ELEMENTAL: The Art of Noticing Watercolor Painting Retreat with Leslie Baum. 

Follow your own personal making arc on this contemplative watercolor painting retreat at Red Clover Ranch, a 79 acre retreat center hidden down a gravel road in the enchanting Driftless region of southwest Wisconsin. Experience plein air painting as an expansive practice, one that encompasses more than rendering a view. Paint in response to Leslie’s invitations - prompts designed to foster connection to the late summer landscape. This year's focus is on the 4 elements: earth, water, air, and fire. Explore your relationship with them. Watercolor by firelight. Mix creek water into your paint. Dig in the dirt. Observe as the wind moves through the willows. Discover the varied colors of the soil, the shapes of plant life, and the moods of the valley’s atmosphere. Embrace the full creative potential slowing down and being present. Enjoy guided and independent painting time, opportunities to share work, connection with a naturalist, serene lodging, sauna time, farm-to-table meals cooked in our wood burning oven, and morning yoga.

There are both single and shared rooms available. Fees include lodging, all meals, welcome seasonal cocktail/mocktail, morning coffee and tea service, instruction and guidance form Leslie Baum, morning yoga, and a special guest naturalist visit.

Want to know more? Listen to our conversation with Leslie about her thoughts on making, why she’s drawn to plein air, and this retreat.