# Plein Air in Nature Art Retreat with Artist Sari Shryack in Spain Unleash your artistic potential amidst the natural splendor of southern Spain's Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Join artist Sari Shryack on a transformative week-long retreat, honing your plein air and acrylic techniques. From the rustic charm of Finca Maltes del Fraile to the historic streets of Granada, each day offers a canvas of inspiration, skill-building, and the companionship of 16 like-minded artists. Dive deep into the world of art, embrace new challenges, and create masterpieces influenced by the Mediterranean's pristine beauty. ## Details - **Dates:** September 30 - October 7, 2024 - **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain - **Starting Price:** $4,150 - **Category:** Painting ## Program ### Plein Air Painting Retreat Embark on an unforgettable art retreat with artist Sari Shryack. This week-long adventure will elevate your plein air and acrylic skills, teaching you how to paint landscapes, still life, and portraits with ease. Taking place in the heart of a natural park in southern Spain, this retreat promises 8 days of insightful classes, inspiring trips to the coast and to Granada with its imposing Alhambra palace, the companionship of 16 likeminded artists, delicious food, and a trip to remember for a lifetime.Guided by the experienced hand of Sari Shryack, you will delve deep into the nuances of color theory, harnessing the power of values, linear perspective, creating a balanced composition, and achieving brushstroke economy. Sari’s teaching style is immersive and personalized, fostering an environment where you'll feel both challenged and supported. While artists of all skill levels are welcome, those with some foundational drawing experience will especially benefit from the curriculum.Your lessons with Sari will include:Painting representationallyDrawingColor theoryValueIntensityWarming and coolingLinear perspectiveSelecting a composition for both portrait and landscape techniquesResponding to your surroundingsFinding inspirationBrushstroke economy...and many more.Cabo de Gata Natural Park, the location of your retreat, is a haven for artists seeking inspiration, with its varied rock formations, unique flora, and shimmering seascapes. The tranquillity of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, coupled with the invigorating sea breeze, creates an ideal environment for plein air painting, allowing you to draw and paint directly from the vibrant scenes before them.All of this unfolds from the base of Finca Maltes del Fraile, a venue that encapsulates the rustic allure of Spanish architecture and hospitality. Beyond the comfort of the estate, you will venture out for plein air sessions, notably to the iconic Cabo de Gata lighthouse, where land, sea, and sky converge in a dance of colors. Additionally, a trip to Granada, crowned by the Alhambra palace, offers a blend of cultural immersion and plein air opportunities amidst historic and architectural grandeur. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Almería Airport (LEI) in time for a 30-minute transfer to Finca Maltés del Fraile, departing at 3:30 PM. Upon arrival, meet Sari Shryack, your teacher, and fellow artists. After settling into your cozy room, freshen up and prepare for an exciting property tour.Explore the charming Spanish garden, unwind on breezy terraces, and discover the indoor studio and common areas. Later, gather with Sari and the group for a warm welcome reception. Enjoy a drink and savor a delicious three-course dinner crafted by the talented chef, accompanied by a glass of local Spanish wine for a special evening. ### Day 2: Art at the Finca In the morning, after a satisfying breakfast, join your fellow artists for a coffee meet-up. Discuss your goals for the retreat, and get introduced to your course schedule.The morning class begins with Sari guiding you in setting up your paints and engaging in simple exercises to familiarize yourself with your supplies. Learn the art of selecting a composition and establishing a creative roadmap for your painting through a landscape demonstration.Lunchtime offers a chance to indulge in Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.In the afternoon, return to the workshop space. Sari will provide personalized, one-on-one instruction and will guide you in creating your own portrait painting using reference photos.Afterward, use your free time to refine your techniques, explore the inspiring surroundings, or simply relax and rejuvenate.As the sun sets over the natural park, gather for a delightful dinner prepared by the talented chef. Savor the flavors of Spain, paired with exquisite local wines, along with the company of your fellow artists. ### Day 3: Classes & lighthouse trip Start your day with a satisfying breakfast to fuel your creative energy. Afterward, join your fellow artists for a coffee meetup, where you can chat about the day ahead.In the morning class, get ready for a session that will prep you for painting en plein air during the afternoon trip. Sari will give you a quick demo on depicting landscapes and water, focusing on capturing the interplay of light and shadow on its surface.Lunch is a delightful break, offering Mediterranean flavors with fresh, local ingredients.Then, gear up for a wonderful trip to the Cabo de Gata lighthouse. Perched on a rocky hill, this iconic landmark offers awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the enchanting tales and allure of the Reef of Sirens, where the haunting calls of Monk seals, once believed to be mythical mermaids, have woven captivating legends. Take reference pictures to use as inspiration later, or set up your materials on the promontory and capture the azure sea on your canvas.After a day of exploration, return for a satisfying three-course dinner, where you can discuss your experiences with your fellow artists. ### Day 4: Art at the Finca Fuel your creative spirit with a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day. In the morning class, venture into the gardens with Sari and the group. Sari will lead a still-life demonstration using objects gathered from the venue. You're welcome to follow along with the demos or simply observe. For those feeling inspired, you can create a landscape painting inspired by the beauty of Nature Retreat's gardens or set up your own still-life scenes with the gorgeous items collected on the spot.Take a well-deserved lunch break, then continue with your course. In the afternoon class, develop your morning paintings or put the finishing touches on your landscape pieces inspired by the Cabo de Gata trip. As always, Sari will be on hand to offer you one-on-one feedback and guidance.As the day comes to a close, gather for a tantalizing three-course dinner, expertly paired with a glass of Spanish wine. ### Day 5: Trip to the Alhambra Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast to prepare for an exciting adventure. Today, you'll embark on a full-day trip to the enchanting city of Granada. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Moorish architecture and local history with a guided tour of the famous Alhambra palace and fortress complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll learn about the kings, nobles, and courtesans who once walked its halls. The palace is decorated with beautiful patterns, plant designs, and Arabic writing. Visit the Court of the Lions, where you'll get inspired by the detailed woodwork on the walls.For lunch, find a nearby eatery and try out the flavors of the region. Afterward, you may want to explore the vibrant Alcaicería, a renowned Arab bazaar, and meander through the narrow streets of the picturesque Realejo neighborhood and the Jewish Quarter. The city's rich history and splendid architecture offer a wealth of inspiration. Don't forget to explore charming shops for unique trinkets to bring home as souvenirs or use in future still-life compositions. Capture the beauty of Granada through photographs and sketches, which you can later incorporate into your paintings.As the day concludes, return to the retreat for a satisfying dinner. Share your experiences, impressions, and newfound artistic insights with your fellow artists, making the evening a memorable part of your creative journey. ### Day 6: Art at the Finca Following a delicious breakfast, join Sari and your fellow artists for a casual coffee meetup, where you can share your experiences so far and ask any questions about the course.In the morning class, return to the dedicated workshop space with Sari. Apply the insights you've gained throughout the past days to fresh paintings, further enhancing your knowledge and skills. Your subjects may range from the captivating landscapes of Cabo de Gata to reference images of Granada's imposing architecture or even the charming trinkets you discovered at the bazaar. Sari will provide personalized guidance and support as you hone your skills further.Lunchtime offers a delightful respite, allowing you to recharge and connect with fellow artists.In the afternoon class, continue your creative journey amidst the serene gardens. Alternatively, take a well-deserved break and unwind with a refreshing swim in the pool or lose yourself in the pages of a captivating book on the terraces. This is your time to rejuvenate and draw inspiration from the tranquil surroundings.As the sun gracefully sets, gather for a mouthwatering dinner with your fellow artists. Recount your day's achievements over a delightful glass of wine. ### Day 7: Art at the venue Greet the day with some delicious breakfast, then get ready for the morning class of this last full day of the retreat. Sari will offer inspiring demonstrations and provide expert guidance as you apply the finishing strokes to the artwork you've nurtured throughout the week. This is a time for contemplation and discussion as you share your artistic progress and accomplishments with both Sari and your fellow artists, celebrating your accomplishments.In the afternoon class, participate in a casual gallery show, where you can present your work to fellow artists. Appreciate the diverse creations of your peers, engage in constructive critique, and find inspiration in the varied artistic approaches. This invaluable experience allows you to assess your artistic development and offers a wonderful opportunity to engage with your fellow creatives.End the retreat on a high note with a celebratory farewell dinner. Toast to your achievements and to the lasting friendship you've forged over the retreat! ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy breakfast with Sari and your fellow participants, share final contact details, bid farewell, and prepare for your transfer to Almería Airport (LEI). Check-out time is 10:00 AM. ## Instructors - **Sari Shryack** - Painter, Art Teacher ## Accommodation ### Finca Maltés del Fraile ### Shared standard ensuite room ### Shared superior ensuite room ### Single standard ensuite room ### Single superior ensuite room ## Book This Retreat Visit [https://uptrek.com/retreat/plein-air-in-nature-art-retreat-artist-sari-shryack-spain](https://uptrek.com/retreat/plein-air-in-nature-art-retreat-artist-sari-shryack-spain) to make a reservation. *Provided by [UpTrek](https://uptrek.com)*