Workshops & Retreats

Online Workshops 2026


Creating atmospheric perspective in landscape painting

SOLD OUT

Date: March 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th, 2026 (4 Fridays) 

Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (PDT) 

Location: Online via Zoom

This 4-week acrylic landscape workshop introduces students to the core principles of atmospheric perspective. Participants learn how colour, value, edges, and composition create a sense of depth, and they practice applying these concepts through demonstrations, exercises, thumbnails, block-ins, and a final landscape painting. Each week builds progressively—from understanding the science behind atmospheric perspective, to designing compositions with depth, to applying layering techniques, and finally refining a cohesive, atmospheric landscape. 

For more information, visit Atmospheric Perspective


Retreats 2026


Capturing Italy in Textured Acrylics

25th September – 2nd October 2026

2 SPOTS LEFT

Join renowned artist Samantha Williams-Chapelsky for a captivating textured semi-abstract plein air workshop in the breathtaking landscapes of Italy.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Italian countryside while learning innovative techniques to create vibrant, textured works of art.

Perfect for artists of all levels, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore semi-abstract expression through Samantha’s expert guidance, all while drawing inspiration from Italy’s rich scenery and culture.

Included in price:

• All tuition fees 

•  7 nights accommodation in luxury  air-conditioned, en-suite rooms

•  All meals including breakfast, buffet lunch and a choice of up to 4 courses from our daily changing gourmet evening menu

• A ‘pizza-giro’ evening at a local trattoria within a few minutes walk of the hotel

• Delicious local wine with lunch and evening meal

• Private group transfers to and from either Ancona airport or Pedaso (station or bus stop)

• 5 days painting tuition including demonstrations and one-to-one advice and guidance

• of which 3 days’ excursions to specially selected stunning locations

• Private transfers to and from painting locations 

• Hands-on pasta making masterclass with three generations of the same family – Nonna, her son and her granddaughter – who will all teach you how to make tagliatelle and ravioli from scratch

• One Free day with the option to take an excursion to the beautiful town of either Ascoli Piceno or Fermo – to be decided nearer the time (lunch not included)

• Unlimited use of air-conditioned studio

Don’t miss this unforgettable artistic experience!

For details, visit Hotel Leone


Retreats 2027


Gouache Sketchbook Retreat

Perigord Retreats, France

May 3 – 12, 2027

Join artist Samantha Williams-Chapelsky for an unforgettable nine-day gouache sketchbook retreat in the breathtaking Dordogne region of France. Immerse yourself in a world of color, creativity, and inspiration as you explore the fundamentals of color mixing with gouache and learn expressive application techniques using mixed materials such as wax pastels, stamps, and fine line pens.

For more information, visit Perigord Retreats

Capturing the coast of Ireland in textured acrylics

Plein Air Retreat

Mulranny, Ireland

August 27- September 3, 2027

Set in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, Essence of Mulranny Studios provides a sanctuary for creativity—where the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast becomes both backdrop and inspiration. Surrounded by stone walls, sea air, and the deep-rooted myths of the land, you’ll find the perfect setting to truly immerse yourself in your work and your growth.

Join me for a plein air and sketchbook retreat where we will capture the spectacular coats of Ireland! This 8 day session includes your transportation during the retreat, accomodations, meals and a stunning studio space with views of Ireland.

Find the details at Ireland Retreat!