This retreat is from June 1-6th, 2027. Instruction begins the afternoon of June 1st upon arrival. For the success of the experience, please be here the whole time.

The retreat is best suited to participants who already have some drawing/painting experience. Since we will be drawing and painting all day, it’s important that you have a strong desire to improve your craft.

This retreat is dedicated to learning watercolor techniques and visual storytelling in an intimate small group of 4 participants. It is hosted at the Relais de Camont, a gorgeous farmhouse which hosts artists in residency, owned by the celebrated cookbook author Kate Hill. You’ll have structured courses and down time to rest and work on your own artistic project.

The TGV (high speed train which is highly recommended) from Gare Paris Montparnasse to Gare d’Agen runs several times a day and is just a little over 3 hours. Bordeaux and Toulouse by train is 1.5 hour to Agen. I recommend arriving a few days early to Paris and then take the train down. 

Pick up and return to the Gare d’Agen (Agen train station) is provided; all other travel accommodations are not included in the retreat price.

Summer in Gascony is sunny and in the high 70s/low 80s. Bring comfortable summer clothes and walking shoes.

I take great pride in providing the most authentic and curated experience. This includes the organization of a seamless week of exclusive access Gascony,  thoughtful work sessions, top quality art supplies, careful selection of food and drink and the best that France has to offer. Having authored and coauthored books on Paris and watercolor, I’m an expert in my field and thrilled to share everything I know with you.

The retreat will be confirmed when a minimum of 3 guests have been reserved. In the case that the retreat is not confirmed, you will receive a reimbursement in full for your reservation fee. Also note, participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.

If you’re active and can travel with ease, this retreat is for you. All bedrooms are on upper floors with 1 or 2 flights of stairs. We will also do a good amount of walking.

50% of the retreat fee must be paid to book your spot via Wise or bank transfer.  The rest of the balance is due 60 days before the retreat. You will be notified when the second half is due. 

All bookings are non refundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. Travel insurance is strongly encouraged. I recommend World Nomads Insurance.You may purchase insurance at any time after we confirm your payment has been processed, but to ensure coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, it must be purchased prior to or within 24 hours of your payment.

If you decide to cancel after the deposit is paid, I can refund the deposit if you have someone to take your space, in which case a 200€ restocking fee, which covers banking fees, will be deducted from the refund, but you will not be liable for the balance.

 In the case of illness, accidents, travel delays or acts of god, I will not be able to refund your payment.  

I appreciate your understanding to assure the best possible experience for everyone involved. Yes. 1500 euros will be paid upon booking to reserve. The second half will be paid upon arrival in Camont.

My teaching style is very much about facilitating learning while doing. I have taught private groups, art school students and international travelers drawing, illustration and watercolor since 2018. I like to meet students where they are with a generous approach to sharing life experiences and constructive encouragement.

Yes, I host The Paris Watercolor Retreat twice a year, but Kate Hill of the Relais de Camont kindly asked if I would be interested in hosting another at her home in Gascony. So I said yes! This one is cozier and more nature-forward.

Depending on what country you’re traveling from, be sure to research independently before booking your trip.

No, enjoy a comfortable large private bedroom/studio with an en-suite bathroom and new in 2027—air-conditioning!

A local chef will prepare everything on-site. Please communicate any dietary needs to Jessie upon booking.

Yes, European summers are getting hotter and hotter. However June in Gascony is much more moderate temperature wise than Paris. Think sunny skies and weather in the 70s. And all rooms have air conditioning.

We will begin our day with a freshly prepared breakfast. The day will begin with a masterclass or painting demo, followed by a freshly prepared light lunch. The afternoons will include another watercolor class and free time to work on your own projects or rest. Dinners will be shared around giant country table, including fabulous local wine.

The history of Camont as a Gascon farm begins in 1724 but her current story began in 1989 when Kate Hill, chef and barge captain, was introduced to the quiet country property in ruin as a homeport for her antique 85-foot Dutch canal barge. She restored the property and opened its doors to visitors and friends—many of them journalists, photographers, and chefs. It’s now a creative residency hosting international artists and writers who need a sacred place to create.

No, I booked out the house for the retreat. Kate lives in the house and you’ll see her from time to time and there will be a chef on-site preparing our meals.

Do you love drawing and painting but don’t know how to take your work further? Has life overwhelmed you with everything but your art practice? Wanna spend a sacred moment getting better in a beautiful, encouraging environment? This is for you. Everything will be taken care of so you can just paint, rest and think deeply about your next creative steps.

Yes, World Nomads insurance