Last weekend I had the pleasure of teaching a four-day botanical and nature sketching retreat at The Ashokan Center in the Catskill Mountains. Hosted by Draw Botanical, it was a joy to work alongside the amazingly accomplished Wendy Hollender, Lara Call Gastinger, Giacomina Ferrillo, Vern Fannin, and nearly 70 participants. I started this page during a session I led on “Sketching on the Go.” It was late afternoon and the setting sun’s still warm light cast its last glow over fields and woods. But really, anytime I get an hour to sketch outside in the company of other artists is golden.

These types of multiday workshops offer so much: the joy of making art with people who share your passion; the opportunity to be immersed in sketching and painting; and extended time to focus and learn in a supportive atmosphere. Plus, great food and inspiring settings.

Next year, I’ll be leading just two longer in-person workshops. I invite you to join me and experience the golden gift of time doing something you love.

June 3-8, 2026: SKETCHING THE NATURE OF PLACE at Sofia in Monsaraz, Portugal
Discover Portugal with me as we delve into ways to capture landscapes, plants, and wildlife, as well as food and culture. You’ll come away with a journal that reflects this unique setting and your experiences, as well as new ideas and techniques to use at home or on your next trip. If you’d like to come along, please don’t delay signing up. We’d like to confirm the class in the coming weeks and need to have seven or eight registered to do so.

July 20-24, 2026: DRAWN TO NATURE at Madeline Island School of the Arts, Wisconsin
This workshop takes place on beautiful Madeline Island, one of the Apostle Islands located on Lake Superior. The workshop will focus on multiple approaches to sketching and painting nature-related subjects in your sketchbook as we explore the island’s birds and wildlife, gardens, fields, Northern forests, and waterways. Registration is open and all skill levels are welcome.