# Words and Wildflowers Art Retreat with Artists Lori Siebert and Kenzie Elston in Portugal Join artists Lori Siebert and Kenzie Elston for a vibrant and inspiring art retreat on the breathtaking southern coast of Portugal. Explore the world of florals and lettering as you discover innovative mixed-media techniques through playful exercises, hands-on projects, and creative challenges.Lori and Kenzie will provide individual guidance, demonstrations, and feedback to help you refine your skills. This retreat is open to all experience levels, from beginners looking to build their foundation to advanced artists ready to take their work to the next level.Beyond the studio, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Algarve region with an art trip to the historic town of Lagos and a sailing adventure along the stunning coastline. Capture the vibrant landscapes, culture, flora, and ocean blues that will inspire your artwork. You'll stay at a traditional Portuguese villa surrounded by blooming gardens, enjoy chef-prepared meals daily, and connect with a supportive community of fellow artists. ## Details - **Dates:** October 17 - 24, 2025 - **Location:** Lagos, Algarve, Portugal - **Starting Price:** $4,150 - **Category:** Painting ## Program ### Words and Wildflowers Art Retreat Join a whimsical art retreat with artists Lori Siebert and Kenzie Elston, set against the stunning backdrop of southern Portugal. Explore the beauty of florals and lettering through a mix of innovative techniques and creative challenges. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, you'll walk away with a deeper connection to your craft, new skills in mixed media, and a portfolio filled with stunning florals and expressive lettering.Throughout the retreat, you'll dive into engaging mixed media techniques, using watercolor, acrylics, cut foam stamps, pens, and markers. Lori and Kenzie will hold daily classes, demonstrations, and hands-on practice sessions, where you may experiment with bold color palettes, playful textures, and fluid forms.The first half of the week will be dedicated to exploring florals in depth. Learn various approaches to creating vibrant blooms and delicate abstract designs. As the week progresses, the focus shifts to lettering. Study techniques for crafting expressive, flowing letterforms that pair beautifully with your floral work. On the final morning, bring florals and lettering together in a harmonious composition and blend the skills developed into unique pieces. The retreat culminates in a mini-exhibition, where you’ll have the opportunity to share your work with fellow artists and celebrate your creative journey.By the end of the week, you’ll leave with new techniques, a personal collection of floral and lettering creations, and memories of an unforgettable artistic adventure.Topics covered in your classes with Lori Siebert and Kenzie Elston include:Painting loosely using wet-on-wet techniques Creating abstract florals Crafting big, bold florals with vibrant color Exploring color usage in mixed media Mastering design basics: pattern, texture, line, and color Developing unique, authentic lettering styles Practicing writing exercises to incorporate into your art journal or other projects All elements of the retreat were carefully curated to stoke your creative fires. The hues of Portugal are as rich as its culture; you'll explore the Algarve region during an outing to the town of Lagos, where you'll draw inspiration from the golden beaches, colorful buildings, and the deep blue ocean. You'll also explore the coastline during a sailing adventure aboard a traditional boat, discovering secret beaches, hidden caves, and dramatic rock formations.You'll stay at a lovely Portuguese villa, gather inspiration from its blooming Italian garden, enjoy regional, chef-made cuisine every day, and connect with a community of 15 other artists. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Faro Airport and catch the 3:00 PM transfer to your retreat venue. Once there, settle into your cozy room, take some time to refresh, and meet your fellow artists for an orientation tour. Discover the beautiful gardens, art studio, relaxing terraces, and the serene pool area. Enjoy a welcome drink with your wonderful instructors, artists Lori Siebert and Kenzie Elston. Celebrate your arrival with a delicious three-course dinner crafted by the in-house chef, paired with a glass of local Portuguese wine. Get excited for the creative week ahead as you connect with your newfound art family. ### Day 2: Art at the venue Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the estate, then head to the studio, where you'll join Lori, Kenzie, and your fellow artists for your first class.Your creative journey kicks off with a morning introduction to the enchanting world of florals and lettering. Start with some warm-up exercises that explore the intricate beauty of mixed media—using watercolor, acrylics, pens, and markers. Set personal artistic goals and let your imagination flourish.After a light lunch, take a moment to unwind, then get ready for the next class.In the afternoon, continue with more playful warm-ups, developing your lettering and floral techniques even further. Experiment with textures, bold strokes, and delicate details, combining the fluidity of mixed media with your unique artistic flair. Lori and Kenzie will be there to offer individual guidance as you refine your skills.As evening falls, gather once again for a delicious dinner prepared by the in-house chef, paired with a glass of local Portuguese wine. Bask in the sense of accomplishment as you look forward to the next day's artistic adventures, surrounded by the warmth of your new creative community. ### Day 3: Art trip to Lagos Start your morning with a delicious breakfast, fueling up for the day’s first adventure. Set off on a half-day art trip to the nearby coastal town of Lagos, a short drive from the venue.Lagos is a charming town rich in history, with heritage from many civilizations including the Greeks, Romans, Phoenicians, and Moors. As you stroll through its labyrinthine, cobbled streets, let your surroundings spark inspiration for your floral and lettering studies. From the colorful mosaics that decorate the streets to the bright, white boats dotting the marina and the stunning azure waters, Lagos offers a vibrant palette at every turn. Don't miss the intricate ceramic "azulejos" tiles adorning many of the town's buildings.Capture the sights with your camera or sketchbook, gathering reference material to inspire your afternoon session. When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a coffee by the port or pick up a unique souvenir before heading back to the venue.Once back, settle in for lunch before diving into an afternoon of floral exercises, inspired by the reference photos and sketches you gathered during your trip to Lagos. Lori and Kenzie will guide you as you explore mixed media techniques to bring your floral designs to life. Play with layering textures and mixing colors to create expressive, vibrant pieces in unexpected ways.After your creative session, take a moment to unwind. Perhaps a dip in the pool or a quiet walk through the gardens will help you reflect on your progress. As evening falls, gather with your fellow artists for a delightful three-course dinner, prepared by the private chef, and toast to another inspiring day of creativity. ### Day 4: Art at the venue Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, sharing a lighthearted chat with your fellow artists before diving into your morning art session.The day begins with warm-up exercises, then you'll explore florals using the reductive art technique and loose watercolor methods with masking fluid. Experiment with mixing colors and using masking fluid in your floral designs. Discover how to blend bold lines with delicate florals, giving your artwork a unique and vibrant feel. Let the beautiful surroundings of the gardens inspire your creative flow.In the afternoon, focus on refining your use of mixed media. Dive deeper into the process of layering and combining different materials to achieve expressive, loose watercolor effects. Practice the reductive technique and mask out areas to create dynamic contrasts and textures. This time is yours to push boundaries and let your imagination bloom.As the day winds down, gather for a delectable three-course dinner, paired with a fine glass of wine. Reflect on the day's creative journey and connect with your new art family as you unwind, preparing for another inspiring day ahead. ### Day 5: Sailing trip Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on an exciting morning adventure aboard a traditional Portuguese sailboat.Arrive at the Lagos marina and hop onto the sailboat. Spend the morning sailing across the sparkling Atlantic waters, where the breeze and the rhythm of the waves will fuel your creativity. Capture reference photos of the rugged cliffs and hidden grottoes and the coastal formations that dot the shoreline. The interplay of the vibrant ocean blues and greens will spark new ideas for your designs.After returning to the venue, savor a refreshing lunch before diving into your afternoon session focused on writing and lettering exercises. Experiment with expressive, dynamic lettering styles as you play with rhythm and fluidity. Refine your skills as you discover new approaches to writing and lettering.Later, take a stroll through the serene gardens or relax before gathering for another exquisite dinner, perfectly paired with a glass of local Portuguese wine. ### Day 6: Art at the venue Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast, setting the tone for a creative day ahead. Afterward, join Lori and Kenzie for a focused session dedicated entirely to lettering exercises.Start with your usual warm-ups and get your hand and mind in sync for the flow of expressive lettering. Explore different lettering techniques and experiment with mixed media such as watercolor, acrylics, cut foam stamps, pens, and markers. Refine your strokes, swap different layouts, and craft beautiful, whimsical letterforms that reflect your personal touch.Enjoy a satisfying lunch, then return to the studio to continue your lettering practice. This session will further challenge you to experiment with form, style, and composition. Blend your own creativity with the techniques you’ve learned. With Lori and Kenzie's feedback, push your lettering skills and artistic boundaries to new heights.After your afternoon of creative exploration, unwind in the tranquil gardens or visit one of the nearby beaches. As the day draws to a close, gather with your fellow artists for another mouthwatering dinner prepared by the private chef, enjoyed under the moonlit sky with a glass of local wine. ### Day 7: Art at the venue Your final day at the venue begins with a delightful breakfast, setting the tone for a day of creativity and reflection.The morning session is all about bringing everything together. You'll have dedicated time for personal practice and development, allowing you to refine your florals and lettering. Under Lori and Kenzie’s guidance, continue working on your projects from the previous days, blending florals with expressive lettering in unique, unexpected ways. Let the colors, forms, and textures flow naturally. Your work will bloom with the discoveries you’ve made throughout the retreat.After a leisurely lunch, take part in an optional mini-exhibition. Showcase your creations from the week, sharing your progress with your fellow artists. It’s a wonderful chance to celebrate your growth and get encouraging feedback from Lori, Kenzie, and the group. Reflect on how far you’ve come and how your approach to florals and lettering has evolved.As the day draws to a close, gather with your group for a farewell three-course dinner, lovingly prepared by the private chef. Raise a glass to the friendships you’ve made and the inspiring artistic journey you’ve experienced, toasting to the many creative adventures that lie ahead. ### Day 8: Departure Join Lori, Kenzie, and your fellow participants for breakfast to share any last contact details, say your goodbyes, and get ready for your transfer to Faro Airport (FAO). Please note that check-out is at 10:00 AM. ## Instructors - **Lori Siebert** - Artist, designer. teacher - **Kenzie Elston** - Artist and graphic designer ## Accommodation ### Portuguese Quinta ### Shared room in the cottage ### Shared standard ensuite room ### Shared superior room - garden view ### Shared superior room - sea view (female only) ### Shared deluxe room - sea view ### Single room in the cottage ### Single deluxe master suite - sea view ## Book This Retreat Visit [https://uptrek.com/retreat/words-and-wildflowers-art-retreat-artists-lori-siebert-kenzie-elston-portugal](https://uptrek.com/retreat/words-and-wildflowers-art-retreat-artists-lori-siebert-kenzie-elston-portugal) to make a reservation. *Provided by [UpTrek](https://uptrek.com)*