Each day at the Spring Expressive Painting Retreat follows a natural rhythm designed to balance focused studio time, personal guidance, and space to recharge.
Mornings begin with a nourishing breakfast and a relaxed check-in with Jen, where the group gathers to talk through the day’s creative focus. From there, the studio comes alive as Jen demonstrates key elements of her expressive painting process—breaking down how she approaches gesture, underpainting, value structure, and the early stages of building a compelling composition. You’ll watch demonstrations up close before moving into your own work, where Jen circulates through the studio offering thoughtful one-on-one guidance.
After lunch together at the estate, the afternoon sessions continue with deeper exploration of your painting. You’ll refine your value story, strengthen your focal points, and develop the expressive marks that bring your subject to life. Throughout the week, you’ll also incorporate sketchbook practice—an important part of Jen’s creative process that helps artists loosen up, see more clearly, and develop confidence in their mark making.
As the day winds down, there’s time to step away from the easel—whether that means a walk by the lake, time in the sauna, or simply relaxing in the lounge spaces around the estate.
Evenings bring everyone back together for a shared dinner prepared by the retreat chef, followed by conversation, connection, and a limited cash bar offering hand-crafted cocktails. It’s a time to unwind, reflect on the day’s progress, and enjoy the company of fellow artists in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Each day at the Spring Expressive Painting Retreat follows a natural rhythm designed to balance focused studio time, personal guidance, and space to recharge.
Mornings begin with a nourishing breakfast and a relaxed check-in with Jen, where the group gathers to talk through the day’s creative focus. From there, the studio comes alive as Jen demonstrates key elements of her expressive painting process—breaking down how she approaches gesture, underpainting, value structure, and the early stages of building a compelling composition. You’ll watch demonstrations up close before moving into your own work, where Jen circulates through the studio offering thoughtful one-on-one guidance.
After lunch together at the estate, the afternoon sessions continue with deeper exploration of your painting. You’ll refine your value story, strengthen your focal points, and develop the expressive marks that bring your subject to life. Throughout the week, you’ll also incorporate sketchbook practice—an important part of Jen’s creative process that helps artists loosen up, see more clearly, and develop confidence in their mark making.
As the day winds down, there’s time to step away from the easel—whether that means a walk by the lake, time in the sauna, or simply relaxing in the lounge spaces around the estate.
Evenings bring everyone back together for a shared dinner prepared by the retreat chef, followed by conversation, connection, and a limited cash bar offering hand-crafted cocktails. It’s a time to unwind, reflect on the day’s progress, and enjoy the company of fellow artists in a relaxed, welcoming setting.