Dear reader,
Exciting news today! I’m hosting an intimate watercolor retreat this May in Paris. I’ve been researching artist retreats for some time to identify my own unique angle. Tuscany? South of France? Since I found my voice in Paris, matching the wonderment and beauty of the city with the process of mastering watercolor technique was a win-win scenario. When I found the historic artist studio venue of a friend, it all came together.
This boho chic 5-day retreat will ignite your creative spark and jump-start your creative practice. Much like in the spirit of this newsletter, master watercolor by painting sumptuous still life compositions, live models, museums, café culture and architecture. Whether you're a novice or an experienced artist, this retreat offers a nurturing environment free from judgment or the pressure to produce perfect masterpieces. It’s more about trusting the process, connecting with a like-minded group of supportive artists, and immersing yourself in the beauty of Paris….
Morning workshops will take place over a traditional French breakfast in a storied artist studio in the the heart of Montparnasse, featured in the photos above. A hub of creative exchange for young, international artists at the beginning of the 20th century, its bustling cafés, galleries and artist studios hosted the hotbed of intense social, cultural and artistic activity also known as the Ecole de Paris including artists like Picasso, Kandinsky and Matisse to name a few. Afternoons are a time to explore Paris and source inspirations in some of the best museums in the World and other sites otherwise inaccessible to tourists alone.
As the author of a forthcoming book about watercolor with Artisan Books, my teaching style is very much about facilitating learning while doing. I have taught private groups, art school students and international travelers drawing, illustration and watercolor since 2018. I like to meet students where they are with a generous approach to sharing life experiences and constructive encouragement. Since I found my own voice as an artist in Paris over the past 15 years, I have found a method of sourcing inspiration and translating it to my work. Why study watercolor in Paris if we can’t scour it for inspiration? I’ll also take you to some of my favorite places (galleries, museums, art stores, book stores) to fuel your creative process.
Paris awaits! Stay inspired and don’t drink the watercolor water. -jkw