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About this trip
Embracing Chaos - Techniques in Abstraction and Figurative Work
Do you have moments of complete frustration with your work? We all do. In this course Melinda will help you to embrace those moments and learn to work with the idea of Chaos and ‘The Uglies’ in your paintings for as long as possible in order to achieve rich work with history and lasting interest. Are you looking for more personal expression? Additionally, we will look at setting Creative and Conceptual Intentions in order to create meaningful, individual work.
We will focus on the importance of contrast in our work by looking at the Elements of Design which will give you concrete ideas in abstraction that will help with your decision making when creating abstract work. These Elements, mixed with several Approaches to Figurative Abstraction will spark your creativity and give you lots to work on going forward. Join Melinda Cootsona in this fast-paced workshop as we embrace chaos and make history together!
This workshop is for intermediate to advanced level students. Oil paint or Acrylic paint is acceptable. Oil painters may use cold wax medium and some cold wax techniques may be demonstrated, but this is not a cold wax specific course.
About Melinda Cootsona
I love to paint and to inspire others to create.
I am an artist now living in the beautiful Coachella Valley of Southern California. I was born and raised in Silicon Valley and am a California girl through and through. Inspired by the California landscape, colors, and light, I look to capture it’s essence in much of my work.
Thick, gooey oil paint is my medium, and my work is created by applying layers of shapes, colors, and textures of paint to the canvas over a period of days and weeks. I also now incorporate cold wax medium into much of my work to create rich history, texture and transparency.
I have been teaching painting to students of all levels for over 20 years. My goal is always to inspire students to find their own voice in their work, and to build confidence in their creative process. This world needs more creative people and my goal is to help you find your creative potential whether you are a beginning, “returning,” or experienced artist.
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What’s included
- Workshop Tuition
- Guest RoomsGuest room amenities include Towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, hair dryers, in room coffeemaker, mini fridge, tv, internet, lap desks, yoga mats
- Welcome ReceptionLight appetizers and refreshments
- All Meals and SnacksIncludes 4 nights of dinner, lunch and breakfast, daily snack breaks, unlimited coffee, tea & seltzer
- Art SuppliesIf art supplies are included in the price of the retreat, it will show in the description.
What’s not included
- TransportationTaxis and rental cars available at airport. We may be able to pick you up at the airport or train station with prior arrangements.
- Optional ExcusionsSee below for fun and inspiring add-on excursions
- Art SuppliesYour instructor will reach out with details on needed materials and supplies. You can have your supplies shipped directly to us if you do not want to travel with them.
- Travel InsuranceAlthough we do not require trip insurance, we VERY HIGHLY recommend it. Here is a link for purchasing Trip Insurance where you can compare rates and coverage. https://www.travelinsurance.com/
Available Packages
Price is per person. Double Occupancy. You each have your own bed and your own closet for personal items And your own bathrobe. You share an en-suite bathroom
We assign all students to rooms based on giving everyone a great space. All double occupancy rooms are in the main property
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Single Room Retreat Fee $1950
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $215
TOTAL Retreat Fee $2165
If you want to save $100 by prepaying in full at time of registration please add code "save100" in the discount window at checkout.
A room all to myself but with a shared bathroom
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Single Room Retreat Fee $2500
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $275
TOTAL Retreat Fee with tax $2775
If you want to save $100 by prepaying in full at time of registration please add code "save100" in the discount window at checkout.
A room all to myself with my own private en-suite bathroom and balcony
You can double your fun by adding a participating artist friend for an additional $1950 plus Tax. Just choose Participating Artist Friend below.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
private Room Retreat Fee $2950
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $330
TOTAL Retreat Fee $3280
If you want to save $100 by prepaying in full at time of registration please add code "save100" in the discount window at checkout.
Willow I Our Super Cute Glamping Camper
We now have a super cute glamping camper!
It is a cozy 25 feet off-grid with a queen size bed, dinette with comfy cushions,
A very spacious bathroom for a cozy camper (it even has a shower!)
It sits in the quiet back area of our property with views of majestic willow trees.
We are dressing it up in the same cozy, beautiful, and colorful linen bedding that we have in our guest rooms... it will be a beautiful getaway!
This cozy abode is meant for one person. Private space/Private bath.
Our other rooms in the main house are $2900 but our glampers are only $2500 plus tax
(You are welcome to share with a friend if you wish for an additional fee - just use the add-on option below)
Out your door is a fancy awning with patio lights and comfy chairs to enjoy the evening breezes.
This fee INCLUDES the State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Single Room Retreat Fee $2500
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $275
TOTAL Retreat Fee with tax $2775
For participants who don't need overnight lodging. Price is per person and includes lunch only. Doesn't include 24/7 after hours studio use after end of workshop.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 6.45%.
Here is the breakdown:
Day Student Retreat Fee $975
Accommodation/Sales Tax 6.45 $63
TOTAL Retreat Fee $1038
There are no prepay discounts for the Day Student rate
Do you have a loved one who you want to join you but WILL NOT be taking any classes? Use this add-on. This fee includes everything that the full rate includes EXCEPT for the classroom time.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Extra Guest $1200
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $132
TOTAL Retreat Fee $1332
There are no pre-pay discounts for this choice
Do you have a friend that will be participating in class that you want to share your room with?
Use this add-on. You can only use this add-on if you purchased a private room with bath.
This fee includes everything that the full rate includes
This fee includes State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Extra Participating Artist Friend $1950
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $214
TOTAL Retreat Fee $2164
There are no pre-pay discounts for this choice
Available options
Our room rates are normally $350-$400, so this is a fantastic opportunity to stay extra nights
Our room rates are normally $350-$400, so this is a fantastic opportunity to stay extra nights
Itinerary
5pm Welcome Reception - meet your fellow students reception with appetizers and refreshments.
Room check ins begin at 3pm