We all know the temptation to buy things instead of burrowing into the work of getting better at our craft. Sometimes, the last thing you need is more stuff, but an experience that shatters your ‘business as usual’ habits. That might mean new skills for the beginner, new techniques for the advanced artist, or—for anyone—the therapeutic experience of painting in one of America’s great beauty spots.
What’s in it for you?
I’ve been teaching painting workshops forever, and I can promise you’ll take away one or all of the following:
- New techniques:
- A blossoming of your creative process;
- A good dollop of color and design theory;
- Keener observational skills;
- New friends;
- The ability to critique your own work;
- Some beautiful finished work.
My painting workshops have been winnowed down recently to include those I absolutely love, both in the teaching and the place. Let me tell you what I treasure about each one:
Canyon Color for the Painter, Sedona, AZ
In March, I’m really, really sick of snow. This is an opportunity for my friends and me to head west and concentrate on a completely different landscape. This is a color-theory based workshop that turns the green-blue of the east coast on its head. And the Sedona Arts Center is a fabulous support center. March 10-14, 2025.
Advanced Plein Air Painting, Rockport, ME
I love teaching students of all levels, but this is a class designed for professional-level students to work on more complex concepts in painting. These include directing the viewer’s eye, narrative flow, serious drawing, and more. (Requires a portfolio or permission, and please don’t be offended if I suggest you take a different workshop first. It’s not about ability; it’s whether you have the process down.) July 7-11, 2025.
Sea and Sky at Acadia National Park
This is a student favorite and a personal favorite. It’s in one of the most beautiful, less-traveled parts of Acadia National Park: the Schoodic Peninsula. It’s my longest running workshop and all levels of experience seem to enjoy it. The wilderness setting seems to create a special camaraderie among students. Enjoy all-inclusive accommodation or join us as a commuter. August 3-8, 2025.
Find Your Authentic Voice in Plein Air, Berkshires, MA
I fell in love with the Berkshires when my oldest daughter lived in Pittsfield, MA. She’s moved on, but it continues to enchant me with its historic little towns, rolling hills, and working farms. I love the verdant landscape and especially the day we get to spend at the amazing Hancock Shaker Village. All levels are welcome. August 11-15, 2025.
Immersive In-Person Fall Workshop, Rockport, ME
This is a deep dive into all the special places I get to paint here in midcoast Maine. We cap it with a private guided tour in the Farnsworth Art Museum that’s tailored to my students. It’s easy to get a hotel room in this area, it’s the height of fall color, and all levels are welcome. October 6-10, 2025.
Reserve your spot now for a workshop in 2025:
- Canyon Color for the Painter, Sedona, AZ, March 10-14, 2025
- Advanced Plein Air Painting, Rockport, ME, July 7-11, 2025.
- Sea and Sky at Acadia National Park, August 3-8, 2025.
- Find Your Authentic Voice in Plein Air, Berkshires, MA, August 11-15, 2025.
- Immersive In-Person Fall Workshop, Rockport, ME, October 6-10, 2025.