Samantha Williams-Chapelsky Retreat 2027

Join artist Samantha Williams-Chapelsky for an unforgettable nine-day gouache sketchbook retreat in the breathtaking Dordogne region of France. Immerse yourself in a world of color, creativity, and inspiration as you explore the fundamentals of color mixing with gouache and learn expressive application techniques using mixed materials such as wax pastels, stamps, and fine line pens.

Plein Air & Studio Painting

Delicious Homemade Dinners

Daily Excursions

To Beautiful Locations

Your Time With Sam

Throughout the retreat, Samantha will guide you in developing your own visual language, helping you capture the charm and atmosphere of the French countryside — from rolling hills and medieval villages to sunlit markets and tranquil river scenes. Each day will blend hands-on instruction, guided plein air sketching, and personal exploration, culminating in the creation of a unique, hand-crafted sketchbook filled with memories, textures, and vibrant color studies.

All top-of-the-line art supplies are provided, including a premium sketchbook, professional-grade gouache paints, quality brushes, and fine art pens — everything you need to dive into the experience with confidence and ease.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to discover gouache for the first time or an experienced artist seeking new inspiration, this retreat offers the perfect balance of art, travel, and creative rejuvenation.

Come paint, explore, and create your own story in the heart of France!

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.