4 instructors
Cost: starts at € 4,990
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

A unique 11-night art workshop/art tour open to artists of all levels and media (oils, acrylics, watercolors). Seven days of plein-air painting, art history/theory lectures, and gastronomy in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence followed by four days visiting Barcelona’s top art sites and enjoying Catalan cuisine. The price of CAD 4990 per person (around US$ 3660) includes instruction, 11-night double accommodation, 11 breakfasts, 6 healthy lunches, 6 gourmet dinners, transportation from the Manosque train station to our house, transportation to all painting sites, TGV train ticket from Avignon to Barcelona, transportation and entrance fees to all sites on schedule (Cézanne’s studio, La Sagrada Familia, Picasso Museum, Miró Museum, etc.). Limited single rooms for a supplement of CAD 885 (around US$ 650).
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Prof. Yves M. Larocque
Cost: US$ 3660
Sponsor: Walk the Arts
Website, email, 800-611-4789

Join Róisín Curé for a fun week exploring the joys of sketching in ink and watercolour. Each day we’ll be out and about, choosing small scenes in which you can capture a beautiful vignette of the area, with the technique of the day being given centre stage. Food, buildings, landscape, people, interiors – or whatever we encounter – the aim is to discover this beautiful area of South West France. Róisín will demonstrate and teach the key elements for on-location sketching and will encourage you to sketch wherever and whenever you can, thereby building confidence in your sketching techniques and leading you to a lifetime of joyful creativity.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Róisín Curé
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + 500 Euros tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Follow the light that inspired the great Impressionists! In Honfleur, capture the reflections of colorful boats in the old harbor where Boudin and young Monet once painted side by side. Wander Giverny’s lush gardens, alive with the same water lilies and arched bridges that filled Monet’s canvases with color and movement. In Auvers-sur-Oise, you can paint the very landscapes that shaped Van Gogh’s most emotional works, standing where he once set his easel. Designed for artists of all levels, this creative retreat offers daily plein air sessions, expert guidance, and leisurely moments to savor gourmet meals and the camaraderie of fellow painters. Come experience the magic of Normandy’s light—and let it transform your art and your spirit.
 
Location: Giverny, France
Instructor: Eric Santoli
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join artist Michelle Held for an immersive plein air painting experience set in the breathtaking landscape of Provence. We’ll paint among fragrant gardens, colorful market stalls, canals and quiet medieval lanes. We’ll follow the footsteps of Van Gogh, finding inspiration in the same light and landscape that shaped his work. Daily demonstrations will be in both gouache and oil, focusing on brushwork, confident mark-making, and expressive design. This retreat is about more than technique! Together, we’ll slow down, observe deeply, and paint with intention - creating works that are not only visually strong, but emotionally resonant. Come ready to grow, explore, and connect with your art, with this incredible place, and with a community of kindred spirits.
 
Location: Luberon, France
Instructor: Michelle Held
Cost: starts at US $4,390
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Experience Normandy on an immersive artistic journey with Alicia Farris. Alicia adores sharing her passion for painting and inspires with her creative energy and loose and lively painting style. She helps her students to use color and light to paint a story from their hearts, not merely from what their eyes see. You’ll have the opportunity to watercolor paint, sketch and photograph your way through this spectacular region. Whether it’s the picturesque villages, narrow streets and cobblestone lanes or flowers and plants at the dreamlike gardens that inspire you, Alicia will guide you through the creative process. Come experience the magic of Normandy’s light—and let it transform your art and your spirit!
 
Location: Giverny, France
Instructor: Alicia Farris
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join artist Carol Roark for an immersive plein air painting holiday, set in the stunning French Alps! Deepen your skills while connecting with the beauty of nature alongside like-minded artists. Through a combination of demonstrations, and structured lessons, Carol will help you explore the foundational principles of strong painting: concept, composition, value, color, and edges. You’ll learn to build compelling designs and capture the essence of the scene before you. Carol will demo in both oil and gouache. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned painter, this course will help you sharpen your visual instincts, grow your confidence, and enjoy the sheer joy of painting outdoors. Together, we’ll soak in the beauty of the Alps—and have a great time doing it!
 
Location: Chamonix, France
Instructor: Carol Roark
Cost: starts at US $4,290
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Immerse yourself in the sun-dappled beauty of Provence on this unforgettable 8-day watercolor painting workshop taught by renowned artist Rehann Vazid. This plein-air workshop is designed to help artists break through hesitation and discover the power of bold painting! Rehann is a Melbourne-based (AUS) watercolour artist & educator known for his colorful, light-filled landscape paintings. Through gestural brushwork, strong composition and unapologetic color, participants will learn to trust their instincts and find their visual voice in watercolor. Beginners will discover essential watercolor basics; advanced painters will push into greater boldness and expression. With hands-on instruction, stunning scenery, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere, you’ll leave with not just new skills but cherished memories and a heart full of creative energy.
 
Location: Luberon, France
Instructor: Rehann Vazid
Cost: starts at US $4,390
Sponsor: French Escapade
Website, email, 510-584-6919

Join international artist and art educator Jenny Aitken as she returns at Atelier Clos Mirabel in SW France for a week-long painting retreat. Jenny Aitken, RSMA is a full-time painter and writes regularly for The Artist Magazine. During this class, emphasis is put on capturing movement, light and texture. Award winning artist Jenny Aitken is passionate about the depiction of light in paint. She has taught thousands of students throughout her career, and recently written a book on the subject, Painting into the Light. During this atelier in Ju¬ran¬çon, France, Jenny Aitken will cover all her methods and techniques, both in the studio and plein air.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Jenny Aitken, RSMA
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + £600 tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91