About this trip
We will be embracing the beautiful change of season in picturesque Glastonbury, Ct. at The Connecticut River Valley Inn and Artists Rising Creativity Retreats. Join us for 5 days of artful nourishment, chef prepared meals on our beautiful historic property in the historic town of Glastonbury, CT with direct river access. Guests will have 24/7 access to the studio and the grounds, with opportunities to kayak, bike, paddleboards and add-on excursions. Enjoy unlimited laughter and friendship with kindred spirits while we learn The Vibrant & Colorful Painter from Donna Downey.
The Vibrant & Colorful Painter
Flowers! Honestly when I paint flowers I feel empowered. They can be any shape, size, color,
abstract or simple. However, the true magic of painting flowers happens when the artist
embraces the simple techniques I will share with you in this course.
Like abstract art, I believe we emote as floral painters by the brush marks and the intensity of
color we leave on the canvas. I will teach you how to make the painted marks emerge as bold
blooms, the layered strokes become simplified petals and the apply color to create vibrations of
energy that reach beyond the surface and differentiate your work from the ordinary.
I will guide you to paint freer and more confidently as color, composition and form transform into fluid movement across your canvas.
About Donna Downey
I consider myself to be on a creative journey that continues to surprise me every time I step in front of my canvas. My paintings continue to evolve in style and technique, but one thing stays constant: I am in love with painting the human figure. I use unfinished lines and painterly strokes to express the emotional vulnerability of human existence in everyday life. The impermanence and fragility of life is the essential focus of my work.
I love to experiment with either a monochromatic palette or an explosion of vibrant colors, depending on my mood. The process of applying paint to canvas is an emotional experience for me and I even find it a bit sexy. Exploring the use of shadow and light as a push and pull of interest for the viewer is a constant theme in my art. I often start each painting with a simple concept or idea in mind then I start placing color throughout the canvas, letting the colors intuitively reveal the composition. The paintings develop in response to the energy created between myself and the paint. I use painting as a meditation and I deeply enjoy the never ending challenge to evoke a particular mood or emotion for the viewer.
What’s included
- Workshop Tuition
- Guest RoomsGuest room ammenities include Towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, hair dryers, in room coffeemaker, mini fridge, t.v., internet, lap desks, yoga mats
- Welcome ReceptionLight appetizers and refreshments
- All Meals and SnacksIncludes 4 nights of dinner, lunch and breakfast, daily snack breaks, unlimited coffee, tea & seltzer
- Art SuppliesIf art supplies are included in the price of the retreat, it will show in the description.
- TransportationTaxis and rental cars available at airport
- Optional ExcusionsSee below for fun and inspiring add-on excursions
- Art SuppliesYour instructor will reach out with details on needed materials and supplies. if they are NOT included in the retreat price (under room pricing)
- Travel Insurance
Available Packages
A room all to myself! Your room may include a shared bathroom and you may be assigned to a room in our Main property or at our Sister Farmhouse.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Single Room Retreat Fee $2295
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $253
Supplies fee
(this goes directly to instructor) $100
TOTAL Retreat Fee $2648
If you want to save $100 by prepaying in full at time of registration please add code "save100" in the discount window at checkout.
Price is per person. Double Occupancy. Our rooms are @325sf, you each have your own "sleeping nook" with fun and cozy privacy curtains and your own closet for personal items.
We assign all students to rooms based on giving everyone a great space. You may be assigned to a room in our Main property or at our Sister Farmhouse. Our sister Farmhouse has 3 private rooms with shared bathroom and kitchen/living/dining area.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Single Room Retreat Fee $1950
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $215
Supplies fee
(this goes directly to instructor) $100
TOTAL Retreat Fee $2265
If you want to save $100 by prepaying in full at time of registration please add code "save100" in the discount window at checkout.
For participants who don't need overnight lodging. Price is per person and includes lunch only. Doesn't include 24/7 after hours studio use after end of workshop.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 6.45%.
Here is the breakdown:
Single Room Retreat Fee $895
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $58
Supplies fee
(this goes directly to instructor) $100
TOTAL Retreat Fee $1053
There are no prepay discounts for the Day Student rate
Do you have a loved one who you want to join you but WILL NOT be taking any classes? Use this add-on. This fee includes everything that the full rate includes EXCEPT for the classroom time.
This fee INCLUDES State of Ct Room Occupancy/Sales Tax of 11%.
Here is the breakdown:
Extra Guest $1200
Accommodation/Sales Tax 11% $132
TOTAL Retreat Fee $1332
There are no pre-pay discounts for this choice
Available options
Itinerary
5pm Welcome Reception - meet your fellow students reception with appetizers and refreshments.
Room check ins begin at 3pm