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Go Wild in Costa Rica with Candace Clough and Pam Goode

Go Wild in Costa Rica with Candace Clough and Pam Goode
January 13 – 20, 2019
$1980 Double, $2380 Single
(Double Your Fun Discount: See Info Below)

Join Candace and Pam for a rollicking jaunt through the Costa Rican jungle to identify favorite flora and fauna and then create your own mixed media art.

Finca Luna Nueva

Rainforest Trail

Flowers Onsite

Studio Visitor

Our retreat will combine a six day mixed media mosaic workshop led by Candace Clough with onsite organic farm and rainforest tours, farm to table organic meals grown, prepared and served onsite, and a lazy water safari to view shore birds and monkeys. Accommodations will be at glorious Finca Luna Nueva (New Moon Farm), a sustainable rainforest ecolodge and certified organic biodynamic farm with single or double lodge and cabin accommodations, panoramic open-air workspace, wifi, ionized pool, jacuzzi, and spa. Optional activities at an extra cost include guided Arenal Volcano Lava Hike, Butterfly Garden or Cloud Forest Tours, Zipline Canopy Tour, Rafting, or Hanging Bridge Canopy Tour.

Safari Float

Playing with Butterflies

Scented Brugmansia

Open Air Studio

We’ll have a scheduled lesson each day, as well as on-site tours during our first days in Costa Rica, plus twenty-four hour access to the open-air studio overlooking the forest and gardens. During free time, choose to continue art projects, enjoy the grounds and pool, grab an organic smoothie and head for the hammock, schedule an on-site bird watching tour, or make transportation arrangements in the office for any number of local adventure activities.

Coleoptera Wheel by Candace Clough

WORKSHOP

If you’re a follower of Candace’s work, you might have noticed that she never seems to do the same thing twice. She calls herself “tess-curious”, and it’s that spirit of discovering new materials and new ways of using and combining them that keeps her excited about art. Take a close look at the colorful beetles above and you’ll see stained glass, smalti, china, millefiori, beads, formed tile, and eggshell, all uniting seamlessly into a dynamic expression of an everyday bug.

Inspiration will be taken from naturalist-led walks around the property, which includes rainforest, landscaped gardens, herb gardens, and farmland. Materials will be a mix of student and instructor-supplied yummies. Candace will share her process from inspiration to design, material selection, fabrication and completion and will also talk about her experimental work.

Candace Clough, Design to Installation

INCLUDED

Transfer from Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose to the Lodge and Return Transfer
Seven Nights Accommodation (rooms will be assigned in the order received)
Six Breakfasts, Six Lunches, Seven Dinners when at Lodge
6-Day Mosaic Workshop and Open Studio Time
Daily Access to the Secondary Rainforest and Primary Rainforest
One Guided Farm Tour Onsite
One Guided Rainforest Tour Onsite
One River Safari with Transportation

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare To and From Costa Rica
Optional Tours and Activities
Transportation for Optional Tours or Local Transportation (Arrangements Provided at Lodge)
Offsite Meals
Trip Insurance (Recommended) (More info here)
Gratuities
Alcohol, If Available

Capturing Rainforest Images

Sunlit Flora

Down on the Farm

Candace Clough

NEED TO KNOW

Retreat has a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10. Please reserve early, but don’t make flight reservations until notified that we’ve met the minimum.
Participants will bring their own materials; details to follow.

GOOD TO KNOW

Temperatures for January average High 73, Low 59, with .4″ of Rain
Central Standard Time
Latitude: 10° North of the equator, with equal hours of light and darkness
Currency: US dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere, including tips
Electricity: 110, with standard US plugs
Fast Facts: Literacy rate 96.3%; Military abolished in 1948
Costa Rica is among the countries with the highest amount of protected land in the world; 25% of the nation is dedicated to park systems, reserves, or natural wildlife areas
Bridging the northern and southern most points of the two American contents, Costa Rica is the meeting point for a variety of cultures and a density of plant and animal species said to be unlike any other country in the world
Approximately 850 bird species, 9000 plant species, 34,000 insect species, 205 mammalian species, 220 reptilian species, and 160 amphibian species

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATIONS

Irish at Heart Artisan Tour and Workshop

17 Aug

Irish at Heart Artisan Tour and Workshop
with Jean Cauthen, Laura McRae-Hitchcock, and Pam Goode
Painting, Mosaic, Creative Writing
May 19 – 28, 2017
$2600, Double Occupancy; $3100, Single Occupancy

I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;
Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee,
And live alone in the bee loud glade. ~ William Butler Yeats

Join us for a tour along the wondrously wild Atlantic coast of Ireland as we visit the artisans inspired by this land of rugged natural beauty. We’ll also offer a wide range of classes in painting, mosaic, plein air work, and creative writing, as well as demos by local artists.

Our base will be Listowel in County Kerry, only eight miles from the sea and a thriving town filled with Irish charm, fabulous locally grown food, theatre, art, traditional pubs, scones to die for, parks and a lush riverwalk, castle ruins, and easy access to all parts of a country you can drive across in five hours.

Days will be spent in your choice of a variety of classes, plein air painting sessions, open studio, lecture/demos, and artist visits. Evenings will include a gourmet Irish cooking class, local music, local theatre, pub theatre featuring local writers (and insanely good Guinness), and local cuisine.

Excursions begin with the Cliffs of Moher, a half-day visit to one of the Aran Islands, and a ferry ride for a close-up and personal view of the cliffs and bird life from the water. A mid-week excursion will take us to the atmospheric Dingle Peninsula, with incredible coastline views from Slea Head Drive and visits to several of the local artisans who create here. Along the way we’ll have stops for painting and/or photography and shelling.

Accommodations

Group accommodations will be at Listowel Arms Hotel, Town Square. The hotel features double and single rooms with private bath, town or river views, restaurant, bar, sitting areas, and a delightful terrace on the river. The Arms is located one block from our studio space at Olive Stack Gallery; additionally some classes may be held at the hotel. One night may be at the Cliffs on Ballybunion Beach. Lodging for our Ballyvaughan overnight will be at a hotel similar to the Arms.

Workshop Space

In addition to plein air painting in numerous locations around town and beyond, mosaic workshops and Open Studio will be held in the bright and spacious studio at Olive Stack Gallery. Other locations may include the Listowel Arms and personal artist studios. Transportation will be provided if necessary.

Workshop Options by Jean, Laura and Pam

All registrants will be able to participant in any and all workshops of their choosing, time permitting, regardless of medium or instructor. Workshops are still being added, but selections will include:

Plein Air Painting (Multiple Options)
Studio Painting
Building a Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting
Photograph Manipulation for Painting or Mosaic
Working with Color
Mosaic Landscapes
Mosaic Techniques
Encaustic Demonstration by Olive Stack
Painting Demonstration by Jim Dunne
Cooking Class
Creative/Travel Writing for Journals
Quick Sketch
Travel Watercolor Journaling
Pebble/Sea Glass Jewelry
Open Studio

NOTE: Local participants are welcome to register for classes a la carte. Please contact Laura to be added to the mailing list when the schedule is finalized.

Tentative Schedule, Subject to Change

Thursday, May 18: Depart for Ireland, Shannon Airport (SNN)
Friday, May 19: Morning Shannon Arrival, group airport pickup at Noon, departure for Cliffs of Moher and overnight in Ballyvaughan
Saturday, May 20: Ferry to and morning on Aran Islands, ferry beneath Cliffs of Moher, transfer to Listowel, hotel check-in and dinner (included)
Sunday, May 21: Morning and Afternoon workshops of your choice, painting demo and talk by Jim Dunne, local painter and muralist, walking tour of Listowel with local historian, cooking class for half the group, others dinner at Listowel Arms (included)
Monday, May 22: Morning and Afternoon workshops or plein air painting, Encaustic demo and talk by Olive Stack, local artist, cooking class for half the group, others dinner at Listowel Arms (included)
Tuesday, May 23: Early Departure for Dingle Peninsula, tour, visit artisans, paint, photography, return to Listowel, dinner Listowel Arms (included)
Wednesday, May 24: Morning and Afternoon workshops or plein air painting, local discovery excursions, BBQ with Olive Stack (included)
Thursday, May 25: Morning and Afternoon workshops or plein air painting, local discovery excursions, dinner on your own, optional event at St. John’s Theatre
Friday, May 26: Morning workshop or plein air painting, exhibition set-up, Gallery Exhibition and Reception for group, 6-9:00 Club with locals, Pub Theatre
Saturday, May 27: Open Studio and interactive exercises, farewell lunch catered by Lizzie’s Little Kitchen (included), mid-afternoon departure for Shannon, tour of local ruins and local lore with Damian, dinner on your own, Park Inn Hotel (one-minute walk from Shannon Airport Check-In) (included)
Sunday, May 28: Return Flights

Cost: $2600 Per Person, Double Occupancy; $3100 Per Person, Single Occupancy. DISCOUNTS: Payments by check or cash may deduct $75 from the final payment. $100 Discount for those not participating in any classes. $100 Discount for repeat students of Jean Cauthen, Laura McRae-Hitchcock, or Pam Goode. Maximum allowed discount is $175 from total price. Discounts do not apply to local à la carte students.

Included

Airport Transfer Both Ways on Dates Shown Only
9 Nights Lodging
4 Dinners, 1 Lunch, 9 Breakfasts
All Excursions, Transportation, Admissions Listed
All Artist Demos Listed

Not Included

Airfare
Meals Not Listed Above
Alcohol
Personal Purchases or Excursions
Trip Insurance (Recommended)

What They Say

“I would follow you anywhere.” California. “It was truly one of the top adventures of my life.” Michigan. “This trip has been so far beyond anything I expected.” Anon. “Everything was simply wonderful! From the perfect location, size and comfort of our apartment to the transportation, to your generous spirits. But I most appreciated the pace of the trip as I never felt rushed or pushed and the free time gave me space to explore alone. All of my needs were met beyond my expectations. I have already recommended you to someone and will gladly do so over and over again.” Montana

To register or for more information, email Pam. The combined information/fine print/registration form includes payment information, travel insurance suggestions, deadlines, etc. Information on flights, accommodations, and a full list of workshops will be emailed to participants. Registrations will be accepted with 50% payment.

Affiliations: This workshop is part of the Ciel Abroad program at Ciel Gallery, and is also affilitated with Olive Stack Gallery in Listowel, County Kerry.

About the Instructors

Jean Cauthen grew up in Naples, Italy, New Orleans and the Carolinas, completing her education with an MFA (Painting and Drawing) at James Madison University in Virginia. Her art career has led her to Moscow, Russia as a set designer, and she regularly returns to Italy (sometimes with students). When not working plein air, she creates large scale paintings in her studio near Charlotte, NC. “My concentration is simple. No matter the subject, my focus is color against color. Shape with shape. Mark to mark. From this, and with care, expression and meaning can emerge.” www.jeancauthen.com

Laura McRae-Hitchcock has been painting for over 30 years. She is a partner artist and teacher with Ciel Gallery and recent Artist in Residence at Olive Stack Gallery in Listowel, Ireland. Additionally, she is a 2016 participant in the nationally celebrated ArtPop program and grant recipient from the Arts and Science Council. “I try to get to the heart of the matter….my heart, that is. I’ve given up trying to be perfect, and instead I focus on finding that space where my heart speaks with paint. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but wow, what a ride it is!” www.lauramcraehitchcock.com

Pam Goode is a mosaic artist, writer, founding partner at Ciel Gallery, and founder of Mosaic Art Retreats. An avid traveler, Pam is most inspired by being in unfamiliar surrounds where every sight, every thought, is new. “I see everything differently — feel everything differently — and the ability to communicate my own transformation though art thrills me.” A lifelong writer, Pam has been creating mosaics for sixteen years, working with a wide variety of materials. “My goal is to bring a sense of joy, wonder, or peace to viewers. I need to create a mosaic that sings, that resonates, that helps you remember who you are and where you want to go with vibrating clarity.” www.pamelagoodemosaics.com

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Tags: Art Classes Abroad, Art Workshops in Ireland, County Kerry, Cultural Travel, Educational Travel, International Art Workshops, Ireland Travel, Irish Artisans, Irish at Heart, Jean Cauthen Artist, Laura McRae Hitchcock Fine Art, Listowel, Lovely Listowel, Mosaic Art Retreats, Mosaic Classes Abroad, Mosaic Workshop, Mosaic Workshops, Mosaics in Ireland, Olive Stack Gallery, Painting in Ireland, Painting Workshops, Pam Goode, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Travel

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Categories Art Workshop, Travel

MORE Flora and Fauna in Costa Rica, January 2017!

6 May

Flora + Fauna in Costa Rica with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode
January 7 – 15, 2017
San Ramon Area, Costa Rica
$1960 per person, Double Occupancy; $2360 Single Occupancy

“There’s really only one way to venture into the rainforest in search of the life that teems there, and that is to still your body and mind and wait. Once you give up the searching and simply watch for tiny flutters, everything around you is brilliantly alive” ~Pam Goode, 2016

Is it any wonder we can’t stay away? Please join Carol and Pam for our third retreat in the rainforest wilds of Costa Rica.

“The trip from airport to bliss is one of my favorite parts, no matter the route. Arriving late, I miss seeing shafts of light strain through sugarcane fronds along the Pan Am highway, so tall that there is only green and sky and blacktop as far as you can see. As a consolation gift, the dark hangs purple in swaths across the skies like aprons bulging with plums.

Yellow lights twinkle across the valleys with a decidedly un-citified lack of regimentation, taking on the look of teenagers strolling idly with no set agenda, lanterns in hand.

The night deepens and the empty winding road is steeper now. The living guard rails watch as we pass, while streams topped by one-lane bridges make their dash toward the Pacific. It is an unaccustomed bliss. These days, how often do I wander through the night? I drink it in.” ~ Pam Goode 2016

Our 2017 retreat will combine a five day mosaic realism workshop on the flora and fauna of Costa Rica led by Carol Shelkin with onsite organic farm and rainforest tours and an adventure or two (think water safaris, hot springs, butterfly gardens, lava hikes). Accommodations will be at glorious Finca Luna Nueva (New Moon Farm), a sustainable rainforest ecolodge and certified organic biodynamic farm with single or double lodge and cabin accommodations (triples and quads also available), fabulous organic food grown and prepared onsite, panoramic open-air workspace with 24-hour accessibility, wifi, ionized pool, jacuzzi, and spa. Optional activities at an extra cost include guided Arenal Volcano Lava Hike, Butterfly Garden or Cloud Forest Tours, Zipline Canopy Tour, Rafting, or Hanging Bridge Canopy Tour.

“I wake to brilliant sunlight and a cacophony of birds at 6:15, a time of day I rarely see. The purple-flowering hedge that greets our front door is a-whirr with the ever ready wings of hummingbirds, and there’s a 28″ iguana lolling in the crook of a tree 10 feet beyond me. It’s a good morning, cool and bright, and coffee, tea, juice, organic eggs, rice and beans, and an array of tropical fruits await us.” Pam Goode, 2016

INCLUDED

Transfer from Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose to the Lodge and Return Transfer
Eight Nights Accommodation (rooms will be assigned in the order received)
Seven Breakfasts, Seven Lunches, Seven Dinners when at Lodge
5-Day Mosaic Workshop and Open Studio Time
Access to the Secondary Rainforest and Primary Rainforest
One Guided Farm Tour
One Guided Rainforest Tour
One River Safari with Transportation

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare To and From Costa Rica
Optional Tours and Activities
Transportation for Optional Tours or Local Transportation (Arrangements Provided)
Offsite Meals
Trip Insurance (Recommended)
Gratuities
Departure Tax of $29
Alcohol, If Available

NEED TO KNOW

Retreat has a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10. Please reserve early, but don’t make flight reservations until notified that we’ve met the minimum.
Participants will bring their own materials; details to follow. Packing Tips here.
Photos from our 2013 Retreat are here.

GOOD TO KNOW

Temperatures for January average High 73, Low 59, with .4″ of Rain
Central Standard Time
Latitude: 10° North of the equator, with equal hours of light and darkness
Currency: US dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere, including tips
Electricity: 110, with standard US plugs
Fast Facts: Literacy rate 96.3%; Military abolished in 1948
Costa Rica is among the countries with the highest amount of protected land in the world; 25% of the nation is dedicated to park systems, reserves, or natural wildlife areas
Bridging the northern and southern most points of the two American contents, Costa Rica is the meeting point for a variety of cultures and a density of plant and animal species said to be unlike any other country in the world
Approximately 850 bird species, 9000 plant species, 34,000 insect species, 205 mammalian species, 220 reptilian species, and 160 amphibian species

ABOUT THE LEADERS

Read more about Carol Shelkin here. Contact Carol here.
Read more about Pam Goode here. Contact Pam here.

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATIONS

Read more about Finca Luna Nueva here.

TO REGISTER

Contact Pam here for a reservation form.

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Tags: Arenal Volcano, Art Classes, Carol Shelkin Mosaics, Costa Rica Travel, Cultural Travel, Eco Travel, Educational Travel, Finca Luna Nueva, International Mosaic Workshops, Learning Adventures, Mosaic Art Retreats, Mosaic Workshop, Mosaic Workshops Abroad, Mosaics in Costa Rica, Mosaics with Carol Shelkin, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Rainforest Mosaics, Rainforest Workshop

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Categories Art Workshop, Mosaic, Travel

Gaudi, Dali and Picasso: Barcelona and Costa Brava with Pam Goode and Carol Shelkin

25 Feb

Gaudi, Dali and Picasso:
Barcelona and Costa Brava with Pam Goode and Carol Shelkin
September 9 – 17, 2016
$2850 Double Occupancy
$3350 Single Occupancy (Limited)

Well Hello Dali and Gaudi Y’all! Get ready to Pic A So So So FABULOUS fall excursion to the heart of Barcelona’s art scene and the wild Mediterranean coast. Join Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode for a blissful eight days in Barcelona getting up close and personal with Gaudi, Picasso, Dali, some local tapas, a little cava, a little Costa Brava, and the coolest dragon you’re likely to see.

We’ll fill our days visiting the iconic mosaic sites of uber-cool and laid-back Barcelona, including crowd-fave Park Guell, the mind-blowingly unlikely Sagrada Familia, and the world’s largest Art Nouveau site. We’ll explore tiny streets, gothic marvels, trendy eateries, and sip lattes in courtyards surrounded by a town that boasts remnants from 5500 BC. And we’ll get cooking! Our guided tour through the famous boqueria will be filled with tips on how to select the wiggliest squid for your paella followed by a hands-on cooking class featuring Catalan favorites.

We’ll also spend a day meeting Dali, touring his Alice-in-Wonderland home, and getting deliciously disoriented on the tiny white-washed lanes of Cadaques, then wandering the foresty paths along Spain’s Wild Coast.

We’ll stay on one of the prettiest streets in town in apartments with plenty of space to stretch out, store your yogurt, and sip tea on the balcony. Optional excursions run the gamut from a funicular into the mountains to visit Benedictine monks and a ferris wheel with a view of the entire city, surrounding mountains, and Mediterranean beyond.

Dates

Thursday, September 8: US Departure

Friday, September 9: Barcelona Arrival

Saturday, September 17: Barcelona Departure

Accommodations

We’ll have 1 – 2 lovely, light-filled, large apartments with two twin beds per room, kitchen, large dining table, living room, balcony, elevator, and multiple bathrooms. Easy walking distance to all amenities (grocery, ATM, restaurants, cafes, pastries and gelato) in the heart of Barcelona. Two metro stations within 2 -3 blocks.

Cost Includes

8 Nights Double Accommodation
Airport Transfer Both Ways
City Map
Tour of Gaudi Sites Park Guell, Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Sagrada Familia
Picasso Museum
Tour of Palau de la Musica and Hopital Sant Pau
Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class
Day Exploring the Costa Brava, including Dali’s House

Not Included

Airfare
Meals
Tips
Personal Expenses
Optional Excursions

About the Leaders

Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode are professional mosaic artists, instructors, and insatiable travelers. Read more about Carol here and Pam here.

Why We’re Different

We don’t do canned tours. We’re artists too, so we know what you’re here to see, and we make sure that’s what you get.
We don’t do big groups. No giant buses, no Tour sign on a stick so you can find us in the crowd, no formula meals at giant personality-free restaurants that can seat groups of 50.
We don’t do tourist hotels. All accommodations are well-researched and specifically chosen to give you the experience of living in a city rather than being run through it on a conveyor belt.
Our goal is to present an experience of traveling with friends. We present a well-researched framework and invite you to enjoy it in your own style at your own pace.

Recommendations

“I went on this trip 2 years ago. It was the best trip of my life. Carol and Pam were amazing hosts and planned the most amazing sight seeing, food eating, money spending, mosaic making, museum seeing and bed sleeping I’ve ever had. You should go!” ~from Beth

Learn More about Barcelona here.

To Register

To register or for more information, please email Pam. Deposit of $1500 is due with registration. Full payment is due by August 1.

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Tags: Art Abroad, Art Travel, Barcelona, Barcelona Mosaics, Carol Shelkin Workshops, Cultural Travel, Dali, Educational Travel, Gaudi, International Art Tours, International Art Travel, International Mosaic Workshops, Mosaic, Mosaic Art Retreats, Mosaic Art Tours, Mosaics Abroad, Pam Goode Workshops, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Picasso, Spanish Cooking Class, Travel

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Categories Art Retreats, Travel

Flora + Fauna of Costa Rica with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode

28 May

Flora + Fauna in Costa Rica with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode
January 9 – 17, 2016
San Ramon Area, Costa Rica
$1960 per person, Double Occupancy; $2360 Single Occupancy

Resident Sloth, Carlita

Heliconia

Workshop Visitor

Farm Trail, © Pam Goode

“Up at 5:45, and I’ve already missed the sunrise. I go to breakfast early to do some writing, and all nine of us are already there, ready to take on the day. We scarf down eggs cooked with tomato, beans and rice, half-dollar-sized cornmeal cakes, rustic bread, buffalo cheese (fabulous), buffalo yogurt, and carambola (starfruit) jam. As soon as I finish, I miss the tastes. By 9:00 we’re gathered for our tour of the organic farm, and before we hit the path, our guide Ishmael has already shown us a tree full of toucans (yesterday a flock of parakeets flew overhead); jackfruit, which can weight up to 75 pounds and often hangs bulbously and pimpled in an unseamly flop between forks in the tree; and the fruit of the Lipstick tree, a beautifully freakish hairy and crimson pod used to color lipsticks, cheddar cheese, fingers (oops) and cheetos. Just beyond, Ishmael moves beneath a large bush, reaches both hands overhead to grasp an oblong yellow fruit, and begins twisting it on the stem until it snaps. About a foot long, this is cacao, the mother of chocolate. Smashed once against a trunk, the pod opens to reveal a white slime, which we’re encouraged to taste, and it is deliciously sweet/tart with the faintest hint of bitter chocolate. Later Ishmael hands us the halves of several nerf-ball-sized green orbs with fleshy spikes, with a thicker white goo-ish interior. This is anonas, or custard apple, also known as ice cream fruit, and the most sublime mouthful I’ve ever tasted. I eat more than my share, scooping out the custard with my fingers and licking it up eagerly.” ~ Pam Goode, Costa Rica Retreat, 2013

Firing Up the Pizza Oven, © Pam Goode

Baby Ocelot

Costa Rica, how we’ve missed you! Our 2016 retreat will combine onsite organic farm and rainforest tours, an adventure or two (think water safaris, hot springs, butterfly gardens, lava hikes), and a possible community outreach project in a neighboring village. Accommodations will be at glorious Finca Luna Nueva (New Moon Farm), a sustainable rainforest ecolodge and certified organic biodynamic farm with single or double lodge and cabin accommodations (triples and quads also available), fabulous organic food grown and prepared onsite, panoramic open-air workspace, wifi, ionized pool, jacuzzi, and spa. Optional activities at an extra cost include guided Arenal Volcano Lava Hike, Butterfly Garden or Cloud Forest Tours, Zipline Canopy Tour, Rafting, or Hanging Bridge Canopy Tour. And surprise! There’s a new baby ocelot wandering around 🙂

INCLUDED

Transfer from Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose to the Lodge and Return Transfer
Eight Nights Accommodation (rooms will be assigned in the order received)
Seven Breakfasts, Seven Lunches, Seven Dinners
One Guided Farm Tour
One Guided Rainforest Tour
5-Day Mosaic Workshop and Open Studio Time
Access to the Secondary Rainforest and Primary Rainforest

Open Air Work Space

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare To and From Costa Rica
Optional Tours and Activities
Transportation for Optional Tours or Local Transportation (Arrangements Provided)
Offsite Meals
Trip Insurance (Recommended)
Gratuities
Departure Tax of $29
Alcohol, If Available

AVAILABLE OUTINGS

Optional activities at an extra cost include guided Arenal Volcano Lava Hike, lunches and dinners in town, Butterfly Garden or Cloud Forest Tours, Zipline Canopy Tour, Rafting, or Hanging Bridge Canopy Tour.
One Day will be set aside for on-your-own adventures. We will choose as a group, but additional free time during the week is always an option.

Birds at Rest, Penas Blancas, CR, © Pam Goode

“The river is magnificent. The banks are almost vertical for twelve feet in many places, and covered with ferns and far too many tree species to taken in, several easily 200 feet. The occasional bamboo stand seems to have been caught in a cyclone, with every trunk twisted counterclockwise from the ground up into one reedy giantess, her broad stride twisting to a skinny waist and then flayed out against the sky again. We see a large family of howler monkeys noisily leaping through the trees, and a pair of white-faced capuchins, a fairly rare sighting here according to our guide. A snowy egret on the bank holds a flash of silvery fish at the tip of his beak, his black legs and bright yellow toes a vibrant contrast to his starkly white curl of a body. I anticipate that, like me, most of the wildlife will choose to shelter deep in the trees until the rains pass, but when we spy flocks of birds, they’re almost always outlined against the clouds on leafless branches, one breed with fabulously outstretched wings at rest, as if ready to take off and soar when they hear the call. I think I have a new animal spirit.” ~ Pamela Goode, Costa Rica Retreat 2013

NEED TO KNOW

Retreat has a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10. Please reserve early, but don’t make flight reservations until notified that we’ve met the minimum.
Participants will bring their own materials; details to follow. Packing Tips here.
Photos from our 2013 Retreat are here.

GOOD TO KNOW

Temperatures for January average High 73, Low 59, with .4″ of Rain
Central Standard Time
Volcano and Valley View, Observation Tower, Finca Luna Nueva, © Pam Goode

Latitude: 10° North of the equator, with equal hours of light and darkness
Currency: US dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere, including tips
Electricity: 110, with standard US plugs
Fast Facts: Literacy rate 96.3%; Military abolished in 1948
Costa Rica is among the countries with the highest amount of protected land in the world; 25% of the nation is dedicated to park systems, reserves, or natural wildlife areas
Bridging the northern and southern most points of the two American contents, Costa Rica is the meeting point for a variety of cultures and a density of plant and animal species said to be unlike any other country in the world
Approximately 850 bird species, 9000 plant species, 34,000 insect species, 205 mammalian species, 220 reptilian species, and 160 amphibian species

ABOUT THE LEADERS

Read more about Carol Shelkin here. Contact Carol here.
Read more about Pam Goode here. Contact Pam here.

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATIONS

Read more about Finca Luna Nueva here.

TO REGISTER

Contact Pam here for a reservation form.

Tags: Art Classes Abroad, Art Retreats, Art Tours, Art Travel, Art Workshops, Carol Shelkin, Carol Shelkin Mosaics, Carol Shelkin Workshops, Costa Rica, Costa Rica Travel, Cultural Travel, Educational Travel, Finca Luna Nueva, International Mosaic Workshops, Learning Adventures, Mosaic Art, Mosaic Classes Abroad, Mosaic Workshops, Mosaics in Costa Rica, Pam Goode, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Travel, Volunteer in Costa Rica

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Categories Art Retreats, Mosaic, Travel

Postcards Home, Small Mosaics with Pam Goode in Italy

20 May

Postcards Home, Small Mosaics with Pam Goode in Orvieto, Italy
May 22 – 28, 2016
$3,100, Double Occupancy

Morning in Orvieto, © Pam Goode

What’s better than a weeklong mosaic studio session in Italy? (I know, right?!) A week of mosaic sessions interspersed with vineyard visits, wine and olive oil tastings, an archaeological tour of ancient mosaics, Etruscan caves, a visit to the Duomo and her dazzling gold mosaics, and a cooking class? Yes!

In May I’ll be returning to heartbreakingly beautiful Orvieto, a hilltop village in Umbria built atop a warren of caves from the Etruscan era (800 – 400 BC). The pedestrian streets are cobbled and lined with artisans and cafes, iron lanterns and bountiful markets, with valley views never more than a stroll away.

Garden Benches, © Pam Goode

Valley View, © Pam Goode

Convent Garden, © Pam Goode

ACCOMMODATIONS

We’ll stay in the Institute San Ludovico Convent (pictured above), circa 300 – 400BC, which hugs the town wall presenting lovely views. Each room has its own bath. A library and beautiful gardens are available for us, as well as a colonnaded portico for lunches, sketching, or butterfly watching. Single, Double, and Twin rooms are available. Daily breakfast and some lunches are included. Photos of accommodations are here.

Cypress Trees in Orvieto, © Pam Goode

Cypress (After Van Gogh), © Pam Goode

Sunflowers in Italy, © Pam Goode

Workshop with Terrace

WORKSHOP

Our theme will be Postcards Home, small mosaics that will capture a detail of our travels, helping us reconnect to moments of discovery long after we return home. Some tools and materials will be provided, and a materials list will be included upon registration. Subjects and styles are up to you, though I’ll have some samples and designs available for use, as well as a bit of poetic inspiration. Alternately, you’re welcome to use this time as an Open Studio for your own projects; I’ll be available for consultation and/or assistance. Workshops and guided studio time will be morning or afternoon with cultural tours and free time rounding out the day. The studio will be open from early morning until late evening, and you’re welcome to work on your own before or after sessions. All levels, from never-touched-a-piece-of-glass to advanced, are welcome.

Orvieto Winery, © Pam Goode

Cooking Class, © Pam Goode

Christian Era Mosaics, Pam Goode

Wines Caves, © Pam Goode

CULTURAL TOURS

Learn how wine is made and what to look for in olive oils, savor local cheeses, whip yourself up some wild boar alla pappardelle, grab a rare view of a preserved Christian-era mosaic floor set a story beneath the current church, and sample a few of Italy’s finest wines. Now that’s what I call relaxing after a grueling day in the studio!

Medieval Section, © Pam Goode

Over the Walls, © Pam Goode

Orvieto Shop, © Pam Goode

Market Onions, © Pam Goode

Mosaic Columns, © Pam Goode

Orvieto Duomo, © Pam Goode

Bakery Pizzas, © Pam Goode

Dinner Together, © Ashley Hayward

Cafe, © Pam Goode

A WALK AROUND TOWN

There’s nothing quite like rounding a corner and getting that first In-Your-Face view of the Duomo, a 14th century Roman Catholic cathedral lined with gold mosaic (more here). Then again, there’s nothing quite like walking down to the village market early in the morning and ogling the artichokes for taste (and art) possibilities, then settling into the best morning cappuccino. Or sharing a simple and impossibly fresh just-picked/just-cooked meal with friends. Or wandering the narrow streets of the medieval section, where you can feel the life and stories resonating from each stone. Grabbing a handful of fresh flowers for your room and an Orvieto-made pottery pretty to stash them in. Clean, exhaust-free air and a quiet sun-bath on the ancient undulating walls of the town. Take me now! Click on the first photo above for a slideshow.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Pam Goode is a mosaic artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a creator of fine and functional art, installations, and community projects, she works with a variety of materials, including Italian and Mexican handmade glass, stained glass, porcelain, stone, and found objects. Known for her sense of whimsy and color, Pam’s mosaics transcend the subject at hand and go straight for the heart. “My goal is to bring a sense of joy, wonder, or peace to viewers. It isn’t enough for me to create a mosaic; I need to create a mosaic that sings, that resonates.” Her work has been selected for inclusion in Mosaic Arts International four times, and has appeared twice in Mosaic Art Now, a publication featuring mosaic art across the globe. With Lin Schorr as designer, she served as project manager for Unfurled, a collaborative installation featuring the work of 52 international artists.

Immersed in mosaics since 1999, Pam founded Ciel Gallery in 2008 in an effort to provide exhibition opportunities for mosaic artists across the globe. Now an art collective focusing on local artists working in every medium, Ciel continues to present juried exhibitions, classes, and special events.

An avid traveler, Pam is most inspired by being in unfamiliar surroundings where every sight, every thought, is new. “I see everything differently — feel everything differently — and the ability to communicate my own transformation though art thrills me.” In 2012 Pam founded Mosaic Art Retreats, offering international art tours and workshops. Pam has also been selected for an artist’s residency in Ireland for June, 2016.

Website. Contact.

ABOUT ADVENTURES IN ITALY

Adventures in Italy is the labor of love created by Kristin and Bill Steiner. They are Hosts Supreme, sharing joy and knowledge and comfort. You couldn’t be in better hands, and you will love them 🙂 Learn more here.

REGISTRATION

To register or for more information, please look here.

Tags: Adventures in Italy, Art Classes Abroad, Art Retreats, Art Tours, Art Travel, Art Workshops, Cultural Travel, Educational Travel, International Mosaic Workshops, Italy, Italy Travel, Learning Adventures, Mosaic Art, Mosaic Art Retreats, Mosaic Classes, Mosaic Classes Abroad, Mosaic Classes in Italy, Mosaic Workshops, Mosaics Abroad, Mosaics in Orvieto, Orvieto, Pam Goode, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Travel

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Categories Art Retreats, Mosaic, Travel

October in Paris + Provence with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode

30 Oct

October in Paris + Provence
with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode
October 4 – 17, 2015 (5 Days Paris; 7 Days Provence)
$3186 Double Occupancy
$3686 Single Occupancy Paris

Paris Only, October 4 – 9, 2015
$1902 Double Occupancy
$2402 Single Occupancy

Provence Only
October 10 – 17, 2015
$1784 Double Occupancy

Whatta lotta Ooh-La-La! Join Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode on a fall whirl through The City of Light AND the land whose light has drawn artists through the ages: Provence.

We’ll start in Paris, soaking up this vibrant city whose history spans more than 10,000 years. We’ll strike a balance between group activities and on-your-own time so that each participant can follow their own passions. Our hotel is located on the Seine, with views of both river and Notre Dame, and fresh croissants only steps away. An introductory walking tour will acquaint us with the major sites and thoroughfares, and give you the steps to over 60 museums you’ll be able to visit free of charge during your stay.

We’ll include a tour through the major mosaic sites of Paris, including Nureyev’s fabulous tomb, and travel by train to Chartres and Raymond Isidore’s Picassiette House. We’ll watch the Eiffel Tower light in the evening, wander Paris gardens, cruise the Seine, picnic on market finds, meet Parisian artists, and tour artsy Montmartre cafes and haunts.

A special highlight of this trip will be the opportunity to create our own mural in a combination of paint and mosaic. We’ll be famous in France!

After five fabulous days of chic, we’ll board the express train to Avignon, grab a couple of cars, and head deep into the Luberon Valley — land of sumptuous markets and wines, perched villages, stone farmhouses, lavender, olives, ochre-tinted hills, hikes, and food, food, food. We’ll wind or way through multiple picture-perfect settings all 15 – 20 minutes from our own farmhouse, grab olives and tomatoes and pasta and whip up fresh meals under the trees, and traipse along the Sorgue, a gorgeously-green river colored by thousands of waving aquatic plants. Back home, we’ll talk about art and color, and sketch a bit. You’re more than welcome to bring photos of projects for any guidance that might be helpful.

NEED TO KNOW

This art tour is open to artists and non-artists. All participants may join in as many or as few of the scheduled activities as desired, but there will be no refund for skipped activities.
You may select the full Paris/Provence tour, or you may choose only Paris or only Provence. Prices are listed at the top of the page.
If you need to leave sooner than the full 13 days, we’ll arrange for early airport transportation. Prices are based on a stay of 11 days. If you elect to stay for the full 13, you get two days free. There is no refund for those who leave earlier than the 13 days scheduled.

ITINERARY: PARIS

Sunday, October 4: Flights to Paris
Monday, October 5: Settle into Hotel, Guided Walking Tour of Major Paris Sites, Eiffel Tower
Tuesday, October 6: Museum Visits, Mosaic Tour of Paris, Paris Gardens, Evening Tour of Montmartre
Wednesday, October 7: Mural Painting/Installation, Coffee with Local Artists, Evening Cruise on the Seine
Thursday, October 8: Rudolph Nureyev’s Tomb, Chartres, Maison Picassiette, Museum Visits
Friday, October 9: Museum Visits and Paris Secrets
Saturday, October 10: Departure

ITINERARY: PROVENCE

Saturday, October 10: High Speed Train from Paris to Avignon, Transfer to Accommodations, Village Explorations
Sunday, October 11: Antiquing and River-Walking, Isle sur la Sorgue; Light Exercises
Monday, October 12: Explore Rousillon, Tour Ochre Factory, Hiking; Color Exercises
Tuesday, October 13: Market Day in Gordes and Village Photography, Possible Cooking Class
Wednesday, October 14: Explore Lacoste, Art & Design College, Dinner in Menerbes (A Year in Provence)
Thursday, October 15: Explore Oppede-le-Vieux, Easy Hiking Trails
Friday, October 16: Early Departure

INCLUDED PARIS

Airport Transfer to Hotel
5 Nights Double Occupancy in a Luxury Hotel on the Seine (Single Supplement Available)
4-Day Museum Pass with free unlimited admission to 60 museums, including Versailles, with no waiting in lines
Welcome Package with Packing Lists, Tips, and a Fold-out Map
5-Day Metro Pass, Zones 1 – 3
Guided Walking Tour of Major Paris Sites
Mosaic Tour of Paris
Visit to Rudolph Nureyev’s Mosaic Carpet Tomb
Visit to Chartres
Visit to Maison Picassiette
Cafe and Croissants with French Mosaic Artists
Creation of our own Paris Mural, using Paint and Mosaic!
Guided Evening Tour of Artsy Montmartre
Cruise along the Seine
Visit through Paris Gardens
Secret Paris Treats

INCLUDED PROVENCE

Transfer from Paris to the Spectacular Luberon Valley via TGV Train (2 hours, 44 minutes)
Use of two 6-passenger vans
7 Nights Double Occupancy in a traditional Mas (Provencal Farmhouse)
Market Day Visits to Beautiful Perched Villages of Gourdes, Lacoste, Menerbes (A Year in Provence), and Bonnieux
Visit to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a village-wide antiques market straddling the green waters of the Sorgue
Visit to the Ochre cliffs of Rousillion, with a tour of the Ochre Factory
Multiple Opportunities for Hiking/Horseback Riding
Departure via Marseilles Airport

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare
Meals
Personal Expenses
Travel Insurance (learn more here)

ABOUT THE LEADERS

Carol and Pam have been organizing and leading trips abroad since 1999. Both are internationally recognized mosaic artists teaching weekly. Pam is fluent in French; both are travel-savvy, easy-going, and love taking on the world.

Read more about Carol here or on Facebook here.

Read more about Pam here or follow her on Facebook here.

For more eye candy, follow Pam’s Paris Pinterest Board here and the Provence Board here.

TO RESERVE A SPACE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please email Pam with questions or to receive a registration form via email. A deposit of 50% is required to reserve space; tour balance will be due no later than July 15, 2015. Cancellation policy will be outlined on the registration form.

Tags: Art Travel, Carol Shelkin, Carol Shelkin Workshops, France Mosaics, France Travel, Gordes, International Art Travel, Luberon Valley, Mosaic Art Retreats, Mosaic Art Tours, Mosaic Workshops, Mosaics Abroad, Mosaics in France, Pam Goode, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Paris Travel, Provence Travel

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Categories Art, Art Retreats, Mosaic, Travel

Mosaics on the Marsh, Pawleys Island SC with Pam Goode

15 Jul

Mosaics on the Marsh with Pam Goode
Pawleys Island, SC
October 4 – 11, 2014
$375-550

Nothing soothes the soul quite like the lapping of tides against weathered docks, the tempered sunlight glinting across fields of watery grasses that thrive on the most tentative silts, the cry of majestic herons and hungry gulls, and a gentle fall breeze. Join us at iconic Pawleys Island for an old-style retreat in old-style surroundings.

Our site will be a three-story “cottage” with double wraparound porches and ample work tables facing the marsh. The golden month of October features magnificent skies and a softer light, with average highs in the 70’s and lows around 60. Nine bedrooms, five baths, two living rooms, two kitchens, and indoor/outdoor dining areas offer plenty of space for spreading out or working as a group.

Our workshop will consist of a quick-sketch technique overlaid with a modified-watercolor technique to create designs using fauvist or realistic colors depicting life on the marsh. We’ll churn out an array of sketches, paintings and photographs the first day, giving you ample possibilities for your mosaic. We’ll also talk about color, mood, cutting methods, and finding your own style. If you prefer, you’re more than welcome to use the space to work on your own projects in any medium.

An assortment of boards will be provided. This retreat is designed for stained glass, however, you are welcome to bring other materials if you prefer.

The retreat will be structured loosely, with a group session each day, as well as one-on-one time with the instructor and group studio sessions. You are welcome to work throughout the day or take time off for local exploration. The wide sand beach is just across the lane, and the island is ideal for biking, as well as canoeing on the inlet. Across the bridge on the mainland, you’ll find plenty of cute shops as well as local restaurants (both island casual and casual gourmet). Meals will be on your own or as a group, either on the mainland or self-catering. We’ll have plenty of kitchen space!

A barrier island, Pawleys is one of the oldest resorts on the East Coast, measuring just over 3 miles long and 1/4 mile wide, and a whopping population of 138. Flip flops and shorts are the norm.

An optional sidetrip to Pearl Friar’s Topiary Gardens in Bishopville, SC is available for those caravanning for the return to Charlotte is available on Saturday, October 11

Costs per-person for five-day mosaic workshop and accommodations:

$375 shared dormitory room (1 double and 5 twins)
$475 shared room (2 twin beds) (1 available)
$500 shared room (1 queen and 1 double bed) (1 available)
$550 single room (1 double or queen bed) (4 queens and 1 double available)

Cost for non-participating guest sharing your room: $250

Room selection is first come, first served with full payment.

Cost Includes:

7 Nights Accommodation
Mosaic Instruction and/or Retreat Workspace
Substrates, Use of Tools, and Adhesives

Not Included:

Transportation to the Retreat Location
Meals
Glass

More information about Pam is available here or here. For more information or to register, contact Pam.

Tags: Art Classes Abroad, Art Travel, Beach Retreat, Cultural Travel, Mosaic Art Retreats, Mosaic Art Workshops, Pam Goode Mosaic Workshops, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Pawleys Island, Pawleys Island Art, South Carolina Art

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Categories Art Retreats, Art Workshop

Mosaics on the Marsh, October 2013

23 Jul

Mosaics on the Marsh Retreat with Pam Goode
October 21 – 25, 2013
Pawleys Island, SC
$375 – 550

Our workshop will consist of a quick-sketch technique overlaid with a modified-watercolor technique to create designs using fauvist or realistic colors depicting life on the marsh. We’ll be able to churn out a large assortment of sketches and paintings the first day, giving you ample possibilities for your mosaic. We’ll also talk about color, mood, cutting methods, and finding your own style.

An assortment of boards will be provided. This retreat is designed for stained glass, however, you are welcome to bring other materials if you prefer.

The retreat will be structured loosely, with a group session each day, as well as one-on-one time with the instructor and group studio sessions. You are welcome to work throughout the day or take time off for the beach or local exploration. The lovely sand beach is just across the lane, and the island is ideal for biking, as well as canoeing on the inlet. Across the bridge on the mainland, you’ll find plenty of cute shops as well as local restaurants (both island casual and casual gourmet). Meals will be on your own or as a group, either on the mainland or self-catering. We’ll have plenty of kitchen space!

A barrier island, Pawleys is one of the oldest resorts on the East Coast, measuring just over 3 miles long and 1/4 mile wide, and a whopping population of 138. Flip flops and shorts are the norm.

Costs per-person for five-day mosaic workshop and accommodations:

$375 shared dormitory room (1 double and 5 twins)
$475 shared room (2 twin beds) (1 available)
$500 shared room (2 double beds) (1 available)
$550 single room (1 double or queen bed) (4 queens and 1 double available)

Cost for non-participating guest sharing your room: $250

Cost includes room, instruction, and some materials. Cost does not include transportation to the retreat location, meals, tools or mosaic supplies.

For more information or to register, contact Pam.

Tags: Art, Art Travel, Ciel Gallery, Cultural Travel, Educational Travel, Mosaic, Mosaic Art, Mosaic Art Retreat, Mosaic Workshop, Pam Goode, Pamela Goode Mosaics, Pawleys Island South Carolina, Stained Glass Mosaics, Stained Glass Workshop

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Categories Art Workshop, Travel

Italy Anyone? May 2013

29 Nov

Eye candy for the soul! Inspiration for the artist.

If you see anything you like, I’ll be leading a mosaic workshop / retreat to Italy May 12 – 18, 2013. Drink in the beauty of old walls and endless vistas, then learn how to translate your photographs into strong mosaic designs. We’ll be working small, so there will be plenty of time to soak up culture, feed the spirit, and try out a new way of being. More information here. More motivation below.

Click on the first photo to enlarge, and then browse your way through a few of my past trips to beautiful Italy. Hope you’ll join me in May!