This workshop will focus on “seeing” accurate color in the skin tones and color mixing, while painting from a live model. We will look at how “light on form” breaks down into simple relative values, how the values affect the color chroma and temperature, and how the color of the light source affects the local color. Instructor will demonstrate how to use a chromatic palette of colors to mix the right value as well as beautiful, luminous skin tones. We will use a grey toned surface so that we can paint directly with color after doing a simple block in. Students can choose whether they want to focus on the portrait or the figure. One-on-one feedback at your easels in a supportive, friendly atmosphere.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ellen Cooper
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Paint from a life model in long, multi-class poses to develop and refine your figure painting compositions. Extended poses will allow students to adjust and resolve issues of surface, color, and composition. Instruction will cover a variety of topics including glazing, broken color, surface texture, composition and design, the relationship of the figure to the environment, the creation of atmosphere and color harmony, disrupted realism, and open- versus closed-form painting. All levels welcome. Instruction will be geared toward oil, but students are welcome to draw-only, or use other appropriate media, if they wish. Note: Tuition includes a $35 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: David Wilson
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Learn the techniques and tools of figure sculpture through demonstration and hands-on sculpting from the model. Explore anatomy, proportion, gesture, and design through the versatility of clay. Personal expression will be emphasized though representational and abstract approaches. Open to all levels and perfect for beginners. Tuition includes a $35 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Colleen O'Donnell
Cost: $230
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Explore the world of portrait painting in a fresh, playful way as you capture your own likeness—or that of a friend—using any medium you love, from oil and acrylics to pastels, pencils, or mixed media. Under the expert guidance of renowned artist and instructor Joyce Nagel, discover countless tips and techniques to bring personality and life to your portraits. Each session is packed with hands-on demonstrations, creative exercises, and personalized feedback, ensuring you gain confidence and skill while having fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned painter, this class promises a supportive, inspiring environment where your unique style can shine. By the end, you’ll have your very own expressive portrait to proudly share!
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Joyce Nagel
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

In this three day workshop various techniques for approaching drawing with pastels will be explored drawing with a live model, and instructed by award winning artist, Cliff Austin. For beginner to advanced artists; students with some figure drawing experience will benefit the most.
 
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Instructor: Cliff Austin
Cost: $267
Sponsor: Art of Modeling
Website, email, 831-421-2684

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

This intensive workshop is designed for those looking to push their portrait drawing abilities toward the professional level. Demonstrations and in-class exercises will open up how you see, think, and approach the creation of a likeness, avoiding common pitfalls. Explore subtleties of form and the relationships of lines, planes and tones, capturing the character and energy of the subject. Additionally, instruction will cover facial expressions and deep anatomy of the face, neck, and upper body. Drawing will be primarily in graphite pencil and stick. Introductory portrait drawing or equivalent recommended. Note: Tuition includes a $10 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: RA Friedman
Cost: $205
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

The Art of Modeling's Jamaica Figure Drawing Retreat is a travel opportunity rich with arts and culture for all levels of artists who want to immerse themselves in figurative drawing and painting in tropical plein air scenes with Jamaican art models. Every artist needs a moment to step away from routine—to rediscover their voice, challenge their eye, and reconnect with the why behind their work. A figurative art retreat in Jamaica offers all of that and more. It's not just a trip; it’s a creative reset. One that can change the way you see people, space, and yourself and that will have an impact that stays with you long after the flight home.
 
Location: Negril, Jamaica
Instructor: Moderated
Cost: $3,995
Sponsor: Art of Modeling
Website, email, 831-421-2684

Absolutely no drawing experience necessary in David Lobenberg’s California Vibe Watercolor Portraiture™ workshop. He uses a reference photo and tracing technique that’s super simple to execute. The creativity and painting fun begins during the painting process! Through his step-by-step demonstrations and question-and-answer sessions, he leads artists down a path of expressive, energetic and evocative portrait painting. Lobenberg has over forty years of experience conducting both studio and plein air water media workshops across the United State, Canada as well as via zoom and his online California Vibe School of Watercolor™. David received his Master’s-in-Art degree from UCLA and has taught for seventeen years (now retired) as an adjunct art professor at Sacramento City College. For more information, visit lobenbergart.com
 
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: David Lobenberg
Cost: $575 Museum members/ $625 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372

If you’re a beginner or looking to strengthen your fundamentals, this all-inclusive (minus airfare) bootcamp-style retreat in Provence is for you. Learn traditional techniques, build confidence, and discover the joy of painting in a supportive, immersive environment. Created by founder Julie Snyder, this workshop includes painting drills, demos, one-on-one sessions, and expert feedback—all designed to help you grow. Work alongside experienced instructors at a historic 13th-century château overlooking the Luberon Valley. Enjoy plein air sessions on the estate and excursions to nearby villages, vineyards, and markets. Whether you’re new to art or transitioning to plein air, this unforgettable experience will elevate your skills while letting you soak up the beauty, culture, and charm of southern France.
 
Location: Provence, France
Instructor: Julie Snyder, Shirley Hambrick & more
Cost: $5,250 USD (All inclusive minus airfare)
Sponsor: Workshops in France
Website, email, 818-533-2363

An unforgettable artistic journey awaits. During this immersive week-long retreat, artists will be invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and be fully present in every moment—savoring each color, texture, and sensation. Painting without fear or judgment becomes the gateway to curiosity, and through curiosity, to profound discovery. Set along the luminous Mediterranean coast, this retreat invites you to capture the region’s enchanting landscapes and its charming nearby villages, guided by the insight and inspiration of Lori Putnam. Together, you will explore a more intentional approach to art—one rooted in mindfulness and authentic self-expression. Each day offers space to unwind, rejuvenate, and rediscover the joy of play, allowing your work to soar with new depth and freedom. Limited spots available.
 
Location: Marsala, Sicily, Italy
Instructor: Lori Putnam
Cost: Starts at € 2650
Sponsor: Salinara - Art Farm | Retreat Centre
Website, email, (+39) 339 77 57 062

This retreat will focus on painting beautiful portraits from life, and incorporating environmental elements in our paintings. We will warm up with head studies and some of the basics of traditional portraiture, and gradually work towards painting the figure in a landscape or interior setting. There will be many opportunities to compose dynamic paintings that include architecture, trees and gardens, and of course, the figure. Anna will work in oil, but students are welcome to paint with the medium of their choice. Anna will walk you through everything from color mixing and creating an accurate block-in, to creating harmony in your painting and beautiful edges. There will also be opportunities for plein air painting and critique sessions.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Anna Rose Bain
Cost: €3499
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

Join international artist and art educator Wendy Artin at Atelier Clos Mirabel in South West France for a week-long painting workshop. Enjoy painting instruction exploring the finer details of nature through wet washes and colour, light and form. All levels are welcome from complete beginners to professionals. We will spend 5 mornings painting the live model for 2 hours, with poses ranging from 30 seconds to 20 minutes. After personally picking a still life subject from the gardens of Atelier Clos Mirabel, we will paint preparatory sketches and work on longer paintings, experimenting with wet on wet, edge control, composition, shadows, and colour. There will be one free day mid-week for visiting the surrounding area or painting on one’s own.
 
Location: Pau, France
Instructor: Wendy Artin
Cost: 1895€ to 2995€ for accommodation + tuition fee
Sponsor: Atelier Clos Mirabel
Website, email, +33.6.79.59.04.91

Jane Hunt returns for another epic landscape workshop hosted by Workshops in France, this time in the heart of Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park. Over nine days, you'll paint majestic lochs, charming towns, and iconic Balmoral Castle surrounded by forested highlands. Jane, an award-winning landscape artist, offers personalized instruction alongside immersive coaching in plein air techniques. The experience includes guided excursions, studio-style demos, and painting time in scenic locations, ideal for both intermediate and advanced painters. Held at a beautiful estate in Royal Deeside, this retreat blends art, nature, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re deepening your outdoor painting skills or seeking inspiration from dramatic Scottish landscapes, this workshop promises transformative artistic growth and unforgettable memories. All inclusive (minus airfare)
 
Location: Highlands, Scotland
Instructor: Jane Hunt
Cost: $6,200 USD (All inclusive minus airfare)
Sponsor: Workshops in France
Website, email, 8185332363

Award-winning figurative artist Ruth Fitton leads an inspiring workshop on Scotland’s rugged east coast. Immerse yourself in an all-inclusive (minus airfare) painting retreat designed to deepen your representational skills through immersive plein air and studio instruction. Over several days, you’ll explore dramatic coastal scenes and scenic countryside under Ruth’s expert guidance. Expect intensive demos, group painting sessions, and individual coaching in techniques such as narrative portraiture, texture, form, edge control, and alla prima brushwork. Held at a beautiful estate in the region, the experience includes accommodation, meals, and ground transportation. Whether you're refining studio practices outdoors or embracing the Scottish landscape as your palette, this workshop promises transformative learning, artistic growth, and unforgettable creative experiences.
 
Location: Angus, Scotland
Instructor: Ruth Fitton
Cost: $6,300 USD (All inclusive minus airfare)
Sponsor: Workshops in France
Website, email, 8185332363

This workshop in the beautiful Le Marche region of Italy will focus on learning to draw and paint a portrait from life. Starting with a focus on drawing, with an emphasis on the 4 main aspects of a portrait: Proportion, Value, Colour, and Edge, we will progress to using wet-on-wet techniques to paint a number of Alla Prima portraits from life. Mick will demonstrate how to approach the drawing of the portrait (both in charcoal and in oils), showing how to break down the portrait into systematic and consecutive steps, moving from large shapes to small shapes, simplifying, and how to revise the painting as you go to get the most out of your drawing and painting skills.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Mick McNicholas
Cost: €3499
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

Step into a world of creativity and inspiration at this transformative art retreat in the breathtaking landscapes of Italy. This immersive experience is designed for artists of all levels—whether you’re just beginning your creative journey or looking to deepen your artistic practice. Together, we’ll explore PanPastel portraiture, field journaling, watercolor studies, mixed media storytelling collage and on-location sketching, all while soaking in the rich atmosphere of Italy. We’ll take our sketchbooks into cobblestone streets, quiet gardens, and sun-drenched piazzas for some urban sketching and watercolor play and swatching. We’ll also spend time in nature, doing studies of local flora and fauna—slowing down to observe the beauty of our surroundings. Learn to release perfectionism and embrace joyful experimentation!
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Ivy Newport
Cost: €3699
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

Immerse yourself in a weeklong journey of creativity, growth, and connection in beautiful Italy. Guided by Jenny Grant, you’ll explore her mixed media process with collage, acrylic painting, and expressive portraits, all while discovering the joy of letting go and embracing your unique creative voice. You’ll connect with a group of like-minded creatives, creating friendships as you learn, and explore Italy together. By the end of the week, you’ll leave with a new approach to your art, full of inspiration, and amazing memories. We will also create a simple art journal to document our creative journey, capturing meaningful moments and exploring the freedom of creating without attachment to perfection. This retreat is open to all levels.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Jenny Grant
Cost: €3499
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

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

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

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 award-winning Japanese artist Keiko Tanabe for an unforgettable watercolor experience in Sicily! We are thrilled to welcome Keiko back to our island for the sixth time — a truly special opportunity to paint under her masterful guidance in one of the most inspiring destinations in the world. During this workshop, Keiko will guide you through a variety of subjects — from breathtaking Mediterranean seascapes and rolling landscapes to historic cityscapes and charming indoor scenes at our authentic Sicilian farmhouse. Keiko’s workshop is open to all skill levels — from enthusiastic beginners to experienced painters. .Limited spots available
 
Location: Marsala, Sicily, Italy
Instructor: Keiko Tanabe
Cost: Starts at € 2500
Sponsor: Salinara - Art Farm | Retreat Centre
Website, email, (+39) 339 77 57 062

Storytelling versus Story Painting? Or maybe not versus? Let’s tell your story in a painting. In this class, we will learn how to tell your story, convey atmosphere, and feel, and understand colors, lines, focal-point, framing, and depth. You can add (or deduct) from the painting that will tell your story! Let us hear your tale! an ongoing class and instructions. From the prehistoric images in the caves to Edward Hopper... from the bible in pictures to the most modern painters of our times... We will set our subjects in 4 meetings. If you miss a class there will be a recording available.
 
Location: Web-delivered (Online)
Instructor: Tali Farchi
Cost: $125 for 4 meetings
Sponsor: Artist Table
Website, email, 0031624903316

An international group meets online via Zoom every Wednesday (check your time zone). Short and long poses, from 5-10 minutes and 20-30 minutes. Each week I invite a new model to pose. There is always some music in the background that I'm sharing too. 2 hours session. No instruction. At the end of the session, we show each other the work. Friendly atmosphere, everyone is welcome!
 
Location: Web-delivered (Online)
Instructor: Open session hosted by Tali Farchi
Cost: $15 per session
Sponsor: Artist Table
Website, email, 0031624903316