APAA Pastel Workshop - and a Painting Retreat

Look closely to see the student at the bottom!

This past Saturday I taught a one-day plein air pastel workshop for the Arizona Pastel Artists Association.  One of the problems with large plein air workshops is finding adequate backup space.  Even if the weather is predicted to be perfect, the forecasts themselves aren't necessarily perfect.  So, you need a backup space.  This space is also handy for lectures and critiques.  We found a great space at Crescent Moon Day Use Area, right under the feet of Catheral Rock.  We had our very own group picnic shelter and restrooms.

For this day, they weren't forecasting perfect weather.  In fact, they were predicting clouds and showers.  The morning started somewhat ominous.  As I drove toward Sedona, I saw heavy-bellied clouds dropping showers over Bear Mountain and the Mogollon Rim.  But we ended up having a great day.  The sun broke out and shed a warm light on Cathedral Rock.  Beautiful, puffy clouds ornamented the blue sky.  We got some really nice paintings out of the day.

One of my demos, a 5x7

I want to announce a special painting retreat for the week of March 26th.  This program is only for intermediate to advanced painters or professionals. Participants are expected to be comfortable with painting outdoors and their chosen medium. Painters may work in any medium, but I'll be working in oil or pastel.

For the retreat, group lodging is included that has cooking facilities so participants may make their own meals. Artists are expected to stay at the lodging to ensure an "immersion" experience in which painting is talked about in casual conversation, and impromptu demonstrations, outings or group critiques may result.

This is not a workshop with formal instruction, but I'll demonstrate daily and offer end-of-the-day critiques. I'll also guide you to some of Sedona's prime painting spots.

Price is $1000, which includes six nights lodging (arrive Sunday, depart Saturday).  Food is not included, but we'll have a kitchen.  The retreat is limited to four participants.  (Spouses and non-painting partners may be included, depending on the lodging.)  If you're interested, please let me know right away.  I need to have four committed by Thanksgiving in order to secure space.  I hope you'll join us!