Ming Franz & Dr Yang Retreat 2026
I’m teaming up with Katel and Harrison at Perigord Retreats to host my second retreat in this region in 2026.
Join me for 9 nights of touring the most beautiful villages and scenes in this area of France.
Plein Air & Studio Painting
Delicious Homemade Dinners
Daily Excursions
To Beautiful Locations
‘Splash Ink with Watercolor’
Are you ready to embark on an innovative and captivating artistic journey that blends Eastern and Western styles, guided by award-winning artist Ming Franz?
“Splash Ink with Watercolor” offers an extraordinary experience that revitalizes a traditional Chinese painting technique known as PoMo, all through a vibrant Western lens. Ming traces the evolution of this technique, showcasing artists from the 8th-century Tang dynasty to the bold movements of 1960s abstract expressionism, and into the contemporary realm where ink and color flow freely. Her detailed accounts of materials and methods not only educate but also empower you to unleash your inner artist, encouraging experimentation and playfulness in your creative endeavors.
By skillfully blending rich black Chinese ink with three primary watercolors on Ma (mulberry paper), you can create breathtaking images that capture the spirit of your artistic moment.
In addition, a Professor Chelsea Yang from the National University of Arts in Taiwan will join Ming to offer a couple of mineral and watercolor painting lessons. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating opportunity to join Ming for an amazing adventure!
Ming Franz, born in Taiwan, received her foundational art training there before continuing her journey in the United States. To discover more about her inspiring work, visit her website: www.mingfranzstudio.com. Don’t miss the chance to explore this dynamic art form and awaken your creative potential!
A Day with Us Looks Like This…
Your day begins with a peaceful breakfast of freshly baked French pastries, homemade yoghurt, and seasonal fruit—best enjoyed in the sunlit conservatory as the day gently unfolds.
Around 9 am, we set off—early enough to enjoy our destinations while they’re still quiet, with the morning light casting everything in a perfect glow.
Spend your morning soaking up the atmosphere of a new place: wander through charming side streets, discover hidden corners, or settle into a quiet spot to sketch and take it all in. When you’re ready for lunch, a beautiful spread awaits—think crisp salads, savoury quiches, homemade cookies, and a glass (or two) of wine, served picnic-style in the shade.
Afternoons are for creativity and rest. Back at the studio, you’ll have dedicated time to paint, unwind by the pool, take a nap, read, sunbathe, or simply enjoy good conversation in a quiet corner.
Evenings are a highlight: a delicious, three-course meal made with local ingredients, prepared by Katel—whose cooking alone is worth the trip. With wine flowing and good company around the table, it’s a chance to relax and connect.
After dinner, the time is yours. Watch the sunset, return to the studio for more painting, take a dip in the hot tub, or explore the nearby paths under the stars.
Our retreats are designed to be flexible, inspiring, and restorative—so you can get exactly what you need out of your time with us.
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.
Les Jardins d'eau
Monet-style water gardens spread over several acres, complete with lots of willow trees and a beautiful bridge.
