Watercolor Art Retreat in Marrakech, Morocco

Join me for an unforgettable painting holiday in Marrakech.

Picture this: seven sun-soaked days based in a gorgeous Marrakech domaine, where we’ll balance painting time with adventures into the city and countryside. Think vibrant souks, exciting bazaars, intricate tiles, warm light, and landscapes begging to be sketched. It’s exotic, colourful, and a whole new cultural playground for your sketchbook.

Come ready for colour, culture, and creativity — Morocco style.

Here's what to look forward to...

This retreat is all about balance — time to dive into painting, time to soak up Morocco’s colours and culture, and time to just breathe it all in. We’ll mix relaxed painting sessions at home with inspiring excursions, so your sketchbook fills up as naturally as your photo roll. And of course, there will be room for downtime (because sun loungers and mint tea deserve a place in the schedule too).

• Painting sessions “at home” for drawing and watercolour skills
• Plein air painting (of course!)
• Excursions that feed both your sketchbook and your soul
• Luxurious accommodation with space to unwind
• Delicious food, laughter, and maybe experiencing something you’ve never done before

We paint OUTSIDE – that's where the magic happens

This is about capturing life as it unfolds. Our focus is plein air watercolor sketching – setting up in the souks, tranquil gardens or in the countryside outside Marrakech, and putting the memories straight into our sketchbooks.

In a encouraging atmosphere, with plenty of laughter, and the day to day details all taken care of, I promise you'll leave Morocco with a sketchbook bursting with memories and the confidence to paint anywhere, anytime.

Back at 'home' there's gorgeous 24/7 studio for demos, skills practise or for when inspiration strikes at midnight.

What makes this art retreat special: small groups, big impact

Small group sizes mean I have ample time to help each person every day. You'll receive:

• Daily one-on-one feedback tailored to your level and goals
• Step-by-step demonstrations showing my process and decisions
• Personal guidance on color, composition, and perspective
• Encouragement to be brave and try things outside your comfort zone

Everything taken care of

Whether you’re coming with paints in hand or just a curious heart, this week is about more than sketching — it’s about experiences you’ll carry home long after the trip. The Perigord Retreats team has explored Marrakech with us in mind - they've found us wonderful places to visit and sketch. They'll make sure everything runs smoothly, so you’re free to dive in, soak it up, and paint your own Moroccan story. Exciting!

Cost includes - pretty much everything!

• Daily trips to tailored locations chosen by the artist for their group.
• Every day you will receive group and one-to-one tuition outside or in the studio in the form of demonstrations and individual feedback.
• Fresh baked goods, fresh fruit salads & continental style breakfasts every day. Locally produced, freshly cooked lunches and evening meals. We will visit a couple of restaurants.
• 7 Nights lodging on our luxurious domaine with use of the heated swimming pool as well as access to the olive grove and surrounding property.
• Not included are your flights to Marrakech or travel insurance.

What you'll learn: watercolor skills that travel with you

This retreat is for watercolor enthusiasts of all levels – whether you're a complete beginner or have experience but want to grow your confidence painting on location.

Core skills you'll develop:

• How to become confident painting en plein air with minimal materials
• How to choose what scene to paint (when everything is so beautiful!)
• Working with a limited watercolor palette for harmony and cohesiveness
• Understanding perspective (and not being afraid of it!)
• Capturing light, shadow, and atmosphere quickly
• Creating loose, expressive sketches that capture the feeling of a place
• Building a visual travel journal, that reflects your personality, and that you'll treasure forever

Beyond technique:

This retreat is about more than just improving your painting skills. There's a magic combination of shared meals, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Friendships form here and they'll feel like they'll last a lifetime.

Want to see my teaching style in action? Here's a full painting demo from a previous art retreat...

I'm passionate about travel sketching

For 18 years, I've never traveled anywhere without a sketchbook. What started as a side hobby on a climbing trip to Spain and France completely transformed how I experience the world. Now I have a massive stack of sketchbooks filled with priceless memories – villages, landscapes, flowers, food, people, and little notes that transport me straight back to those moments.

Since 2007, I've spent about 6 months a year in Europe and now I live in Spain, and sketching outside has immersed me in places in ways I never could have imagined. It's created vivid memories and allowed me to meet so many locals I wouldn't have encountered otherwise.

I've been teaching watercolor since 2017. My approach is simple: I want to make you braver. Whether you're nervous about painting in public, unsure about color mixing, or intimidated by perspective, I'll guide you through it with patience, encouragement, and practical demonstrations. By the end of our time together, you'll be the artist who never travels without a sketchbook.

Frequently asked questions

What level of experience do I need?
All levels welcome! Whether you're a complete beginner or experienced painter, you'll receive personalized guidance suited to your skill level.

What watercolor supplies do I need to bring?
A detailed supply list will be provided upon booking. We focus on painting with minimal, portable materials – perfect for travel sketching.

What's the weather like in the Marrakech in late February?
Late February is lovely! Expect mild, sunny days (17–22°C / 63–72°F), comfortable for outdoor painting and exploring. Evenings can be cooler, and there’s a small chance of rain, so we also have indoor studio space available as a backup.

Can my partner come if they don't paint?
Absolutely! Non-painting partners are welcome and always have a great time. They'll join us on the excursions, and while we paint they'll be free to explore. At the domaine there's a swimming pool to relax next to and the grounds to enjoy.

How do I get to Marrakech?
From the United States and Canada, there are some direct options — for example flights from Newark (New York) and a new seasonal Atlanta to Marrakech route — plus many one-stop routes via major European hubs like Madrid, Paris or London, making the journey straightforward from most North American cities.
You'll be picked up at RAK and taken to our accommodation — no navigating taxis or luggage logistics yourself.

What if I've never painted en plein air before?
Great! This is the perfect place to start :-) I'll teach you everything you need to know to feel confident painting on location.