Botanical Art & Nature Sketching Retreat with Wendy Hollender, Lara Call Gastinger, Giacomina Ferrillo, Jean Mackay & Vern Fannin at Ashokan 2025

Botanical Art & Nature Sketching Retreat at Ashokan

With Wendy Hollender, Lara Call Gastinger, Giacomina Ferrillo, Jean Mackay, & Vern Fannin

4 Days of Creativity, Connection & Inspiration in the Catskills

When: Friday, October 31 – Monday, November 3, 2025

Where: The Ashokan Center, Olivebridge NY

Who: Nature enthusiasts of ALL artistic skill levels, aspiring to advanced!

Escape to New York’s breathtaking mountains for an unforgettable four-day Botanical Art & Nature Sketching Retreat at the historic Ashokan Center. This immersive experience is designed for artists of all skill levels who want to deepen their connection with nature, refine their botanical art and sketching techniques, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow creatives.

What Awaits You

🌿 Learn from Renowned Instructors 

Join Wendy Hollender, Lara Call Gastinger, Giacomina Ferrillo, Jean Mackay, and Vern Fannin, all incredible botanical artists, for a mix of large-screen presentations and drawing demonstrations and intimate small-group sessions.

🎨 Hands-On Botanical Art & Nature Sketching Workshops 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, explore new skills in observational drawing, watercolor techniques, nature journaling, and color theory.

🍂 Explore & Sketch in Nature 

Stroll scenic trails, sketch bird nests and winter branches, gather leaves, seeds, and flowers to compose an autumn study page, and more.

🖌 Personalized Learning & Creative Freedom 

Select a schedule that inspires you most! You choose your sessions, so you can focus on what excites you—from crafting your own sketchbook to capturing delicate lichen and curling leaves.

🏕 Relax, Recharge & Connect 

Surrounded by fellow passionate artists, this retreat offers a welcoming, friendly atmosphere where you can create, share, and find inspiration in both nature and community… Learn more