Phoenix Watercolor Retreat – March 2025

Dates: 2 to 7th March, 2025

Accommodation:

8 bedroom Mansion w/ Pool | Spa | Games & More

For this retreat, we’ve reserved a beautiful private house where the group will stay together, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that fosters creativity and connection. The house features spacious accommodations, ample bedrooms, entertainment options, and a private pool/spa where you can unwind after a day of painting and exploring.

You’ll be charmed by our spectacular 8-bedroom VRBO nestled in the vibrant city of Mesa, Arizona! Perfectly situated to explore all the wonders of the Southwest, this expansive retreat offers a luxurious and unforgettable stay.

Entertainment options abound with something for everyone to enjoy. Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pool, unwind in the soothing spa, or challenge your friends to a game of billiards or ping pong in either of the two entertainment rooms. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the mini-golf and the large variety of outdoor games available. As the evening falls, we’ll fire up the grill for a barbecue feast on the expansive patio, then gather around the fire pit for stories under the starlit sky. With ample outdoor seating and lush landscaping, the backyard oasis is the perfect setting for relaxation and fun. Conveniently located near Mesa’s attractions, restaurants, and shops, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience.

What to Expect:

• Five Nights Accommodations: pricing based on single occupancy.
  • $500 fee deduction will be given to those sharing a bedroom. This may refer to friends or strangers sharing a bunk room, or spouses/partners sharing a bed in a private room.
  • $500 deduction given for non-participating spouses/partners.
• Meals: Start your day with a continental breakfast, enjoy lunch on the go, and come together in the evening for delicious meals in a gorgeous backyard setting, sharing stories and laughter with fellow artists. Our last day will include dinner out at your expense. Liquor can be acquired by you at your expense from a shop next door.
• Local transportation: large van rental for 3 days’ excursions. Other trips, including transportation to/from airport will be at your expense.
• Four Days’ Painting Instruction: Receive personalized guidance and feedback from a seasoned watercolour artist, whether you’re looking to refine your technique or simply enjoy the process of painting in a supportive group setting. We’ll be focusing on line&wash techniques: learning to simplify our subject, inking selectively, and painting strategically.

Activities & Highlights:

• Scenic Tour of Tortilla Flat & Canyon Lake: Just northeast of Phoenix, this historic stagecoach stop and breathtaking landscape offers endless inspiration for your painting. Capture the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert, from the shimmering waters of Canyon Lake to the charming character of Tortilla Flat.
• Exploring Old Scottsdale: Stroll through the quaint streets of Old Scottsdale, known for its historic architecture, vibrant art galleries, and eclectic shops. This area is perfect for capturing the energy and character of the Southwest in your urban sketches. We’ll snap photos to bring back to the house, where we’ll translate these vibrant scenes into watercolor masterpieces.
• Dobbins Lookout: Just a few miles from downtown Phoenix, Dobbins Lookout takes you above the hustle and bustle of the city for a peaceful view from above.
  A compass post overlooking the Valley points to landmarks, mountain ranges, farmlands, cities and suburbs that have grown up around the park. Dobbins Lookout provides a platform to contemplate what a treasure South Mountain is to the greater Phoenix community.

Supplies:

The following items will be needed for our retreat. You can bring them from home or purchase items from an art supply store in Phoenix on our first day. Click here to view the supply list.

Costs:

$2400 CAD total ($500 deduction for shared bunkroom or shared bed in private room; $500 deduction for non-participating attendee)

First instalment: $800 CAD due at registration
Second instalment: $800 CAD due Jan 15
Third instalment: $800 CAD due Feb 15

*Please note: late payments will be charged an additional 5% of each instalment ($40).

Cancellation Policy:

Full refund before Jan 1
Partial refund (50%) until Feb 14
No refund Feb 15 or later.

* Please see our detailed Policies & Terms of Service for further information