# Paint your Wanderlust Art Retreat with Artist Tracy Verdugo in Portugal Join artist Tracy Verdugo for an unforgettable art retreat on Portugal's sunny southern coast. Over the week-long art retreat, dive deep into the world of mixed media, word, acrylic ink, paint, collage, and playful mark-making. Paint in the dedicated studio or en plein air in the sprawling gardens of Quinta Bonita, your gorgeous retreat venue exclusively rented for Tracy Verdugo and her guests. Indulge in exquisite meals prepared by a private chef, sail the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic, uncover the Algarve's secret coves, and immerse yourself in the historic charm of Lagos. Tracy's guidance and a supportive community await, enabling both beginners and experienced painters to embrace their artistic journey, let go of perfectionism, and create art reflecting their inner essence. Discover the freedom to express yourself authentically amidst Portugal's breathtaking landscapes. ## Details - **Dates:** June 16 - 23, 2025 - **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal - **Starting Price:** $4,550 - **Category:** Painting ## Program ### Acrylics/Mixed Media Art Retreat Embark on an extraordinary artistic journey with artist Tracy Verdugo in Portugal's sunny Algarve region. This captivating mixed-media retreat welcomes artists of all levels to unlock their creativity and explore the beauty of their own artistic voice.Delve into the world of mixed media artistry, discovering an array of techniques and mediums, including acrylic inks and paints, oil pastels, charcoal, and pencils. Tracy's expert guidance will empower you to break free from self-doubt and comparison, allowing your unique vision to shine brightly. Through relaxed warm-ups, layered explorations, and comprehensive demonstrations on glazing, composition, and narrative, you will embrace spontaneity, unlock your creative potential, silence your inner critic, and witness your artistic expression soar to new heights.Prepare for unforgettable art trips, including sailing on traditional Portuguese sailboats and exploring the hidden coves of the Algarve, as well as discovering the historic charm of Lagos. You'll also discover inspiration at your retreat venue, a beautiful Portuguese Quinta surrounded by lush botanical gardens, a refreshing pool, and stunning surroundings, exclusively reserved for you and your art group.This retreat celebrates individuality and personal growth, providing a supportive community of 16 like-minded artists who will encourage and inspire you as you explore your artistic possibilities amidst the picturesque landscape of sun-kissed Portugal.Some of the topics Tracy will cover include:Introduction to acrylic inks and mixed mediaLayering techniquesApproaching collage, sketching on the go, and whimsical portraitsExploring glazing, composition, and narrativeLoosening up and breaking free from self-criticismCombining personal experience and imagery to create paintings that tell your own storyActivating your imagination and creating compelling paintings with fresh energyBoosting your artistic confidence...and many more.In addition to daily classes with Tracy, you'll have free time in the afternoons to connect with her and your fellow artists over a glass of wine or to explore the exclusive retreat venue. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Faro Airport and catch the 3:00 PM transfer to Quinta Bonita, your retreat venue. Once you've settled into your comfortable room and freshened up, join your fellow artists for an orientation tour. Explore the expansive gardens, the art studio, the inviting terraces, and the refreshing pool area. Gather with your instructor, Tracy Verdugo, and your fellow artists for a welcome drink, then celebrate your arrival with a delightful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, accompanied by a glass of local Portuguese wine. ### Day 2: Art at the venue Start your day with a delectable breakfast at the estate, relishing in delightful pastries, local hams, and sweet puddings, all while soaking in the serene garden views. Join Tracy and your UpTrek host for a morning check-in over coffee, where you'll discuss the day's plans.Step into the morning art session with Tracy, immersing yourself in an exploration of mixed media materials. Discover the vibrant potential of acrylic inks and paints, oil pastels, charcoal, and pencils. Embrace spontaneity and loosen up through relaxed warm-ups, allowing your creativity to flow freely onto the canvas.Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes prepared by the private chef. Rejuvenated and energized, return to the afternoon art session for further exploration of the concepts introduced earlier. Inspired by the breathtaking surroundings, unleash your artistic expression as you create pieces in your travel sketchbook, capturing the essence of this stunning retreat location.Following a fulfilling day of artistic exploration, take some time to relax and rejuvenate with a refreshing dip in the pool or lounge on the sunny terraces. The day concludes with another exquisite dinner prepared by the chef, each dish perfectly paired with a glass of local wine. ### Day 3: Art trip to Lagos Prepare for the day ahead with a delightful breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, then gather your art supplies for today's adventure. You'll embark on an art excursion to the nearby coastal town of Lagos, steeped in a rich history that predates the Romans. Serving as a cultural crossroads for civilizations spanning from the Greeks and Phoenicians to the Moors, Lagos boasts an architectural tapestry that reflects its diverse heritage.As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, keep your travel sketchbook and camera close at hand. Tracy will offer invaluable tips on sketching on location, capturing everything from the vibrant plazas to the iconic azure tiles adorning the whitewashed facades. Don't miss a visit to the marina, where fishing boats bob gently in the waves, or take a moment to sketch the sweeping vistas from the nearby beaches, renowned for their unparalleled beauty.After reconvening at the venue for a light lunch, join Tracy in the spacious art studio for a creative session. Dive into the creative process, using what's around you as a source of inspiration. Engage in written exercises, crafting poetry and haikus that reflect your artistic spirit, with inspiration at your fingertips.Take advantage of your free time to unwind, reflect on your artistic aspirations, and engage in lively conversations with your fellow artists. Later, join your creative companions for a sumptuous three-course dinner crafted by our skilled private chef. Anticipate the exciting artistic endeavors that lie ahead, as you continue to paint your wanderlust. ### Day 4: Art at the venue Indulge in a delightful breakfast before gathering for the morning circle over coffee, a cherished moment to exchange insights, aspirations, and draw inspiration from your fellow artists.In the morning session, Tracy will lead you through an exhilarating exploration of layering techniques using the diverse mixed media materials introduced previously. Dive into the art of blending tools and mediums to create innovative compositions that reflect your unique vision. Tracy will also provide invaluable tutorials on glazing, composition, and storytelling, empowering you to convey your narrative through your artwork.After a light lunch break, channel the inspiration drawn from Lagos into your personal creations, utilizing photos and sketches to infuse your artwork with your individual experiences. Embrace the joy of the artistic process, focusing less on the final outcome and more on the journey of self-expression.Relish your leisure time, then indulge in a delectable three-course dinner, perfectly paired with a glass of wine, as you unwind and reflect on the day's artistic discoveries. ### Day 5: Sailing trip After a hearty breakfast, prepare for an inspiring maritime journey. Departing from Lagos, you'll set sail on a captivating art trip aboard a traditional Portuguese boat. As you sail the glistening waters of the Atlantic, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Algarve coastline. The rugged cliffs, rolling waves, and striking rock formations offer boundless inspiration for your travel sketchbook. Embrace the spirit of exploration as you uncover hidden grottoes, secluded caves, and pristine beaches, guided by the salty sea breeze. Capture the enchanting scenery in your travel sketchbook, drawing inspiration from the play of light and shadow and the mesmerizing hues adorning the waves and cliffs. Let the beauty of your surroundings ignite your creativity.Upon returning to Quinta Bonita, a delectable lunch awaits. Reengage with your artistic flow in the afternoon session. Drawing inspiration from the loose sketches and photographs from your sailing excursion, embark on a playful mixed-media experiment, capturing the essence of the Atlantic's shimmering waters. Tracy will lead a session on painting whimsical faces, encouraging you to approach portraiture with joy and confidence, revealing the charm of quirky characters. Whenever assistance is needed, Tracy will be on hand to provide gentle guidance and individual feedback.During your leisure time, unwind amidst the tranquil gardens of Quinta Bonita, take a stroll, or socialize with fellow artists on the terraces. The day ends with a chef-prepared dinner accompanied by fine Portuguese wine. ### Day 6: Art at the venue Rise to a delightful breakfast, preparing you for the artistic journey that lies ahead. In the morning session, under Tracy's guidance, delve further into the artworks you've commenced during the retreat, exploring new techniques and adding depth to your creations. Embrace the myriad of creative possibilities that unfold before you.Following a satisfying lunch break, continue refining your earlier pieces or immerse yourself in your travel sketchbook. Benefit from Tracy's expertise and the supportive atmosphere as you hone the skill of quieting your inner critic.Take advantage of your leisure time before indulging in a lavish three-course dinner meticulously crafted by the private chef. Relish the flavors, accompanied by a glass of exquisite local wine, while reflecting on the day's artistic endeavors. ### Day 7: Art at the venue Embrace the culminating day of the retreat with a satisfying breakfast. In both the morning and afternoon sessions, continue refining your previous works or delving deeper into your travel sketchbook. Take advantage of Tracy's guidance and the encouraging atmosphere as you hone the skill of quieting your inner critic.In the afternoon, take part in a relaxed gallery exhibition, providing an opportunity to display your proudest artworks. Engage in meaningful conversations with fellow artists, celebrating your accomplishments and offering constructive feedback.As the sun begins to set on this transformative journey, relish in a farewell three-course dinner expertly prepared by the talented private chef. Delight in a culinary masterpiece highlighting the finest local ingredients, and raise a glass of local wine to celebrate the artistic connections formed during the retreat. ### Day 8: Departure Gather with Tracy and your fellow participants for breakfast, exchange any final contact information, bid your farewells, and prepare for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO). Check-out time is at 10:00 AM. ## Instructors - **Tracy Verdugo** - Artist and author ## Accommodation ### Quinta Bonita ### Shared room in Casa Bonita ### Shared standard ensuite room ### Shared superior room - garden view ### Shared superior room - sea view ### Shared deluxe suite - sea view ### Single room in Casa Bonita ### Single master suite - sea view ## Book This Retreat Visit [https://uptrek.com/retreat/paint-your-wanderlust-art-retreat-artist-tracy-verdugo-portugal](https://uptrek.com/retreat/paint-your-wanderlust-art-retreat-artist-tracy-verdugo-portugal) to make a reservation. *Provided by [UpTrek](https://uptrek.com)*