Retreats and Workshops

For my 40th birthday my family pitched in to make my wish of going to an art retreat withCarolynGavincome to fruition. At the time, I was a beginner and a little intimidated before arriving. Before we had even painted my nerves were at ease and I knew I had landed in the most accepting creative space with creatives just like me from around the world, in search of art, but also beauty and community. During paint sessions,Carolyngracefully guided us in her demonstrations and then individually as we put paint to paper.

Each session I felt I was growing as a painter as I tried new techniques and colors.  Equally inspiring was learning from all the amazing artists that were also drawn toCarolyn’s art and the day trips to local towns and provinces. This retreat changed my life in so many ways. In a week, I expanded my art practice, made lifelong friendships and  gained confidence in my artistic pursuits. The decision to go to this retreat was one of the best decisions of my life and I’m forever grateful for all the doors this one incredible week opened for me.

Carolynis not only a talented artist but also one of the most generous and inspiring people I know. Her art retreats are such a great experience—she creates the kind of space where you can truly relax, get out of your own way, and just make. She brings out the creativity in everyone, and somehow always knows just what encouragement or nudge you need.

Traveling and learning with her is relaxing, motivating, and so much fun. If you’re thinking about joining one of her retreats—do it. You’ll come away with new skills, new friends, and a renewed love for making art.

Morocco
My first art retreat with Carolyn was in Morocco, and it truly felt like a dream come to life. Everything was thoughtfully planned—the food, the beautiful location, the day trips into the city, the wonderful group of fellow artists—and of course, the painting! Carolyn is an amazing artist and a generous, encouraging teacher. She introduced us to new techniques and materials I hadn’t used before, and made the whole experience exciting and rewarding.

Belize
I was so excited about Carolyn’s Belize retreat that I signed up the day she announced it! It was another amazing trip, full of beauty and inspiration. Day trips included a butterfly sanctuary, a cacao farm, and a gorgeous spice garden. Every day we painted by the water. I loved watching Carolyn work while she explained her process and taught new techniques and ways of thinking about art. Each retreat has made me a more confident painter, and I can’t wait for the next one (in India)!

Carolyn’s work is subtle, dreamy and harmonious, just like lovely Carolynherself. WatchCarolynblend colour using the most delicate brushwork.  How does she dooo that, you wonder?  Lucky for us, she always demonstrates and will even guide your hand to make those awesome brushstrokes if you ask her to.  A special thrill for me:  SeeingCarolyn‘s process as she paints landscapes.  It’s the technique she has developed that turns nature’s visual zones into striped and mosaic-like abstractions that I find so exciting.  Challenging and engrossing to try on your own— I’m still working on it.  Or—really fun—maybe she’ll have you work on collages, making and gluing cutouts from your original paintings done on the spot.  

I’ve had the privilege of painting with Carolyn Gavin retreats in Vietnam and Mexico, and I can honestly say that working with her has been transformative. Carolyn is not just a brilliant teacher; she’s a generous mentor who has deeply impacted my painting practice. Through her guidance, I’ve learned to trust the paint, embrace colour, and, most importantly, to simply relish the joy of painting. Her brilliance and kindness have reshaped how I view myself and my creative abilities. Carolyn has shown me how to celebrate my talent, value creativity, and thrive in the process of making art. Her encouragement has motivated me to step into my own space as an artist. Meeting Carolyn and painting alongside other like-minded people has been one of the highlights of my life. It has enriched me and made my world. Thanks to Carolyn, I know I can create things that bring joy to myself and others. That, for me, is the true beauty of it all. I hope to paint with Carolyn forever

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