Class Listings

This course reviews and builds on Intermediate Watercolor techniques. Using a live plant and/or reference photographs of their choice, students will create a small series of paintings of a native North Carolina plant.

Colored pencil is a next step in advancing from drawing to painting, and introduces the full array of fine art pigments. This course is a hands-on introduction to commonly used materials and techniques such as layering, blending, burnishing and tonal gradation. 

Through ink drawing in a dedicated sketchbook, small elements of essential botany up to the basic notions of botanical watercolour, we will portray different seasonal subjects. Wild flora from the Pyrenees, flowers, leaves and seeds from the Clos Mirabel garden and vegetables from the kitchen garden to create a personal “cabinet” of botanical treasures.

This workshop is designed not only to provide basic technical notions and the main tools of botanical art, but also to approach various botanical subjects. We will learn how to keep a sketchbook and make it a study tool through the observation of Nature and the practice of drawing.

We will learn to use the ink pen with specific exercises, shadows, colour and how to compose pages. We will tackle the botanical watercolour technique by mixing colours, organizing the palette and studying the control of the brushstroke. Thus, over the course of the week, we will create a composition with various botanical subjects different in species, shape and colour, respecting their character and scientific data. Our personal collection of treasures, drawn and painted.

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/botanical-painting-workshop-france-giacomina-ferrillo

This multi-day botanical ink-making workshop invites participants to explore plants as both subject and material, grounding artistic practice in observation, ecology, and place. Drawing from my teaching practice in Los Angeles, the workshop introduces participants to inks made from plants collected in Omega Institute that demonstrate the rich colors hidden within everyday botanical sources.

We begin by discussing how plant materials are gathered and prepared, and how each plant carries its own history, chemistry, and relationship to the landscape. I share how I use these same inks in my own practice to create careful botanical studies, embracing the quiet variability and subtlety that plant-based inks offer.

As the workshop unfolds, the focus shifts to painting and observation. Participants use their handmade inks for botanical studies and contemplative plein air work in the natural landscape surrounding Omega. Working slowly and attentively encourages a deeper relationship with plants, color, and process. By the end of the workshop, students leave with finished studies, their own palette of botanical inks, and a deeper appreciation for sustainable, plant-based art materials.

Working primarily in ink and watercolor in a sketchbook/journal, you’ll learn techniques for recording the nature of place here, and wherever you choose to go next. Daily instruction in watercolor journaling and painting techniques will focus on building your artistic skills, as well as offer opportunities to practice and gain confidence with Jean’s guidance and support. The group will work together in a supportive environment and people at all levels of experience are welcome. Jean will work with you to grow your skills and leave you feeling inspired. https://sofiainmonsaraz.com/en/jeanmackay/

This three-week watercolor course offers a focused study on the textural surface of botanical specimens. How to articulating velvety foliage on lambs ear, dense hair on a flower and the radiating structure of cactus spines. Rather than relying on opaque correction, students will learn to build convincing texture through value control, negative painting, disciplined layering and several tools to use beyond the brush.

Through structured demonstration and guided practice, participants will refine their handling of water and pigment while strengthening their understanding of edge, contrast, and restraint. Particular attention will be given to maintaining luminosity while describing subtle hairs, matte surfaces, and sharp linear elements. Skills that are essential to achieving clarity and depth in representational botanical watercolor. Photographic references will be provided in advance, and students may also work from their own subjects that align with the course focus.

All classes are recorded for a flexible schedule. Register here:

https://lymeartassociation.org/online-class-botanical-defenses/

Learn to examine and capture the bulbous pitchers, patterns and tiny details of fascinating carnivorous plants. This class uses a step-by-step approach, with critiques and demonstrations to slowly build a finished painting. Working with live specimens we’ll begin with an accurate line drawing and tonal study to understand form and light source. This will be followed by a variety of watercolor techniques to bring the “wow” to your painting including building layers of rich color with wet washes, masking, glazing and dry brush.

Catherine will be returning to Atelier Clos Mirabel in June 2026 to deliver her week long Botanical Art Workshop.

Discover the fascinating world of Botanical Art, starting with a walk around the magnificent Clos Mirabel property to choose your subject.

A variety of plants will be in bloom including Roses, Hydrangeas, Iris, Lupin, Lilies and numerous fruits and vegetables growing in the Jardin Potager.

Catherine will introduce her 10 stages to successfully illustrate a subject. You will carefully observe, measure and draw your subject focusing on form, light and texture. After composing your illustration, we will discuss the properties of watercolours and transparent colour mixing. You will apply several layers from the base tea wash to the dry brush finishing touches, using proper lighting to make your subject come to life.

The course will include a PowerPoint presentation, numerous demonstrations and an exhibition on the last day.

Catherine will also show you how to create a Botanical Journal to document your experience at Clos Mirabel. This is a lovely way to capture a special moment in a magical place.

Students will work with graphite and watercolour. If you prefer, you can use coloured pencils. All levels of experience are welcome.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

atelier.clos-mirabel.com

At Ghost Ranch, Georgia O’Keeffe found inspiration in the desert around her. Flowers and animal bones were among her favorite subjects. Here is your chance to explore how the same subjects inspire YOU. Refine your realistic drawing skills with 5 days & 6 nights in residence at historic Casa del Sol, amid the spectacular landscape where O’Keeffe lived and painted. We will draw bones and blooms from life. Morning instruction with daily demos will cover drawing techniques in charcoal (for the bones) and colored pencil with watercolor (for the flowers). Afternoons will offer free time to continue working, or to rest, hike, or take a horseback ride. Evenings will include guided nature walks, stargazing, and camaraderie around a courtyard fire. Space will be limited to 9. Some drawing experience is helpful but not required. Join us!

This workshop is strictly for students of botany and other natural sciences keen to improve their scientific illustration skills. Just 6 places available to residents of the seven Carpathian Mountains countries.

Join botanical artist and experienced tutor, Mary Dillon, for an immersive botanical art retreat at Clos Mirabel, where you’ll explore the beauty of summer blooms and refine your artistic skills in a serene, stunning setting.

You will connect with fellow artists, discover new techniques, and let the vibrant surroundings inspire you. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to create, relax, and grow — all while surrounded by the enchanting landscapes of South West France.

Everything about being in Clos Mirabel is special. From the warmth of your welcome by the family and team at Clos Mirabel to your first view of the Pyrenees, your beautifully appointed accommodation and the most delicious variety of locally sourced foods, you know that this will be a week for you!

The spacious art studio is a haven for artists. Taking your inspiration from the plants in the garden and the countryside you’ll practice some observational drawing and mark making. Early in the week you will have an opportunity to travel towards the upper slopes of the Pyrenees to experience alpine plants in their natural habitat. After a gentle walk and some field sketching you will enjoy a simple lunch in a village auberge.

Back in the studio, Mary will guide you in exploring the nuances of colour through easy exercises to help you grow in confidence with how you choose and use colour. Exploring and practicing watercolour painting techniques in a simple but systematic way can be applied to painting any subject. Using controlled wet and damp techniques and finishing with dry techniques, you will work in layers to create a painting that is both true to science and true to your emotional connection with your plant subject. This week will be a week to rest well, eat well and to replenish your personal resources in the process of creating your botanical painting!

To find out more and book your place, visit:

atelier.clos-mirabel.com

Botanical Illustration is the centuries old art form of drawing plants for scientific documentation, educational information and/or aesthetic purposes. And graphite is the fundamental medium for botanical illustration drawings. Botanical Illustration I will include an overview of modern botanical illustration and its uses, as well as basic graphite skills for planning and finishing a botanical drawing in graphite.

This Zoom class offers the opportunity to become familiar with graphite techniques including graphite application, line drawing, toning, layering, and textures and composition. Each class session builds skill development and confidence through demonstrations, discussions, and exercises including the importance of plant observation.

A One-Piece Summer Study

In this focused 2-week workshop, we’ll explore how to thoughtfully compose butterflies and botanicals into a balanced, detailed watercolor painting. You’ll learn how to design your composition with intention, so your work feels cohesive, natural, and visually engaging.

In Week 1, we’ll focus on composition planning through small studies, learning how to place your butterfly, support it with florals, and create a sense of movement across the page.

In Week 2, we’ll bring everything together into a finished watercolor painting, focusing on color harmony, edge control, and guiding the viewer’s eye.

This class is ideal if you want to strengthen your understanding of composition and watercolor.

(Photo References will be provided).

• What Students Will Learn:
• How to compose a watercolor narrative using botanicals and a pollinator
• How to create color harmony within a painting
• How to design and complete a single finished piece with multiple visual elements

Classes will be Recorded Live for a flexible schedule.

Register Here:

https://lymeartassociation.org/class-composing-butterflies-botanicals-in-watercolor/

2-Week Course

In this beginner-friendly 2-week course, students will be introduced to the foundational techniques and observational skills used in botanical watercolor painting. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on exercises, we’ll explore how watercolor behaves on paper, how to build form through transparent layers, and how to approach botanical subjects with confidence and clarity.

Together, we’ll focus on the essential building blocks of watercolor including water control, color mixing, value structure, layering, and edge handling. Students will learn how subtle shifts in temperature, value, and softness can help create dimension and luminosity within petals, leaves, and other natural forms. Alongside technical instruction, we’ll also discuss strategies for

simplifying complex botanical subjects and strengthening observational skills.

What Students Will Learn:

• Watercolor materials and paper basics

• Water control and foundational wash techniques

• Color mixing for natural botanical subjects

• Understanding value and how it creates form

• Layering and glazing techniques for depth and luminosity

• Soft vs. crisp edge handling

• Observational strategies for painting flowers and foliage

• Approaching botanical subjects with greater confidence and structure

This course is ideal for beginners or anyone looking to strengthen their watercolor foundations through the study of plants, flowers, and natural forms in a supportive and approachable environment.

Register here:

https://lymeartassociation.org/online-class-beginning-botanical-wc/

Celebrate the beauty of the harvest season in this 3-week course focused on ink stippling and botanical illustration. Working on Dura-Lar film, we’ll explore apples, pears, and other orchard fruits at their peak, capturing their rounded forms, subtle imperfections, and natural character through careful observation and mark-making.

Using a slow, intentional stippling approach, you’ll learn how to build depth, texture, and dimension with ink alone. We’ll move beyond single studies to

thoughtfully composed arrangements, guiding you in creating balanced, engaging fruit illustrations that feel both structured and organic.

This course is ideal for anyone looking to deepen their drawing practice, refine their understanding of form, or explore the unique qualities of working on a smooth, non-absorbent surface.

(Photo References will be provided).

What You’ll Learn

Over the three weeks, students will:

• Develop convincing rounded form using value and dot density
• Learn to observe and render natural imperfections (blemishes, dimples, irregularities)
• Build confidence with ink stippling techniques on Dura-Lar film
• Understand how light interacts with smooth, curved surfaces
• Explore edge control and subtle transitions without relying on line
• Compose multiple fruits in a single illustration with balance and intention
• Create depth and separation between forms using value alone
• Gain a stronger foundation in slow, observational drawing practices

Live Recordings will be available for a flexible schedule.

We are delighted to welcome back Billy Showell to teach her second botanical art retreat from Atelier Clos Mirabel. Centred around ‘Autumn Finds’, in this workshop you will be painting found seeds, chestnuts, leaves and cones in all of the beautiful colours that the season has to offer. With Billy’s expert guidance, you will learn to lay out your chosen botanical findings in a range of stunning compositions, whilst also mastering the skills and techniques needed to paint a unique botanical portrait.

Billy Showell is an internationally known botanical painter, illustrator and tutor based in Kent in the UK. Her works are distinguishable by striking & fluid compositions, and she has won several botanical awards including a Gold medal from the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society. Billy has produced four best-selling botanical painting books, and runs The Billy Showell School of Botanical Art, nurturing talent in thousands of budding botanical painters.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/botanical-art-retreat-billy-showell-france

or email:

atelierclosmirabel@gmail.com 

At Ghost Ranch, Georgia O'Keeffe found inspiration in the high desert around her. Animal bones and blooming plants were among her favorite subjects. Here is your chance to explore how the same subjects inspire YOU. Remind you realistic drawing skills with 5 days & 6 nights in residence at historic Casa del Sol, amid the spectacular landscape where O'Keeffe lived and painted. We will draw bones and blooms from life. Morning instruction with daily demos will cover drawing techniques in charcoal (for the bones) and colored pencil with watercolor (for the flowers. Afternoons will offer free time to continue working, or to rest, hike, or take a horseback ride. Evenings will include guided nature walks, stargazing, and camaraderie around a courtyard fire. Space will be limited to 9. All levels welcome; some drawing experience helpful. Join us!

Come and explore the land of the colossal with Úrsula Romero and learn how to paint larger than life. Focusing on leaves, this workshop will explore the drama that can be created through thoughtful lighting and clever glazing.

You will have the exciting opportunity to learn how to capture the dramatic autumnal colours of leaves in an idyllic setting. From yellowing deciduous leaves to luscious evergreens; the countryside and gardens that surround Atelier Clos Mirabel are abundant.

This course will start with a short talk about leaves – their taxonomy, physiology and how paint them larger than life, then we will create our cleverly lit ‘leaf stages’. During this course we will examine the importance of composition and reveal the colours needed to mix realistic greens, browns and reds. You will learn more about capturing light in watercolour paint – how to make things look really three dimensional and how tackle trickier things, such as the translucency and hairs.

Úrsula will prepare a step-by-step process for each so you can see how to paint your subject in stages and she will be on hand, giving live demonstrations for you to watch so you leave feeling full of expert knowledge. This course is suitable for all levels.

6-7 DAYS PAINTING - under the expert tutorship of Vincent

Jeannerot in the

Floral Kingdom/ Namaqualand region

Cape Town - Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens

A 3-Week Watercolor Course

In this 3-week course, we’ll explore the rich and surprisingly colorful world of black botanicals through watercolor and layered observation. While black may initially appear simple or flat, nature reveals it as incredibly complex. Black is filled with subtle temperature shifts, reflected light, deep chromatic variation, and hidden color relationships. Using dramatic floral and botanical subjects as our inspiration, we’ll investigate how to create luminous, dimensional darks

that feel alive rather than heavy or opaque.

Throughout the course, students will learn how to mix and manipulate rich blacks using triadic color combinations rather than relying solely on tube blacks. We’ll study how black changes in different lighting situations, how reflected color influences shadow passages, and how to maintain depth and atmosphere within dark subjects. Emphasis will be placed on careful observation, color temperature, value structure, and preserving luminosity within layered watercolor washes.

What Students Will Learn

• How to create rich chromatic blacks using triadic mixtures

• Understanding warm vs. cool blacks and subtle temperature shifts

• How black surfaces change in light, shadow, and reflected color

• Developing dimensional form within dark botanical subjects

• Layering watercolor to build depth without losing luminosity

• Controlling value structure and edge variation in low-key paintings

• Strategies for balancing detail and atmosphere within dark compositions

This course is ideal for students looking to deepen their understanding of color mixing, value relationships, and expressive botanical watercolor techniques through a more dramatic and unexpected palette. Photo references will be provided each week.

Register Here:

https://lymeartassociation.org/online-class-black-botanicals/

On this exploratory week-long course, you will begin by creating experimental hand embroidery samples. You will develop these nature-inspired hand embroidery techniques, ultimately making a textile artwork or embellishing a pre-made item of your own (such as a cushion cover or clothing).

The beginning of the week will start with simple drawing exercises. Lora will then guide you in how to best translate your drawings into stitch. Looking at a variety of classic hand embroidery and embellishment techniques, you will learn how to play with scale and materials to create different qualities of line, 3D relief and texture. You will learn how to combine this with three dimensional fabric flowers using Lora’s fabric pleater.

This will be an intensive and experimental week where you can learn Lora’s trade tips and tricks to create an original and dynamic mixed-media textile design of your own. This workshop will also be the perfect opportunity for anyone who wants to push their hand embroidery skills in different directions—and exploring what can be done with this very traditional craft. It will be a playful week, centred around developing ideas and making sure that all participants can go away with samples to reference for future projects and a finished piece of work.

This week is suitable for all skill levels, the course is designed to be flexible to enable participants to go in the direction they please with what they have learnt. Lora will provide embroidery patterns to work from if you are not keen on drawing your own.

Please note:

• Supplies are included in the tuition fee cost.
• We will spend half a day drawing.
• This is a hand embroidery workshop, there will not be any machine embroidery taught.

Optional Yoga:

• In addition to the embroidery and drawing schedule, the classes will be broken up with optional short yoga stretches led by guest tutor Eleanor from Art of Rest.
• These will be offered at convenient times of each day, and an optional (but highly recommended) restorative yoga class will be led one evening at no additional cost.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/makers-retreats/botanical-embroidery-with-lora-avedian-makers-retreats-france

Or email:

atelierclosmirabel@gmail.com

Discover the fascinating world of Botanical Art, starting with a walk around the magnificent Clos Mirabel property to choose your subject. A variety of plants will be in bloom including Roses, Hydrangeas, Iris, Lupin, Lilies and numerous fruits and vegetables growing in the Jardin Potager.

Catherine will introduce her 10 stages to successfully illustrate a subject. You will carefully observe, measure and draw your subject focusing on form, light and texture. After composing your illustration, we will discuss the properties of watercolours and transparent colour mixing. You will apply several layers from the base tea wash to the dry brush finishing touches, using proper lighting to make your subject come to life.

The course will include presentations, numerous demonstrations and the chance to exhibit your work on the last day. Catherine will also show you how to create a Botanical Journal to document your experience at Clos Mirabel. This is a lovely way to capture a special moment in a magical place.

Students will work with graphite and watercolour. If you prefer, you can use coloured pencils. All levels of experience are welcome.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/colours-of-clos-mirabel-botanical-art-retreat-catherine-watters-2027

Join Sarah Morrish as she returns to Transylvania for the third time. The focus of this early summer masterclass will be on how to use gouache (an opaque water-based media) to depict bugs, birds and botanicals. With a maximum of just 5 students, the best student-to-tutor ratio of any botanical art retreat on offer in Europe today, this masterclass is suitable for those with experience of detailed botanical drawing. It will give you the opportunity to advance your drawing and painting skills. You will receive expert tuition tailored to your individual needs. The fee includes six night of accommodation in your own room with bathroom, 30+ hours of tuition over 5 full days, all meals and drinks throughout your stay, all adventures at dawn and dusk to explore this wonderfully unspoilt pastoral landscape and Sibiu airport transfers.

This workshop offers the perfect balance of structured demonstrations, guided exercises, and personal tuition.

Specific areas covered include:

• How to observe and interpret light on botanical subjects
• Ways to use layering, transparency, and controlled washes to create luminous watercolours
• Practical methods for confident colour selection and mixing
• Techniques to express both botanical accuracy and emotional connection

Early in the week, the group will travel into the mountains to sketch alpine plants in their natural light. Back in the studio, these studies will be developed into finished paintings, working step-by-step with Mary Dillon’s guidance throughout the course of the week.

This creative retreat also offers time to rest, reflect, and enjoy delicious meals from locally sourced produce in a peaceful, inspiring setting. With beautiful accommodation, a spacious studio and warm hospitality, Clos Mirabel provides the perfect environment to focus on your art and recharge your creative energy. This workshop is ideal for artists who wish to deepen their botanical practice and learn to paint with light as their guide.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/painting-with-light-botanical-art-retreat-mary-dillon-2027

During your week with Lara Call Gastinger, you will be observing, drawing and painting the local flora of Atelier Clos Mirabel in the French Pyrénées.

Lara will guide you through the process of how to create a botanical painting, starting with sketching and learning the important characteristics of plants. We will seek botanical inspiration from the acreage of Atelier Clos Mirabel and with a trip to the meadows of the Pyrénées. 

After the first day of sketching, you will focus on using watercolours to capture the colours and textures of the plants. In the end, you will work on composition and how to create a finished botanical painting.

This workshop is the perfect opportunity for all levels of experience.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/fall-botanical-sketching-and-painting-with-lara-call-gastinger-2027

Learn Denise Walser-Kolar’s approach to painting on vellum during this five-day workshop at the beautiful Atelier Clos Mirabel in South West France. We will begin by doing some exercises on small bits of vellum to learn technique and to get a feel for painting on this surface. Then, we will explore the grounds of Clos Mirabel to choose painting subjects from the grounds, orchards, and kitchen garden.

This class is designed for students new to vellum (learn how to successfully paint on vellum) as well as for more experienced vellum painters (learn new tricks and techniques and bring your work to the next level). The workshop combines demonstrations, discussion of materials and techniques, hands-on time for developing skills, and lots of individual attention and feedback.

You may also choose to do a Hoefnagel-Inspired painting of the treasures you find in the gardens. Experienced vellum painters can use this as a studio class to work on anything they like.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/painting-on-vellum-in-france-botanical-art-workshop-denise-walser-kolar-2027

During this botanical art retreat at Atelier Clos Mirabel, Jarnie Godwin will focus on some of her favourite and most loved autumn finds. In the ‘Abundant Autumn’ workshop you will be exploring and painting rose hips, seeds, chestnuts, leaves, and Jarnie’s most loved acorns in all of the rich, vibrant, and beautiful colours that the season has to offer.

Your botanical art retreat will begin by taking in the enchanting grounds of Clos Mirabel, where you will source the most intriguing and inspiring found subjects. Curiosity is the key, as you open your mindset to look for character and presence in your subjects.

During the week, Jarnie will take you through her own techniques to mix a wealth of vibrant colours including pure, natural greens, rich neutral browns and soft complex greys with just your primary hues. Using a limited palette, you will explore, play and experiment with colour mixing and layering clean, and vibrant watercolours. Take your practice further as you learn how to manipulate and form natural texture, pattern and contrast using wet into damp, and dry brush techniques. Jarnie will also demonstrate how to deal with mistakes with her successful techniques for troubleshooting.

There will be plenty of time for Jarnie to offer dedicated one-to-one tuition to all students, supporting and encouraging you every step of the way. Each day introduces new opportunities to pick up ideas and techniques for your own practice through Jarnie’s unique and relaxed teaching style. Her experience as a teacher informs Jarnie’s warm, knowledgable, and approachable tuition, as she aims to inspire, and empower her students to develop their own style and skill with confidence. This will make for a relaxing, fun and inspiring week away at Atelier Clos Mirabel ideal for all.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/botanical-art/abundant-autumn-jarnie-godwin-botanical-art-retreat

or email:

atelierclosmirabel@gmail.com 

Kathleen Speranza is an American painter. She works in oil and is best known for her series of work with Garden Roses.

Kathleen approaches roses as individuals in a poetic dialogue with space and light; despite their fragile appearance, roses are powerfully designed pieces of living architecture. This class will focus on perceiving their underlying structure and simplifying their forms. Students will learn a specific limited palette in order to translate their exquisite colour shifts. Roses from the garden at Clos Mirabel will provide the class with the best kind of inspiration!

Students will learn the proper technique for lighting their own small still life motifs. We will do some preparatory drawing and a monochrome “wash in” technique on the first day. Subsequent days will be spent working from life with an emphasis on mixing accurate colour. A custom “colour checker” will be provided to each person for this purpose. We will work to find an emotional connection through close observation and proper technique.

To find out more and book your place, visit:

https://atelier.clos-mirabel.com/painting-holidays/painting-garden-roses-with-kathleen-speranza-2027

or email:

atelierclosmirabel@gmail.com 

Join Julia Trickey on her fourth visit to us in Transylvania for a week of botanical and artistic fellowship! With a maximum of just 5 students, the best student-to-tutor ratio of any botanical art retreat on offer in Europe today, this masterclass is suitable for those with experience in detailed botanical drawing. It will give you the opportunity to advance your drawing and painting skills. You will receive expert tuition tailored to your individual needs. The fee includes six nights of accommodation in your own bedroom with bathroom, 30+ hours of tuition over 5 full days, all meals and drinks throughout your stay, all adventures at dawn and dusk in this remarkable pastoral landscape, and Sibiu airport transfers.