Did you know inspiration is a skill you can develop? In this workshop (or really, the ongoing theme and practice of this retreat) we’ll discuss the practical steps you can take to nourish that deeply magical and renewable part of yourself. Its rewards will return to you daily, year after year.

These practices have completely changed our lives, and we can’t wait to share them with you!

The natural world is rich with beauty, and one of the most gratifying ways we experience and celebrate that beauty is by taking photos and videos that share our unique points of view.

To capture a scene in a photograph is, in a way, paying respect to the beauty you are witnessing. It is an honor.

In this workshop, we will guide you through intuitive photography and video techniques, how to develop your unique point of view, and how we approach creating and capturing a meaningful image.

Our natural ink, plant dying, and foraging workshops are a beautiful time to connect intimately with the landscape and to learn about the art of sustainable art-making. Along with a local foraging expert, we will take you on a journey through the local flora and fauna so you can learn to identify and gather natural materials for dyeing. From the vibrant colors of wildflowers to the earthy tones of tree bark or mushrooms, you'll discover the beauty and versatility of natural dyes and inks.

Embark on a journey of natural beauty and creativity as Tanya guides you through a captivating demonstration. With her expert instruction, you'll discover the art of crafting your own silk scarf using flowers and plants as your palette.

Explore the historical significance of botanical dyes, diving into an ancient yet modern practice. With a gentle touch, vibrant flowers and plants reveal the promise of transforming silk into a canvas of natural hues.

Instructions become a dance of technique and imagination. Witness the meticulous process of arranging botanicals on silk, infusing each placement with artistic intention and a deeper connection to nature.

Steaming and heat work their magic, unveiling colors collaboratively born from you, the plants, and the essence of creation.

As the demonstration concludes, hold in your hands not just a scarf, but a testament to partnership with the Earth. This guidance fosters newfound appreciation for the beauty nature and human artistry can conjure.

Finding pigment in the landscape and transforming it into paint is one of the most gratifying practices. We’ll then transform this pigment into oil paint, watercolor, acrylic, and dyes can be used on canvas (and then the magic takes over.)

Using natural, non-toxic minerals, we'll create stunning works of art that are both beautiful and sustainable.

There is a lot of mystery in natural pigments — the ways they interact and react, the chemistry in play on your canvas… pure magic.

Using our foraged plants, bark, and mushrooms, Tanya will guide us in creating unique inks which we will then use to create original artwork with this magical, deeply inspiring medium.

This workshop will take you through the entire process of making natural inks from start to finish. We'll start by foraging for materials in the surrounding landscape and gardens, then create our own inks using simple techniques that anyone can master.

Once our inks are ready, we'll dive into the creative process and use them to make beautiful, one-of-a-kind artwork.

This workshop will take you through the entire process of creating a painting inspired by Frankenthaler's iconic style. We'll start by foraging for materials in the surrounding wilderness and then move on to creating our own natural pigments using simple techniques.

With our pigments ready, we'll dive into the creative process and use them to create beautiful, abstract paintings on paper and canvas that capture the essence of the landscape, the emotion and energy you are tapping into, and the beauty in the world around you.

Whether you're an experienced artist or a complete beginner, this workshop is designed to inspire and challenge you and help you develop your own unique artistic voice.

Creativity takes many forms, and what a gratifying and delicious way to use your creativity!

Led by our retreat chef and pasta maker, this hands-on workshop will immerse you in the traditions of Italian cuisine as you learn to make your own pasta from scratch using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. I personally CANNOT WAIT!

Painting outdoors, on location (plain air) awakens your inspiration and creativity in new ways. You have to literally work with the elements, the light, the scene in front of you. All of it comes to life in your artwork and the deeply immersed inspiration you experienced shines through.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Italian countryside and hone your painting skills as we explore the landscape together — finding the perfect place to create and the methods we use while painting outdoors in nature.