# Watercolor from Life Art Retreat with Emily Olson in Morocco Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues and serene landscapes of Agadir with the "Watercolor from Life" retreat led by artist Emily Olson. This unique getaway is designed to refine your watercolor skills, explore subjects such as landscape, still-life, portraiture, and sketchbook painting, and invigorate your senses amidst Morocco’s natural wonders.Experience the eco-conscious charm of the Atlas Kasbah, your venue, the bustling markets of Agadir, the sunny Atlantic coastlines, and the imperial city of Taroudant. This retreat offers an unparalleled opportunity to create, learn, and explore in an encouraging atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned painter or a curious beginner, this eight-day adventure promises to be a memorable journey filled with growth, cultural immersion, and inspiration. ## Details - **Dates:** October 21 - 28, 2024 - **Location:** Agadir, Morocco - **Starting Price:** $3,850 - **Category:** Painting ## Program ### Sketchbook Journaling Retreat Dive into a painting adventure with Emily Olson in vibrant Morocco, near the coastal region of Agadir. For eight days, you'll benefit from daily classes with Emily, and explore everything from majestic mountain vistas to the bright, quirky charm of local market scenes. Whether you're a complete beginner or already have some watercolor experience under your belt, Emily's flexible approach will ensure your watercolor skills soar to new heights.The sessions led by Emily are all about variety and depth. Starting with basics like palette selection and water control to complex compositions, you will learn to wield your brush with newfound confidence. Discover the joys of painting from life, exploring themes of still-life, sketchbook, landscape, and portrait painting. The retreat's art trips, from the lush locales of Agadir to the majestic imperial city of Taroudant, promise a wealth of inspiration for every artist.Your daily classes with Emily will cover:Basic water control, controlling your watercolor when working uprightPainting in a sketchbook, on-locationPainting from life, whether that's a still life setup, a model, or the landscapes of the Atlas mountainsFocusing on valuesNarrowing down complex pieces to simple shapesCreating strong compositionsDefeating artist's block and finding inspirationSketching and painting on the goColor mixing and working with a cohesive palette...and many more.Agadir's charm lies in its blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, offering you a diversity of subjects to capture. This vibrant region is known for its verdant valleys, traditional villages, and stunning coastline, providing an ever-present inspiration for your artwork. The Atlas Mountains loom in the distance, while the local life's vividness infuses your palette with the region's full spectrum. Moreover, you'll experience the full extent of local Berber hospitality, by taking part in a traditional tea ceremony, enjoying a complimentary hammam bath, as well as a Berber folk band concert.Your delightful venue is Atlas Kasbah, an eco-lodge that marries comfort with cultural authenticity. Here, the tranquility of sustainable living complements the immersive art experience. Excursions to the bustling Souk El Had, the sunny Atlantic beaches, and the storied walls of imperial Taroudant offer a treasure trove of inspiring subjects. Each destination is a chapter in your creative narrative, waiting for you to bring it to life with watercolors. ### 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 artist Emily Olson, 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 Start your second day at the retreat with a nourishing breakfast, readying you for a creative burst. Over coffee, check in to discuss the day’s agenda.Dive into the morning class, where Emily introduces you to the essentials: art supplies and palettes. You’ll engage in basic exercises, ensuring you know your inventory. Emily will demonstrate some watercolor basics, from simple mixing techniques and water control to washes. Emily's encouragement and hands-on demos will ensure you feel at ease, whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or you've been at it for years.Refuel with a delicious lunch before embarking on the afternoon class. Here, apply your morning insights to some sketch-booking exercises. Fill the first pages of your sketchbook, guided by Emily'stips. Draw from the Kasbah’s enchanting flora and picturesque setting for inspiration.During spare time, meander through the gardens, journal, or simply relax by the pool. Let the tranquility of the Kasbah invigorate your senses.Conclude the day with a sumptuous three-course chef-prepared dinner, each bite complemented by a glass of wine, reflecting on the day's artistic journey. ### Day 3: Trip to Souk El Had in Agadir Kick off your day with a refreshing breakfast before a casual coffee check-in to chat about the day ahead. Gear up for an adventure to Agadir’s bustling Souk El Had, a treasure trove and the largest urban market in Africa. Here, let the kaleidoscope of spices, fruits, and handwoven fabrics inspire you. Hunt for unique finds that could star in your still-life work or find their way home as souvenirs. Cap your market visit with a cable car ride, capturing Agadir's panorama in photos – perfect for your art.After lunch at the venue, settle into the afternoon class with Emily. She’ll lead a landscape demonstration and guide you through drawing basics. Practice thumbnail sketches and value studies to sharpen your compositional eye, then distill scenes into monochromatic paintings, focusing on form and major shapes. Your photos taken during the cable car will come in handy.Use your spare time to relax, reflect, or roam the venue grounds – maybe start a new sketch or connect with fellow artists.Evening brings a three-course chef-made dinner with wine, the perfect close to a day rich in experiences. ### Day 4: Painting and tea ceremony Rise to a delightful breakfast to start your day. Afterward, huddle over a warm coffee to chat about what's in store and check in with each other's progress.The morning's art session will introduce the delicate world of still life. You'll be greeted by an arranged canvas of life's simple pleasures – a vibrant bouquet, or ripe fruit waiting to be captured in minute, exquisite detail. This is your chance to try your hand at micro painting, where the focus is on the subtle interplay of light and shadow on smaller canvases.After a leisurely lunch, step back into your classes under the open sky. The afternoon workshop has you exploring the Kasbah's grounds, interpreting the sturdy grace of trees and stunning landscapes onto your canvas. Broaden your scope, and move on from the fine details of a still-life to the wider perspective of a landscape. Expect personal feedback from Emily and group critiques to refine your technique.With the day's instruction behind you, your free time awaits. Wander the Kasbah, sketch in solitude, or exchange stories with fellow participants.As dusk approaches, prepare for a special event: the Moroccan tea ceremony. An officiant guide will introduce you to the hospitality steeped in this cherished ritual. Engage all your senses as you breathe in the high-quality tea, mingling with the region's signature fresh mint. Observe the intricate dance of pouring, the gleam of traditional brassware, and the deliberate, gracious gestures that make up this ceremony.Dinner is an affair to remember – a three-course feast prepared by the chef, each course paired with wine to toast to your creative endeavors. ### Day 5: Art trip to the Atlantic Coast Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast, then gather around for a coffee and a friendly chat to get the lowdown on the day's exciting trip.Today's all about the sunny vibes of the Atlantic Coast. The golden beaches of Agadir and the soothing hustle of waves await. Not just a treat for the senses, this location is rife with inspiring sights. Dip your toes in the sand, snap that perfect wave, or let your brush dance to the rhythm of the sea.Feel free to whip out your art supplies right on the beach. Let the coastal scenes inspire your work as Emily offers tips and advice to refine your pieces. When hunger strikes, you’ve got options: a Kasbah-packed lunch or the chance to savor some local beach eats.Wind down your beach day with a return to the Kasbah for a relaxing dinner. Enjoy a well-deserved three-course meal and a glass of wine, reflecting on your creations and experiences by the sea. ### Day 6: Trip to Taroudant Fuel up with breakfast, then join the group for a laid-back coffee chat, to get to know more about the day's plans.Today's adventure is a trip to Taroudant, an imperial city steeped in history. Stroll through ancient city gates into the Medina, and let the old-world architecture inspire your art. Watch local artisans craft wonders with leather and metals, and snap photos to turn into watercolor paintings later.After the trip, you'll head back for lunch at Atlas Kasbah, where the flavors are as rich as the morning’s impressions.In the afternoon, it's time for another class—hone in on urban landscapes, starting with value studies. Capture the play of light and shadow in monochromatic strokes under Emily’s guidance. Then, let colors come alive as you transform your value sketches into a full-color spectacle.In the late afternoon, reflect on the day, lounge by the pool, or just revel in the Kasbah’s tranquility.Evening calls for a three-course culinary journey, complete with a wine toast to the day’s experiences. ### Day 7: Art class at the venue Kick off your day with a scrumptious breakfast and a casual coffee meet-up.Morning's class is a real treat—watch Emily bring a portrait to life, guided by the vibrant hues of traditional Berber attire. A host from the Kasbah will sit as the model, making for a unique subject. Grab your brushes and follow her lead; it's your turn to capture the character and color.After enjoying a delightful lunch at the venue, dive in with your own practice. This is your chance to apply the morning's insights and add your own spin. Take this practice time to perfect your skills.As dusk falls, it's time to showcase your creations. Set up your pieces for a mini-gallery viewing with the group. Discuss your works, share your journey, and engage in thoughtful self-reflection on the week's progress.The day wraps up with a special farewell dinner, your final Atlas Kasbah feast, made even more memorable with a live performance from a Berber folk band serenading the evening. ### 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 - **Emily Olson** - Watercolor artist and teacher ## 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/watercolor-from-life-art-retreat-emily-olson-morocco](https://uptrek.com/retreat/watercolor-from-life-art-retreat-emily-olson-morocco) to make a reservation. *Provided by [UpTrek](https://uptrek.com)*