Join artist Toby Haseler for an inspiring 7-day sketching retreat in the scenic heart of the Dordogne, France, running from September 5–11, 2026. Based at the tranquil Walnut Barn in Saint-Cybranet, you will build artistic confidence through daily outdoor sketching sessions, expert-led clinics, and delicious fully-catered regional meals.
Escape to the French countryside for an immersive, week-long creative retreat designed to help you capture landscapes, villages, and architecture with expressive confidence. Hosted at the beautifully restored Walnut Barn in Saint-Cybranet—just minutes from historic Sarlat-la-Canéda—this workshop combines structured art instruction with the relaxed, slow-paced charm of the Périgord region. With group sizes strictly limited to ten sketchers, you will benefit from personal, step-by-step guidance in a warm, unintimidating environment.
What You Will LearnLed by artist Toby Haseler, daily sessions begin with quick skill clinics before moving into structured en plein air painting across diverse locations. You will master:
Real-World Composition: Translating complex outdoor scenes into simple, effective page layouts.
Loose Line & Color: Combining expressive ink work with controlled watercolor washes to add depth and natural texture.
Outdoor Confidence: Learning to sketch comfortably on location—from quiet riverbanks to vibrant public squares—without feeling tied to perfectionism.
Retreat Highlights
Iconic Excursions: Sketch dramatic views of Beynac Château, the old stone bridge in Aillac, and the cliffside village of La Roque Gageac.
Sarlat Market: Practice perspective and street scenes in the historic medieval lanes of Sarlat during its famous Wednesday market.
Peaceful Setting: Enjoy gentle warm-up sessions along the river and relaxed sketching time on the scenic grounds of Walnut Barn.
What Is Included
7 days of daily workshops, clinics, and guided excursions (September 5–11, 2026).
All local group transport for workshops and excursions.
Comprehensive catering: daily breakfasts, picnic lunches, and three-course evening meals paired with local wines (excluding Sarlat market day lunch).
Access to venue-provided stools, drawing boards, and backup supplies.