Upcoming dates:
Keep an eye out for future updates on upcoming events, or feel free to reach out via email for more information-.
Reconnect with nature and your inner creativity while forging new friendships. With brush in hand, immerse yourself in the art world under the expert guidance of renowned tutor Catarina Olefir






Suitable for beginner levels, the experience guarantees relaxation, confidence-building, and artistic inspiration. Painting partners are warmly invited to share in this creative journey.
Your painting experience
Discover the spirited nature of watercolour with Kate. Master your brushstrokes akin to a conductor’s baton, techniques to capture enchanting effects, and delve into tonal relationships.
We’ll explore the grisaille technique, portraying the world’s beauty in a single color. If it feels like a lot, fret not. The theory will seamlessly equip you with skills, ensuring you approach your next painting with confidence in a relaxed manner.
About your tutor
Self-taught, Kate Olefir gleaned insights from renowned watercolour masters worldwide. From Joseph Zbukvic, she mastered capturing atmosphere and mood. Inspired by Alvaro Castagnet, she learned swift decision-making and simplification for maximum impact. Michael Solovyev’s influence guided her in mixing magical colours and painting with a loose style. Now, generously, she shares these acquired knowledge and skills with you.
Kate has instructed students hailing from Canada, Australia, the USA, and Europe. As of 2024, her painted works are set to be exhibited in exhibitions spanning Spain, Italy, the USA, and Portugal.
Painting holiday schedule
Day 1: Exploring Watercolour Beauty (Full Day)
Dive into the expressive world of watercolour, mastering brushwork and exploring tonal relationships. Discover watercolour abstraction, exploring its flow influenced by technique and mood. Gain plenty of skills, setting you on your next painting with confidence.
Day 2: Playing with Colours (Full Day)
Explore the emotional impact of colours, inspired by Monet, Sargent, and van Gogh. Immerse yourself in nature, experimenting with various shades of green.
Day 3: From Sketch to Masterpiece on Plein-Air (Half Day)
Paint outdoors, drawing inspiration from Figs on the Funcho. Learn location selection, dealing with time constraints, changing sunlight, and unpredictable wind. Enjoy a wholesome vegetarian lunch under mature carob trees.
Paint a heartfelt masterpiece, guided by acquired knowledge. Enjoy an exhibition of your works, leaving with unforgettable emotions.
Yoga
Set against the serene backdrop of the Algarve’s tranquil landscape, unwind and rejuvenate with soothing end-of-day yoga sessions designed to complement your painting workshops. Led by a skilled yoga instructor, these gentle practices help release tension, improve flexibility, and restore balance to both body and mind. A perfect way to relax, reflect, and recharge after a creative day.

What To Expect
- Tuition: Enjoy 2 full days and 1 half-day of expert-led art workshops.
- Art Materials: All materials for the workshops are included. If you wish to paint during your free time, please bring your own supplies.
- Accommodation: Stay in spacious, comfortable rooms with single or double beds and shared bathrooms.
- Welcome Drinks: A warm and friendly start to your retreat.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided (alcoholic drinks are not included, but an honesty bar is available).
- Airport Transfers: Group transfers are included—pick-up from Faro Airport at 3 PM on arrival day and a group drop-off after breakfast on departure day. Additional airport transfers can be arranged at your expense.
- Towels: Bath and swimming pool towels are provided.
- Wifi: Reliable cable internet to stay connected.
- Yoga Sessions: Experience yoga, mindfulness, and serenity on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
Book your Plein Air Watercolour Painting & Yoga Holiday Retreat today:
Keep an eye out for future updates on upcoming events, or feel free to reach out via email for more information-.
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