My First Watercolor Retreat in France: A Dream Come True
- Matt Lefebvre
- May 16
- 5 min read
As an artist, the opportunity to attend a watercolor retreat in the picturesque countryside of France was a dream come true. When I was invited to host my own retreat with Uptrack, I jumped at the chance, eager to share my passion for the medium and connect with fellow creatives in an inspiring setting. From the moment I stepped foot on the grounds of the stunning chateau, I knew this experience would be truly unforgettable.
Assembling the Perfect Retreat Team
Before I could embark on this artistic adventure, I had to assemble the right team to join me. I brought along my best friend Janelle, who is also a content creator, to serve as my assistant. Her expertise in vlogging and capturing behind-the-scenes footage proved invaluable throughout the retreat. Additionally, I was thrilled that my mom decided to attend as one of the retreat participants - it was the perfect opportunity for us to experience France together for the first time.
The three of us set off to France in mid-April, taking a flight from Toronto to Paris with a layover before continuing on to Toulouse. While the lengthy travel day was a bit grueling, the anticipation of what was to come kept our spirits high. Once we arrived in Toulouse, we had a day to explore the charming city before making our way to the retreat venue.
Discovering the Stunning Retreat Venue
As we approached the retreat location, I was immediately awestruck by the breathtaking grounds. The chateau, owned by a lovely couple who hosted our group, was a stunning historical building that had been beautifully restored and modernized. The main building, with its old-world charm, housed the guest rooms, while a separate structure served as the art studio - a light-filled space with panoramic views of the rolling hills and a sparkling pool.
My friend Janelle, who had brought a drone, captured some incredible aerial footage of the property, allowing me to truly appreciate the grandeur of the setting. I felt like a princess as I settled into my luxurious accommodations, eager to welcome the other retreat participants and dive into the creative experience.
Welcoming the Retreat Participants
When the 15 other women arrived, I was thrilled to see the diverse range of skill levels and backgrounds represented. Some were seasoned watercolor artists, while others were brand new to the medium. Regardless of their experience, everyone shared a genuine passion for painting and a willingness to learn from one another.
To help everyone feel prepared and inspired, I had put together personalized art kits for each participant, complete with professional-grade watercolor paints, brushes, sketchbooks, and other essential supplies. As we gathered for our welcome toast, the excitement in the air was palpable, and I knew this was going to be an unforgettable experience.
Indulging in Gourmet Meals and Camaraderie
One of the standout aspects of the retreat was the exceptional cuisine. The hosts had arranged for a private chef to prepare our meals, and let me tell you, the food was nothing short of extraordinary. From the freshly baked croissants and artisanal breads at breakfast to the multi-course gourmet dinners, every bite was a culinary delight.
Throughout the day, the hosts would surprise us with delectable canapés and appetizers, ensuring we were never left hungry. The communal dining experience fostered a sense of camaraderie, as we shared stories, laughed, and savored the flavors of France together. Even as someone who doesn't typically indulge in alcohol, I found myself enjoying the complimentary wine that was served at dinner, as it perfectly complemented the exquisite meals.
Immersing Ourselves in the Creative Process
Of course, the heart of the retreat was the art-making itself. Each day, we had dedicated studio time, where I led group lessons and provided individualized guidance to help the participants refine their watercolor techniques. Whether it was mastering basic strokes, exploring color theory, or painting lush floral compositions, everyone was eager to learn and grow.
What I loved most was the open-ended nature of the instruction. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, I tailored the lessons to the specific needs and interests of the group. Some participants wanted to focus on landscapes, while others were eager to learn how to paint a croissant or capture the intricate details of wisteria. By catering to the diverse skill levels and artistic goals, everyone felt empowered to explore and experiment.
In between the structured studio sessions, the participants had the freedom to work on their own projects, often staying late into the evening to immerse themselves in the creative process. The camaraderie and mutual support were truly inspiring, as we celebrated each other's successes and offered encouragement along the way.
Exploring the Surrounding Countryside
While the retreat itself was a remarkable experience, we also had the opportunity to venture out and explore the stunning French countryside. One of the highlights was our visit to a local vineyard, where we learned about the history of the estate and indulged in a wine tasting. The serene setting, with its 16th-century castle and lush vineyards, provided the perfect backdrop for our artistic endeavors, and Janelle's drone footage captured the beauty of the scene.
Another memorable excursion was our trip to a French garden, surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery. We spent the afternoon wandering the grounds, snapping reference photos, and finding inspiration for our paintings. The combination of plein air painting and the breathtaking natural scenery was truly invigorating.
Our final outing took us to the charming town of Albi, where we visited the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum and explored the quaint streets, popping into local shops and cafes. It was a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture and history, and I couldn't resist indulging in a few artist-themed souvenirs, including a delightful salt shaker in the shape of a paint tube!
Celebrating Our Artistic Achievements
As the retreat drew to a close, we gathered for a special art exhibition, proudly displaying the paintings we had created throughout the week. It was a joyous celebration of our collective artistic journey, and I was in awe of the stunning works that had been produced. From the seasoned artists to the complete beginners, each piece reflected the unique style and vision of its creator.
The retreat hosts were incredibly gracious, and we presented them with a special gift as a token of our appreciation. In return, one of the participants presented me with a beautiful sketchbook, signed by the entire group, that I will cherish forever. It was a heartwarming moment that encapsulated the sense of community and camaraderie that had blossomed over the course of the retreat.
Lasting Connections and Future Retreats
As we said our goodbyes and headed our separate ways, I was filled with a deep sense of gratitude and fulfillment. Not only had I had the opportunity to share my passion for watercolor with a wonderful group of artists, but I had also forged meaningful connections that I know will last long after the retreat ended.
In fact, the retreat was such a success that I immediately sold out my upcoming watercolor retreat in Spain, and I'm already planning for next year's France retreat. I can't wait to welcome a new group of creatives to this stunning setting, where they can immerse themselves in the joy of painting, indulge in the culinary delights of France, and forge lifelong friendships.
If you've been considering attending a watercolor retreat, I encourage you to take the leap. It's an experience that will not only nourish your artistic soul but also provide you with memories and connections that will stay with you long after the brushes have been put away. Who knows, maybe I'll see you at my next retreat in France!
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