Kelli Folsom Retreat 2027

19 – 28 September 2027

10‑Day Painting Retreat | 8 Days of Instruction | September 19–28, 2027

About the Workshop
Step into the golden September light of the Périgord countryside and experience painting as an act of presence, beauty, and discovery. In this 10‑day retreat, we’ll explore the transformative power of oil painting, focusing on expressive paint quality, vibrant color, and the magic of capturing fleeting light effects and glow. Through a combination of plein‑air painting in the gardens, orchards, and villages of Périgord and studio work, you’ll develop your ability to translate what you see — and feel — into luminous, expressive paintings.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced painter, this retreat invites you to awaken your artistic voice, reconnect with your creativity, and rediscover the joy of painting in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Daily painting sessions

Delicious Homemade Dinners

Daily Excursions

To Beautiful Locations

What You’ll Experience

Plein‑air Painting: Explore the landscapes, gardens, and historic villages, learning to capture the subtleties of light, color, and atmosphere in the moment in spontaneous small studies.
Studio Work: Refine your compositions and bring together studies and sketches into polished oil paintings if desired.
Expressive Techniques: Focus on dynamic brushwork, color harmony, and creating paintings that glow with life and light.
Immersive Inspiration: Enjoy the beauty of the Périgord region, from rolling hills and vineyards to charming architecture, all while soaking in the incredible French light.
Supportive Environment: Individual guidance and encouragement to help you develop confidence in your artistic voice.

Who This Retreat is For

Beginners and seasoned artists alike who want to explore oil painting in a deeply inspiring setting.
Artists who wish to strengthen their ability to capture light, color, and atmosphere.
Anyone seeking an immersive creative experience in the French countryside, surrounded by beauty, inspiration, and camaraderie.

Included

9 nights of retreat lodging, meals, and local excursions (room and board provided by Perigord Retreats).
8 days of guided oil painting instruction, plein-air sessions, and studio work.
Visits to local villages, gardens, and scenic locations to inspire and inform your painting.

Takeaways

Completed paintings that capture the unique light and beauty of Périgord.
Enhanced ability to work expressively with oils, color, and light.
Renewed creative confidence and the tools to continue your artistic exploration long after the retreat ends.

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