I started painting as a way to connect on a heart and soul level with others, and nothing is more important to me than continuing to foster community between artists and friends. Each year, I do 1-2 in-person art retreats in beautiful settings with delicious food and lots of studio and sharing time! Here are my current retreat offerings for 2025-2026. Click on the links to each retreat to learn more and to register with our hosts' sites!
2026
Cathy Nichols & Kate Sydney Painting & Jewelry
July 8-17, 2026
Perigord, FRANCE
This will be my 3rd workshop with these delightful hosts, and I just know you will adore your time with us in their Perigord Paradise. We will paint gorgeous florals and embrace our creativity as I teach you how to build up colorful, engaging layers using simple, expressive techniques.
Périgord, France, July 8-17, 2026
Join artist Cathy Nichols and jewelry designer Kate Sydney for a once-in-a-lifetime creative retreat in the storybook landscape of Périgord, France. This unique collaboration invites you to slow down, soak in the magic of the French countryside, and transform your inspiration into lasting works of art—from layered botanical paintings to elegant handcrafted jewelry.
In this immersive retreat, Cathy will guide you through her signature mixed media process to create deeply expressive, layered botanical paintings inspired by the wildflowers, gardens, and gentle rhythms of rural France. Using a joyful combination of acrylics, collage, and mark-making, you’ll explore color theory, intuitive composition, and the beauty of imperfection as you capture your personal sense of place on canvas.
Then, with her years of craftsmanship and love for natural beauty, Kate Sydney will help you bring your artwork to life in a new and unexpected way—by transforming a painting into a stunning, wearable pendant. You'll also learn to design coordinating beaded earrings using semi-precious gems and the art of wire-tying, adding sparkle and movement to your finished jewelry set. Kate's calm, encouraging presence and deep knowledge of jewelry techniques will make even beginners feel confident and inspired.
Whether you're an experienced artist or simply craving a creative escape, this retreat offers a chance to connect deeply—with nature, with your art, and with a community of kindred spirits. Come away with not just a suitcase full of memories, but artwork and jewelry that carry the soul of France home with you.