Cathy Nichols Workshop 2026

Cathy Nichols is coming back to Perigord Retreats for her fourth workshop & the second leg of a back to back  from the 8th June – 17th July 2026.

This 10-day all-inclusive creative journey will be in the Dordogne and Lot regions! A place full of exquisite beauty, fascinating history & endless inspiration!

Come create with me in France!

Plein Air & Studio Painting

Delicious Homemade Dinners

Daily Excursions

To Beautiful Locations

Joie de Blooms – with Cathy Nichols

Join Cathy as she leads you through the creation of joyful floral artworks, inspired by the picturesque landscapes and vibrant flowers of the French countryside. Cathy’s warm and engaging teaching style will help you explore layered mixed media painting techniques, expressive color theory, and your own creative flair.

You’ll paint beautiful works of art as you weave words, drawings, flowers, and ephemera from your trip into uniquely expressive pieces. Each session is designed to  enhance your creativity, while allowing the natural beauty of Perigord to inspire your colorful painted stories. Cathy will show you not only how to paint flowers, but how to incorporate the colors and shapes of rolling hills, lush gardens and historic French estates into artwork that is uniquely yours. 

Not only will you complete 2-3 finished paintings, but you’ll also learn techniques that form the expressive backbone of your artwork. During the retreat, you’ll explore the art of botanical monoprinting, free-painting, and abstract mark-making that underpin the more structured elements of your paintings, such as flowers and landscapes. At the end of our time together, even beginning artists will feel like ‘art alchemists’ who surprise themselves with their one-of-a-kind beautiful artwork.

Some Excursion Locations

Excursions may include but are not limited to the following

Rocamadour

Part of the Camino Trail. Historical & religious significance. Breathtaking village perched on a cliff.

Sarlat

One of the most well preserved medieval towns in France. Amazing market with local produce.

Beynac Castle

Home of Richard the Lionheart, perfect for a picnic by the river and plein air painting in the shade.

Saint Cirq Lapopie

One of the most beautiful villages in France. Incredibly picturesque. Perfect for shopping & painting.

Our Previous Workshops
ardith Goodwin's group drinking Cahors and Bergerac wine at lunch

 Retreat Highlights:

  • Intensive mixed media painting sessions led by Cathy Nichols

  • Personal attention and tailored feedback to help you refine your art

  • Opportunities to ask art business questions in an informal setting

  • Delicious gourmet French food 

  • Exploration of the Perigord area, including Unesco World Heritage sites

  • Free time for personal exploration and relaxation in the French countryside

  • Time for connection, socializing and sharing your beautiful artwork

Fill out the form below for pricing and more information relating to the workshop.