# Exploring the Gestural Figure and the Essential Still Life Retreat with Artist Wendy Artin in Portugal

Embark on an inspiring watercolor painting retreat with artist Wendy Artin on the sunny coast of southern Portugal.Spend a wonderful week painting watercolors of the live figure model and fresh local fruit and vegetables. Learn techniques for making fast and fluid monochromatic watercolors of our beautiful Roman model Laura, with poses ranging from 30 seconds to 20 minutes. Examine the finer details of nature, form, light and color in fresh local produce to paint simple essential colorful still lifes. Individual instruction will be given to each student, to brush control, wetness, and use of the paper. All levels of experience are welcome.Complement your art classes with exciting trips: a boat ride through the hidden grottoes of Algarve and a visit to the historic town of Lagos. Get inspired by the crystalline waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the cobblestone streets of Lagos. Stay at a beautiful Portuguese Quinta, nestled along the sun-drenched Algarve coast. Enjoy elegant accommodation and modern amenities blended with Portuguese charm, such as lush gardens, a refreshing swimming pool, a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin, and a sauna. Soak in the sweeping views of the endless ocean, indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals, and connect with other 15 fellow artists!

## Details

- **Dates:** September 15 - 22, 2026
- **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
- **Starting Price:** $4,750
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Wendy ArtinBeautiful Portuguese-tiled Shala art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, field easels, professional studio lighting, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, and glass jarsFresh vegetables, plants, and a live figure model are provided for the workshop component Exclusive use of the entire property with living quarters, Shala art studio, 2.5 acres of botanical gardens, terraces, swimming pool, and common areasAll meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chefAll diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-freeDelicious local wine served during dinner serviceSnacks, coffee, tea, and infused water available throughout the dayHalf-day boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve on a traditional Portuguese sailing boatHalf-day art trip to the Lagos historic town, with opportunities for painting and sketching on-locationWalking tour with time for shopping and a visit to the beach during the trip to Lagos Private transportation for all planned activitiesRound-trip transfers from/to Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged timesExperienced retreat admin and UpTrek host available throughout the weekFully staffed venue, with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff on-location All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Wendy Artin and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt materials — a list of art materials recommended by artist Wendy Artin will be provided five months before the retreat takes placeTips for staff — tipping is customary in PortugalOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Exploring the Gestural Figure and the Essential Still Life
Join artist Wendy Artin on an inspiring watercolor painting retreat, exploring figure drawing and still life through playful exercises, demonstrations led by Wendy, and studio time on the beautiful sun-drenched coast of southern Portugal. Surrounded by spectacular views, mesmerizing seascapes, and vibrant nature, enjoy an inspiring watercolor painting retreat with artist Wendy Artin on the sunny coast of southern Portugal. Explore figure drawing and still life in daily watercolor classes led by Wendy, learning techniques for blending, handling watercolor wetness, brushstrokes, and edge control. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience.Under Wendy’s gentle guidance, enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of watercolors: Paint the live model using monochromatic watercolor in order to quickly capture light and form, with particular attention to mark making, edge control, and brush control. Revel in the finer details of nature, painting still life watercolors of local fruits and vegetables from the farmer’s market, exploring wet washes, color, light, and form. Improve your seeing and your hand with an immersive week of painting.Some of the topics covered in your classes with Wendy include: Capturing light, form, and shadow shapes in gestural watercolor painting Handling of wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniquesExploring techniques for blending Discovering the beauty and uniqueness of watercolors Learning techniques for confident brushwork, fluid washes, and edge control Capturing the beauty of form, color, and the expression of the human figureUsing preparatory sketches constructively Exploring color mixing, composition, and cropping techniquesExploring different types of watercolor Learning where to focus in a compositionImprove your seeing and mark-making Finding your own individual taste and touch …and many more! Your home for the week will be a charming Portuguese villa, nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, offering elegant accommodation, lush gardens, a refreshing pool and a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin and sauna, and sweeping views of Lagos and the endless ocean. Indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals featuring regional Portuguese cuisine and connect with a group of 15 other like-minded creatives!

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Faro Airport and board the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat with artist Wendy Artin.Once you’ve reached the villa, settle into your comfortable room, and take a moment to unwind. Later in the afternoon, join Wendy and your fellow artists for an orientation tour of the grounds. Wander through the beautiful gardens, visit the light-filled art studio, stroll along the shaded terraces, and take in the calm atmosphere around the pool.As the sun begins to set, gather for a relaxed welcome dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of local fine wine.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a quick check-in with the venue hosts. Ease into the gentle rhythm of the day and join Wendy and your fellow artists in the sunlit Shala art studio, diving into the first full day of creation at the retreat.The morning workshop will begin with an introduction to Wendy’s method and way of working, explaining her teaching style and showing you a variety of her artworks. Engage in fun and playful warm-up exercises on handling monochromatic watercolor and figure drawing exercises, focusing on brush handling and mark-making. You will spend 1 to 1.5 hours of the workshop practicing quick poses and gesture drawings from a live model. Pause midday for a refreshing lunch, then continue the day with another studio session in the afternoon. This session will introduce you to Wendy’s approach to painting still life. Explore shapes, colors, light, and compositional possibilities with preparatory sketches.As the class comes to an end, take some time to relax and reset before dinner. Join Wendy and the group for a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fragrant local wine. Toast to the first full day on the retreat, share reflections, and soak in the warm atmosphere filled with laughter and lively conversation.

### Day 3: Boat trip through the Grottoes of Algarve
Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. After you’ve had your fill, prepare for the first trip of the retreat: an exciting sailing adventure across the Algarve coastline. Step onto a traditional Portuguese boat from the Lagos Marina, then set sail across the rolling waves. Spend the morning exploring hidden grottoes, secret beaches, and stunning rock formations that dot the shoreline. Remember to snap a few photos of the gorgeous seascapes you’ll encounter. Experiment with the composition of your photos or sketch right on the boat if you don't mind the wobble. Enjoy the breeze in your hair and go for a dip in the ocean if the weather's favorable.As the trip comes to an end, return to the venue for a relaxed lunch, then continue the day back in the art studio. This afternoon session will be focused on monochromatic figure drawing. This afternoon session will be focused on monochromatic figure painting. Capture gestures and shadows in a series of poses ranging from 30 seconds to 20 minutes. Work on seeing and capturing shadow shapes.Take some spare time to unwind in the late afternoon. Gather with Wendy and your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of aromatic Portuguese wine. Share reflections of the adventure you went on today and connect over stories, laughter, and inspiration.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Begin the day with a refreshing breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, followed by a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts. Join Wendy and your fellow artists in the spacious Shala studio, preparing for another day full of creativity and inspiration. The morning workshop will be focused on monochromatic figure drawing using a live model. The first half of the session will be the same as the prior day, with focus on mark-making, shadow shapes, and edge control: in the second half Wendy will introduce you to working wet-in-wet on Rives BFK paper with a demo and then time to try it yourselves. Take a break for lunch and enjoy a nourishing meal, then return to the studio for another afternoon art session. This class will be focused on still life, progressing from preparatory sketches to larger watercolor pieces. Experiment with the wet-on-wet techniques that you learned the previous day, and discuss how the color moves and blends in your artwork, as well as when to stop. As the class comes to a close, take some leisure time to relax and reset in the late afternoon. Gather with Wendy and the group for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of delicious Portuguese wine. As the middle of the retreat has approached, reflect on your creative journey so far, celebrating your accomplishments and artistic discoveries.

### Day 5: Art trip to Lagos
Wake up your senses with a delightful breakfast and a refreshing cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Then, get ready for the second trip of the retreat: a visit to the historic town of Lagos. Located only a 10-minute drive away from the venue, the road will take you through the sun-drenched Portuguese countryside, past rolling hills, open fields, and endless blue skies. Once in Lagos, take part in a walking tour of this beautiful town full of stories held in tiled walls, fishing boats, and cobblestone streets. Stop to sketch if you feel inspired, take some reference photos, or simply explore the Portuguese-tiled buildings, vibrant shops, and historical landmarks. You will have plenty of time to do some shopping, in case you want to bring a souvenir back with you, as well as time for a visit to a nearby beach. Return to the venue for a leisurely lunch, then continue the day with an afternoon art class. This session will be focused on composing multiples in a still life scene. Learn how to arrange several objects together in a composition, paying attention to how they interact visually through placement, balance, proportion, and color. Create a still life watercolor piece, practicing your composition skills and wet-on-wet painting techniques. As the class ends, take some time to relax and unwind before dinner. Join Wendy and your fellow artists for a chef-prepared three-course dinner accompanied by a glass of fine local wine. Enjoy the lovely atmosphere and share reflections of the day with your fellow creatives.

### Day 6: Art classes at the venue
Fuel up with a delicious breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, then have a quick morning check-in with the venue hosts before jumping into the first art workshop of the day. You will spend the morning together with Wendy and your fellow artists working on your monochromatic figure drawing skills. Practice sketching poses from a live model ranging from 30 seconds to 20 minutes, experimenting with both wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry painting techniques. Strengthen your brush control, edge, and mark-making as you capture the gestures and subtle shadows of the live model. Pause midday for a leisurely lunch, then continue the day with another class in the sunlit Shala studio. In the afternoon, the focus will be on still-life compositions and cropping. Pay attention to how the objects are arranged within your frame, and learn how to decide what part of the scene to include or exclude, creating a dynamic and visually impactful still-life piece. In the late afternoon, take some time for yourself to rest and unwind before dinner. Join Wendy and the group for a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of fragrant Portuguese wine. Make conversation with your fellow artists, share impressions of the day, and enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
Start the final full day at the retreat with a filling breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, followed by a brief morning check-in with the venue hosts. Ease into the gentle rhythm of the day, allowing the wave of creativity to sweep you off your feet. Join Wendy and your fellow artists in the spacious Shala art studio for a final monochromatic figure drawing workshop. Continue practicing your wet-on-wet as well as your wet-on-dry painting techniques, drawing poses from the live model ranging from 30 seconds to 20 minutes. Recap everything that you have learned throughout the retreat and integrate your new skills into your personal artistic practice.Take a break for lunch and enjoy a refreshing meal. Then, gather with Wendy and the group in the studio one last time for a celebratory mini-exhibition, showcasing your artworks and your creative journey throughout the retreat. Exchange feedback, ideas, and insights with your fellow artists, and celebrate together how far you have come! As the afternoon comes to an end, enjoy some spare time to relax and reset before dinner. Indulge in a delicious three-course farewell dinner prepared by the in-house chef and accompanied by a glass of aromatic Portuguese wine. Raise a glass to the end of this transformative experience, and take home with you a heart full of inspiration and cherished memories.

### Day 8: Departure
Share one final breakfast with Wendy and your fellow artists and exchange any last contact details before getting ready for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO).Please note that check-out is at 10:00 AM. You will arrive at the airport at around 11:00 AM.

## Instructors

- [Wendy Artin](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/wendy-artin) — Acclaimed watercolor painter

## Accommodation

### Charming Portuguese Quinta
Nestled along the sun-soaked Algarve coast, your venue is a chic Portuguese Quinta, perfect for an unforgettable art retreat with Wendy Artin. Praised by The Times and Life Magazine as "a jewel of the Algarve," this private estate combines natural beauty with modern comforts. Set atop a hill, it offers sweeping views of Lagos, the marina, and the endless ocean.At the heart of the estate lies a delightful Italian-inspired garden, featuring over 1,500 plant species, a refreshing pool and a hot tub, a relaxing massage cabin and sauna, elegant statues, and tranquil fountains, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and creative inspiration. The venue's terraces and rooms blend modern amenities with timeless charm, offering a cozy retreat. Accommodations are situated within the main villa and a serene cottage, with each room featuring a private balcony or patio, en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating, plush bathrobes, and high-quality Portuguese Castelbel toiletries.Your classes with Wendy will take place either in the lush garden or in the dedicated Shala art studio, which showcases beautiful Portuguese tiles, ample natural light, cork-insulated floors, air conditioning, and expansive garden views.Please be aware that moving between the accommodation areas, main dining area, and art studio requires a short walk. Some rooms are only accessible via stairs, therefore the venue may not be suitable for people with low or limited mobility.

### Shared triple ensuite room (female only)
One shared triple ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. This spacious room and its private ensuite bathroom will be shared between three same-gender participants.The room features three comfortable single beds and has access to a private bathroom with two sinks, a walk-in shower, and a deep bathtub. Additionally, the room has block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep. This dramatic silver, white, and black themed room enjoys a large terrace above the ponds looking out South West towards the bay of Praia da Luz. Open the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and enjoy the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.

### Shared standard ensuite room
Two standard ensuite rooms are available for shared occupancy. Each room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.Located on the north side of the house, the shared standard rooms offer a tranquil space of peace and relaxation. With block-out electric blinds to ensure a deep night's sleep and comfortable twin beds, each room also features access to a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, shower seat, and a separate hand shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private terrace with a table and chairs where you can enjoy the last rays of the evening sun.

### Shared superior room - garden view
One superior room with garden view is available for shared occupancy. This garden view room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.This cozy room has the largest terrace on the property, looking towards the Italian garden, Zen garden, and art studio, and enjoys a gorgeous yellow glow when the rising sun shines through the South-East windows. If you prefer to sleep in, the room also has block-out electric blinds that completely cover the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. It features comfortable twin beds, a mini-fridge, and access to a private bathroom with a large walk-in rain shower, equipped with a shower seat and a separate hand shower as well.

### Shared superior room - sea view
Three superior rooms with sea view are available for shared occupancy. Each sea view room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.The rooms feature comfortable twin beds, block-out electric blinds for the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and private ensuite bathrooms with deep bathtubs and showers. The rooms also have access to private balconies or terraces with gorgeous sea views, equipped with sun beds, tables, and chairs. The rooms benefit from 180-degree sea and country views from the balconies and terraces spanning Lagos to Luz.

### Single deluxe master suite - sea view
One deluxe master suite with sea view is available for single occupancy. This private, comfortable room has a fresh and airy feel to it, using the classic Portuguese colors of white and blue.The room enjoys a Balinese-style four-poster bed, a separate lounge area, a mini-fridge, and a spacious bathroom with a spa bath and separate walk-in shower. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open out onto a private bougainvillea-edged balcony with sea views, sun bed, table, and chairs. Block-out curtains can be used to ensure a deep night's sleep.

## Food

The Algarve region promises a complete culinary experience, offering an array of exquisite flavors. During your art retreat with Wendy Artin, a private chef will prepare daily meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients or produce from the venue's gardens. Each dish provides a delicious exploration of Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisines.Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast spread, featuring oatmeal, fresh fruits, warm pastries, local hams, and perfectly prepared eggs. For lunch, enjoy light yet satisfying dishes like orzo salad, Moroccan bowls, or a classic tuna Niçoise.In the evenings, savor a comforting dinner crafted by the chef, with options such as Piri Piri prawns, zesty citrus salmon, or a creamy Brazilian coconut stew. End your dining experience with delectable desserts like cakes, tarts, and mousses, complemented by fragrant local wines.All meals are included, and dinners are paired with specially selected wines. Throughout the day, you'll have access to refreshments such as water, coffee, tea, and light snacks like fruit and biscuits.Read more about the food options served during the retreat below. Please note that the dishes served may vary based on the availability of seasonal and local ingredients.

## Getting There

The art retreat with Wendy Artin will be held in the Algarve, a stunning region located at the southernmost point of the Portuguese coast. The charming coastal towns and traditional fishing villages, with their whitewashed buildings, add to the region's enchanting allure. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, savoring exquisite cuisine, exploring historic architecture, and experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.The retreat includes a visit to Lagos, a historic port town that has been a cultural crossroads for civilizations like the Romans, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Just a 10-minute drive from the retreat location, Lagos boasts vibrant architecture, cozy cafés, and unique shops. You'll also enjoy a sailing trip across the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic. Praia da Luz, the nearest beach, is only 4 km (2.5 miles) from the venue, while Faro Airport, the main transfer point, is about an hour's drive away.Please arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We strongly advise allowing ample time for international travel and recommend arriving in Portugal at least one day before the retreat begins to account for any potential flight delays, acclimate to the time zone, and rest after your journey.Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.Here's how to get from Faro Airport (FAO) to the retreat venue:Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included. The transfer to the retreat venue typically takes about one hour. Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on September 15, 2026, and check-out is after breakfast on September 22, 2026, by 10:00 AM. Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.Arrival Transfer: September 15, 2026 — 3:00 PM (departure from Faro Airport (FAO), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)Departure Transfer: September 22, 2026 — 10:00 AM (departure from the retreat venue, arriving at Faro Airport (FAO) around 11:00 AM)If the pre-set transfer times do not align with your travel plans, please consider the following alternatives:Extend your stay in Faro before and/or after the retreat and utilize the prearranged shuttles to/from Faro Airport (FAO).Arrange for a taxi to transport you to the retreat venue (address: Quinta Bonita, Matos Morenos Quatro Estradas, 8600-115 Lagos, Portugal) at an additional cost of approximately US$150 each way. Please note that taxi fares may vary and are subject to change.

## Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats at this venue:"The venue was glorious! The grounds filled with beautiful flora. The main house, so tasteful, classy and comfortable. The staff was outstanding, such kind and helpful folks that were genuinely welcoming and happy to be there. Everyone was so accommodating. This venue was a wealth of views I am eager to paint. Our food was superb, healthy and a wide variety of choices. I have already signed up for next year! And, I stayed in the little cottage, loved it. A delightful respite during breaks, very comfortable. Thoroughly enjoyed staying there, and I booked it again. This was one of my favorites Uptrek has planned for us.""I shared a room with a stranger who quickly became a friend. We had plenty of space for our “stuff.” The gathering areas (patios and living room) were charming and comfortable. We ate outside for every meal (since the weather was so mild), and each meal was delightful and delicious. Our excursions were fun, especially the sailboat to the grottoes.""UpTrek was easy to work with and responsive to questions. The venue in Portugal, Quinta Bonita, which has a studio, was a wonderful location for an art retreat with lots of inspiration. A walking tour of Lagos with time for shopping and taking pictures for painting as well as a boat trip of the beautiful grottoes of the Algarve.""The venue was spectacular and inspired our creativity. The staff were attentive in every way. The food reflected our diverse preferences and was so delicious. From my registration for this retreat through my departure, the communication and organization reflected the highest of standards. Thanks @uptrek! This was an experience of a lifetime.""The venue and catering were stunning; I felt taken care of and like I was a guest in someone's home.""It was a fabulous retreat. The venue was spectacular and the hosts always went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. I look forward to exploring more Uptrek Retreats in the future. Thank you!""I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The venue was lovely as were the wonderful ladies (and gentleman) who looked after us. The food was especially good.""Beautiful venue, excellent teacher, wonderful participants. The food was delicious. I had such a wonderful time and would definitely recommend another Uptrek retreat to others.""I had a FABULOUS time! The retreat venue was so welcoming and such a peaceful place to spend the week."

## Frequently Asked Questions

Is this retreat available to all levels?The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some familiarity with watercolor, as well as with Wendy Artin's work and style of teaching.When is the retreat available?The retreat with artist Wendy Artin in Algarve, Portugal, takes place between September 15 - 22, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Check-in at the retreat venue begins at 4:00 PM on September 15, 2026, and check-out is after breakfast on September 22, 2026. Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.Is Wi-Fi available?WiFi is available in all areas at no additional cost.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.How do I get to the retreat venue?Please plan to arrive at Faro Airport (FAO). We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in Portugal a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private airport transfers to and from Faro Airport (FAO) at prearranged times are included.Refer to the Location tab for further details. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.What’s the weather like in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, in mid-September?The weather in Lagos, Algarve, Portugal, in mid-September is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 27°C (80°F) during the day that drop to around 18°C (64°F) at night. The Algarve region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year.What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a sun hat and sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a jacket for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.Can I do laundry while on the retreat?Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue, and you are welcome to use them free of charge during your stay.What supplies do I need for the workshops?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Wendy Artin will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.Tables, chairs, field easels, professional studio lighting, portable plein-air stools, paper towels, glass jars, fresh vegetables, plants, and a live figure model are included and will be available at the venue. Students will bring their own art supplies based on the instructor’s list of recommended materials.How many people are to be expected on the retreat?There is a maximum number of 16 participants.Do I need a visa?Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter Portugal for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?Please take out euros in cash from an ATM at the airport, in Faro, or Lagos (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary in Portugal). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros in cash.Are there any age restrictions?There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.Can a non-participating guest join me?We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility, as the trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets.What language is used during the workshops and other activities?The retreat is available in English.What happens if I need to cancel?Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: Purchase insurance. Please review our cancellation policy.Do I need travel insurance?Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. Click here to purchase your insurance plan.Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the reference code F215276 so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.Do I have to pay a deposit?No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artist or by UpTrek?If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/exploring-the-gestural-figure-and-the-essential-still-life-retreat-artist-wendy-artin-portugal#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

---

**Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/exploring-the-gestural-figure-and-the-essential-still-life-retreat-artist-wendy-artin-portugal
**Last updated:** 2026-03-27