Join artist Kim Smith for a joyful week of creativity, where participants will explore the beauty of floral painting. Using photos as inspiration, Kim will guide the group in creating expressive oil paintings that capture the freshness and spontaneity of flowers. Throughout the retreat, Kim will demonstrate essential skills such as underpainting, working with transparent vs. opaque colors, building a strong palette, and color mixing techniques. Her teaching style encourages freedom, confidence, and play — reminding students that painting should always be fun. No prior experience is needed, and participants will be supported every step of the way in a relaxed, encouraging environment. Open to ages 18+.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Kim Myers Smith
Cost: $1,596
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-781-4389

Learn to paint looser and more confidently during this four-day workshop with artist Sarah Sedwick. Take a step-by-step approach to alla prima oil painting, from black-and-white studies to brilliant color. Build a beautiful composition with life and movement, and get a new perspective on the still life. Instead of struggling with overworking your paintings, practice stopping sooner to keep the freshness you crave in your work! Explore how limitations can set you free, creating a painting in 20 brushstrokes, and another in 20 minutes. Learn the fundamentals of good design, and walk step-by-step through Sarah’s process, creating a dynamic still life from start to finish! Oils and acrylics are welcome - particularly Open acrylics, that stay wet longer.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Sarah Sedwick
Cost: $1,596
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-781-4389