Art + Travel = Incredible Retreats. Want to join me?

I’m beyond excited for this year’s art retreats—time to create, connect, and be inspired in the most beautiful places. It’s truly my favorite way to teach and share art.

But these retreats aren’t just about making art (though there will be plenty of that!). They’re about taking time for yourself, being creative, and experiencing the magic that happens when art and travel come together.

The very first art retreat I ever attended was in 2013 in Petaluma, CA, called Call of the Wild Soul, organized by Erin Faith Allen. I had signed up months before after taking an online art journaling class with Teesha Moore and Jane Davenport. When Teesha emailed saying she’d be teaching in person at this retreat later in the year, something inside me said, “Sign up!”

At the time, I was raising 3 young boys, working in corporate, and not really thinking much about art—other than knowing how much I loved Teesha’s class and the idea of taking three days just for myself!

I went solo—which felt like a big deal. I was nervous, not really sure what to expect. But on the first night, I sat next to a woman named Dee—we both had on Ugg boots and immediately laughed, realizing we must both be from Santa Cruz. That simple connection turned into a friendship that’s still going strong today.

Looking back, it’s crazy to think about the artists I learned from that weekend. I had to choose teachers based on a simple email with samples of their work, not knowing who they were in the art world.

My picks? Alena Hennessy, Tracy Verdugo, and Teesha Moore. I had no idea that just a few years later, I’d be stepping into the art world myself.

And that retreat? It changed everything.

Since then, I’ve made it a priority to attend an in-person art retreat every year (except for 2020, of course!). And this fall, I’ll be heading to Portugal for another one. Because nothing fills me up with creativity, inspiration, and connection more than being in a space with other artists, creating together.

That’s exactly why I LOVE hosting my own retreats—to create that same experience for others. If you’ve ever felt that pull to go on one, this might be your sign.

Leaping for Joy all over the South of France - this is how you'll feel during the retreats!

South of France Art Retreat – [Just 3 Spots Left] September '25 This one is pure magic. Ten days in the French countryside, painting in a 24/7 art studio [yes, we were sipping rose and working in our journals on a few nights last year!], exploring medieval villages, and enjoying farm-to-table meals. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the charm of France while filling your sketchbook with inspiration, this is your chance.

Land + Sea Art Retreat in Santa Cruz, CA, June + August '25 I love hosting these retreats at my home on the coastal bluffs of California. We’ll spend time painting, exploring mixed media techniques, and taking inspiration from the sea and land around us. It’s a weekend filled with creativity, relaxation, and connection.

Why Join an Art Retreat?

Because you deserve time just for YOU.
Because traveling with art will fill you with inspiration.
Because there’s nothing like making art in a gorgeous setting surrounded by creative new friends!

If this is calling to you, I’d love for you to join me! No experience or art background needed—just a love for creativity and adventure.

Find your perfect retreat + for more information: Land + Sea Retreat (spots left in June & August - May is full) → Link

South of France Retreat → Link