# Sketchbook Journaling Retreat with Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle in Morocco Pack your sketchbook and set your spirit free on a captivating 8-day adventure with artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle in the heart of Morocco. More than just an art retreat, it's a journey where every twist and turn, from the bustling Agadir markets to the serene Atlantic coast, becomes a page in your travel diary. Whether you're a seasoned sketcher or just doodling dreams, let Morocco be your muse. Dive in, embrace the inspiration, and let your creativity soar! ## Details - **Dates:** May 26 - June 2, 2024 - **Location:** Agadir, Morocco - **Starting Price:** $3,950 - **Category:** Painting ## Program ### Sketchbook Journaling Retreat Dive into a transformative art retreat guided by artists Mike Lowery and Katrin Wiehle. This 8-day artistic adventure will empower you to develop a consistent sketchbook routine, enabling you to immortalize your travel experiences through your art. Taking place at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the sketchbook retreat is hosted at an award-winning eco-lodge. Take part in immersive classes with your favorite artists, as well as thrilling art trips to the Atlantic coast, Paradise Valley, and the animated Souk El Had in Agadir. With 18 fellow artists by your side, expect delectable meals, a cultural awakening, and memories that you'll treasure for a lifetime.Guided by Katrin and Mike's expertise, you'll be introduced to the exciting world of sketch booking. Their teaching emphasizes the value of experimentation, innovation with mediums like pen, ink, and watercolor, and the art of chronicling travels. They'll equip you with strategies to confront and conquer creative blockades. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a novice, their inclusive approach ensures you'll garner invaluable insights, ensuring you're well-equipped to grow creatively after the retreat. If you're also looking to learn more about the illustration industry, Katrin and Mike offer a trove of experience, tips, and information.Throughout your classes, you'll cover:How to start and keep a daily sketchbook habitHow to keep a travel diarySimple hand-lettering for sketchbooksFinding inspirationHow to keep notes about your travelsExercises to deal with Creative BlockPen and inkColoring techniques for sketchbooksSome of the additional discussions will include:Drawing in ProcreateSelf-promotion for artistsInstagram for artists Finding your styleWorking on children’s booksAnd LOTS more!Morocco's Agadir-Ida-Ou Tanane region, where the retreat unfolds, boasts a diverse tapestry of landscapes. From the majestic Atlas Mountains and their verdant foothills to the pulsating energy of markets in Agadir, there's a confluence of history, culture, and natural beauty. The region becomes a live canvas, inspiring every stroke and hue you commit to your sketchbook.The Atlas Kasbah, your venue for this retreat, stands as a testament to eco-luxury. As an eco-lodge, it harmonizes with its surroundings, providing a tranquil space to learn and create. Your artistic journey is punctuated with visits to Souk El Had, the largest urban market in Africa; the serene beaches of Agadir, where the Atlantic whispers tales of faraway lands; and the ethereal Paradise Valley, nature's own masterpiece waiting to inspire yours.In addition to your daily classes, experience full cultural immersion by partaking in age-old traditions, such as a tea ceremony, or a Berber folk band show. Relish delicious Moroccan cuisine, and rejuvenate with a complimentary traditional steam bath (hammam). Record these rich experiences in your sketchbook and create a wonderful snapshot of your adventures in Morocco. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) and join the 1:00 PM transfer to Atlas Kasbah. Once there, find comfort in your thoughtfully appointed room. Settle in, then meet artists Katrin Wiehle and Mike Lowery, as well as your art group. You'll embark on a delightful tour of Atlas Kasbah's captivating terraces, verdant gardens, and inviting living spaces. As dusk envelops the day, gather with fellow art enthusiasts for a delectable three-course welcome dinner, each bite enhanced by a glass of exquisite wine. Your artistic journey begins here. ### Day 2: Art classes at the Kasbah Begin your day with a revitalizing breakfast. Soon after, gather with everyone for a coffee check-in to set the day's creative tone. Start the morning class with an easygoing sketching warm-up. Mike and Katrin will talk about the advantages of keeping a daily sketchbook and give some tips on how to use it. They'll introduce techniques to visually document your experiences, all the while encouraging you to experiment with diverse materials.After a lunch break, your afternoon class begins with a walk around Atlas Kasbah to gather inspiration. The Atlas Mountains and sprawling argan forest will be your backdrop. Mike and Katrin will then show you some of their own sketching styles, and you'll get to try out what you've learned so far with a fun exercise.When class wraps up, take some time for yourself. Go for a swim in the saltwater pool, chat with fellow artists, walk the gardens, or just relax. End your day with a three-course dinner and a glass of wine, chatting about your first day at Atlas Kasbah. ### Day 3: Trip to Souk El Had in Agadir After a refreshing breakfast, gather for a coffee check-in to prep for the day. Soon, you'll head to Agadir's lively Souk El Had, the largest urban market in Africa. Immerse yourself in the bazaar's vibrancy, and wander through the stalls brimming with spices, fruit, fabrics, and quirky trinkets. Use this trip for impromptu sketching, with Mike and Katrin offering tips on capturing moments for a travel diary. Top the trip off with a cable car ride over the city, granting a breathtaking view of Agadir.Back at Atlas Kasbah, enjoy lunch before diving into your afternoon class. Use your fresh photos and memories to bring life to your sketchbook, weaving in the day's experiences.After the class, relax during your leisure time. Swim, chat, explore, or simply unwind in the serene surroundings. As evening sets, relish a chef-made three-course dinner, paired with wine, rounding off another enriching day. ### Day 4: Trip to Paradise Valley Begin your fourth day with a nourishing breakfast, followed by a morning coffee session to map out the day's activities. The spotlight of today is your art trip to Paradise Valley. Just an hour away, this natural sanctuary, cradled by the Atlas Mountains and fed by the Tamraght River, is sure to inspire plenty of material for your travel sketchbook.Let the valley's lush landscape, glistening pools, and cascading waterfalls captivate your artistic spirit. Sketch the outlines of palm trees, be inspired by the rustic argan groves, and take in the vast scenic vistas. If the sun's on your side, seize the chance for a rejuvenating dip in one of the valley's cool pools.Back at the venue, after a hearty lunch, dive into the afternoon's class. Katrin and Mike will introduce creative ways to deal with artistic block. Your sketchbook is the perfect place to find new ways of working and bringing ideas to life. Today's session will help guests use their sketchbooks as a fountain of inspiration. Katrin and Mike will also share valuable insights about pitching book ideas and navigating the children's book market and broader illustration sectors.Wrap up the day at your own pace. Enjoy a complimentary hammam treatment, or go for a leisurely swim, garden stroll, or relaxed conversation with your group. The evening awaits with a delectable three-course dinner, complemented by a choice of wine, marking another accomplished day. ### Day 5: Painting and tea ceremony Kickstart your fifth day with a wholesome breakfast, before convening over coffee to hear more about the plans for the day. Today, the vast gardens of the Kasbah become your canvas. Begin the day with invigorating sketchbook exercises to get those creative juices flowing. As the morning progresses, set up for some plein air painting in the Kasbah gardens. As you delve deeper into your work, remember that Katrin and Mike are nearby, ever-ready to offer insights and personalized feedback to enhance your sketches.Once you've had your fill of the morning's artistry, replenish with a hearty lunch. The afternoon sees you diving back into your sketchbook, letting the verdant backdrop of the Kasbah guide your hand.As the sun dips lower, shift gears and immerse yourself in a Moroccan tea ceremony. Together with your art group, experience the age-old tradition led by a seasoned guide. Let the essence of the ritual wash over you – from the aromatic wafts of fresh mint tea to the intricacies of the ceremonial practices.Conclude your day in the company of your fellow artists, savoring a chef-curated three-course dinner, perfectly paired with a glass of wine, cherishing yet another day of artistic discovery. ### Day 6: Art trip to the Atlantic Coast After a nourishing breakfast, come together with your fellow artists over coffee to preview what the day has in store. Today, the scenic allure of the Atlantic Coast awaits. Venture to the warm beaches near Agadir, where the rhythmic dance of the waves and the embrace of the golden sun will be your muse. The sprawling sands and the ocean's vastness beckon; whether you want to capture the moment with your camera, pour your inspiration onto your sketchbook, or simply let the waves tickle your toes, the choice is yours.If spontaneity calls, why not set up a sketching session right there? Spend the day exploring Agadir's diverse beaches, looking for those magical moments that'll enrich your sketchbook. At midday, you'll be able to refuel with a packed lunch from the Kasbah or check out one of the many seaside eateries if you wish.Conclude your day back at Atlas Kasbah, reminiscing about the day's adventures over a sumptuous three-course dinner, accompanied by a thoughtfully selected glass of wine. ### Day 7: Art class at the venue Begin your final day with a hearty breakfast, then dive into the morning class, using this dedicated time to put the finishing touches on your journals. Engage with every sketchbook technique you've amassed during the retreat. Whether it's the serene surroundings of the Atlas Kasbah, the thrilling excursions, or the vibrant cultural ceremonies, there's no shortage of inspiration. Mike and Katrin will be there to guide you, eager to provide individualized feedback.After lunch, it's time to shine. Showcase your travel sketchbook in a mini-exhibition. Exchange constructive feedback with your peers in a supportive atmosphere, celebrating each unique perspective. Have lingering questions? Capitalize on the Q&A session with Mike and Katrin, delving deeper into the nuances of maintaining a sketchbook or any curiosities about the world of illustration.As the sun dips, come together one last time for a memorable three-course farewell dinner, elevated by a handpicked wine. The evening is made even more unforgettable with a live performance from a Berber folk band, encapsulating the magic of Morocco and the week spent together. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy breakfast together, exchange any last contacts, and catch the 10:00 AM transfer to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), arriving at the airport at around 1:30 PM. ## Instructors - **Mike Lowery** - Author and Children’s Book Illustrator - **Katrin Wiehle ** - Author and Illustrator ## Accommodation ### Atlas Kasbah ### Shared standard ensuite room ### Shared superior ensuite room ### Single standard ensuite room ### Single superior ensuite room ### Single deluxe suite ## Book This Retreat Visit [https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketchbook-journaling-retreat-mike-lowery-katrin-wiehle-morocco](https://uptrek.com/retreat/sketchbook-journaling-retreat-mike-lowery-katrin-wiehle-morocco) to make a reservation. *Provided by [UpTrek](https://uptrek.com)*