Dave Santillanes Workshop and Retreat in Provence

Chateau near Avignon, Oct 1 – 9, 2023

You are invited to join us for a 9-Day workshop with Dave Santillanes, one of today’s most accomplished plein-air artists.  The program offers a perfect combination of learning and cultural immersion in the south of France. This is a rare opportunity to learn from Dave as he demos, makes paintings, helps you, explains the methods in a relaxed setting, and shares informative critiques. Dave’s attention and guidance throughout the workshop will give you useful experience in painting en plein air.

Like so many artists, Dave draws inspiration from Impressionism which of course, began in France and was carried across the Atlantic through the California impressionists. This trip to France will allow the artists to step in the footsteps of the artists who have painted in the area before such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gaugin, among others.

What to Expect at a Plein Air Retreat

The plein-air workshop is based in a beautiful chateau estate nestled between the Mediterranean and the Luberon. Your time will be spent painting alongside this accomplished instructor while immersing yourself in French life and enjoying what Provence has to offer. It is a rare opportunity to paint with Dave and other artists while spending nine idyllic days in the South of France, all the while surrounded by the natural beauty and bounty of Provence.

Don’t worry, a complete materials sheet will be sent to you, as well as tips and tricks for traveling with your supplies. The itinerary allows you to paint on the estate, in nearby fields as well as venturing to the secluded villages and vineyards of Provence. You also visit St Rémy where Van Gogh lived. And yes, we will paint where he painted. We will visit the stunning audio-visual extravaganza at Les Baux known as Les Carrières de Lumières (Quarry of Light). Evenings are reserved for socializing and discussing all things art as we wine and dine in the grand salon or eat outdoors.

Our workshops are legendary for the camaraderie of wonderful guests and crew. Paint as much as you want! We arrange for several side trips so that we can get to know one another and discover Provence. We visit markets, hilltop villages and vineyards for wine tasting making the experience ideal for those who want to bring their non-painting partners. These are but to name a few itinerary destinations. More than this, we are following a tradition of artists who travel to live and paint together and the enrichment that comes from the experience. 

“Abundance of Spring” by Dave Santillanes