After returning from a soul-stirring eight-day Surface Pattern Design Art Retreat in the tranquil and scenic hills of Teyssode, France, I’m still absorbing the depth of the experience. Nestled in the lush countryside at the enchanting Domaine d’en Naudet, the retreat offered more than a space to paint—it became a sacred gathering for creativity, reflection, and profound transformation. Co-hosting this journey with my dear friend and fellow artist Jeanetta Gonzales was a deeply fulfilling collaboration.
Each day brought an unfolding of inner revelations and artistic breakthroughs. Our time was filled not only with painting and design, but also introspective exploration, laughter, shared stories, and a rejuvenating sense of creative liberation. The retreat reminded us that artistry is not only about techniques or aesthetics; it’s about tuning into who we are at our core.
As we walked through fields of inspiration and sat under golden light sketching, I was constantly reminded of the healing nature of artistic expression. It was a space where we gave ourselves permission to step fully into our identities as creatives—without comparison, without judgment, and without constraints.
Jessi & Jeanetta
P.S. If your heart is calling for a similar experience, don’t miss our next retreat in October 2024—we’re headed to magical Morocco for another life-changing creative adventure.
A Creative Journey Begins in the Heart of Southern France
The winding roads of the Tarn countryside brought with them a sense of renewal, as our retreat guests made their way to Domaine d’en Naudet, a serene haven surrounded by emerald fields and lavender-scented breezes. This moment marked the official beginning of our eight-day Surface Pattern Design Art Retreat, nestled in the enchanting commune of Teyssode. The energy that built throughout the day felt like the quiet thrill before the overture of a symphony—something extraordinary was about to unfold.
Our group consisted of sixteen remarkable women from across the world. Thirteen hailed from the United States, while one traveled from the United Kingdom and two ventured from Australia, bringing with them stories, experiences, and an open-hearted willingness to explore both their creative potential and their deeper selves. From seasoned surface designers to passionate painters, textile lovers, and those who had only just started dipping their brushes into acrylics or watercolors, each person arrived with her own unique journey. And yet, the common thread binding everyone was a desire to reconnect—with their art, their voice, and a likeminded community that could hold space for experimentation and growth.
As our shuttle navigated through the sun-dappled landscape, I felt a wave of anticipation rise. The messages exchanged in the weeks leading up to the retreat now came to life as faces beamed from the shuttle windows. The air was thick with excitement, nerves, and that sweet vulnerability that often comes just before a leap into something meaningful. A photo texted to me moments before their arrival captured a flurry of joy, laughter, and radiant energy—proof that the retreat’s magic had already begun before the first paint tube was even opened.
Domaine d’en Naudet: A Space Made for Creative Restoration
The venue, Domaine d’en Naudet, was more than just a beautiful estate—it was a refuge designed to nourish. Owned and lovingly curated by Sophie and Nicholas, the property offered an idyllic blend of rustic charm and refined elegance. Golden sunlight poured over stone cottages, the scent of rosemary and pine wafted through the air, and the gentle rhythm of countryside life wrapped around us like a soft shawl. This place was made for slowing down, reflecting, and letting inspiration take root.
Upon arrival, guests were given time to settle into their rooms—each uniquely appointed with cozy linens, French antiques, and windows overlooking hills that rolled endlessly into the horizon. Laughter echoed through the courtyard as new friendships began forming instantly, unimpeded by titles, skill levels, or experience. What mattered here was the creative spark—the willingness to show up, be present, and dive into the experience without pretense.
That evening, we gathered for a candlelit welcome dinner beneath a sky streaked with blush and amber hues. Sophie and Nicholas prepared a meal that was nothing short of poetic—locally sourced vegetables, rich cheeses, delicate pastries, and flowing carafes of wine served with warmth and grace. It was our first shared meal as a group, and it felt sacred. Conversation flowed as easily as the rosé, with guests sharing stories about what brought them to this retreat. There was laughter, yes, but also a quiet depth—a sense of shared understanding that we were all here to do more than just paint. We were here to reconnect with the creative parts of ourselves that often get buried beneath obligation and routine.
The Birth of a Creative Community
By the end of the evening, something subtle but powerful had occurred. The nerves and hesitations that may have existed just hours before had dissolved. In their place was a gentle camaraderie that would only deepen in the days to come. We were no longer sixteen separate artists—we were a collective, woven together by shared intention.
There’s a certain vulnerability in traveling across the world to pursue a creative dream. Some guests confessed they hadn’t picked up a brush in years. Others had never traveled internationally before. Still, each one arrived with an unspoken bravery—an openness to experience something profound, even if they couldn’t quite put their finger on what that would be. And that willingness to be both curious and courageous became the very foundation of our week together.
What amazed me most was how quickly the walls came down. Perhaps it was the setting, perhaps the supportive atmosphere, or perhaps it was simply the act of gathering around a shared passion—but whatever the reason, our retreat family came together in a way that felt destined. As we lingered over dessert, exchanging stories and artistic aspirations, it was clear that the retreat had already begun to do its work. We were being softened, opened, and inspired by each other in ways that would continue to unfold throughout the week.
Setting the Tone for an Inspired Week
The first day of any creative retreat is about more than logistics or check-ins—it’s about intention. It’s about establishing the emotional and energetic environment that will guide the days ahead. And on this particular evening in the south of France, as cicadas hummed in the distance and our laughter filled the twilight air, I knew in my heart that we had cultivated something truly special.
We talked about our hopes—not just for the art we’d create, but for the clarity, renewal, and community we hoped to find. This wasn’t a retreat that demanded results or deliverables. It asked only that we show up, be present, and create from the truest parts of ourselves. And as we passed around warm bread and toasted to new beginnings, a quiet understanding took root: this week would be about more than canvas and color. It would be about returning to the essence of who we are when the world is quiet, when we are surrounded by support, and when we are finally, mercifully, given the space to breathe.
As the stars emerged over the vineyard-covered hills, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Hosting this retreat, welcoming these artists, and witnessing the very first sparks of transformation was a privilege I will never take for granted. This was only the beginning—but already, it was more than I had hoped for.
The stage was set, the brushes ready, the hearts open. What awaited us was not just a schedule of workshops or excursions—it was a creative unfolding, a shared exploration into what it means to live—and create—authentically.
Embracing Spontaneity in a Rustic Studio Sanctuary
Stepping into the barn at Domaine d’en Naudet was like stepping into another dimension—one where time slowed down, self-doubt dissolved, and the creative process flowed freely. This charming, timber-framed structure, nestled in the heart of the estate, quickly became our artistic refuge. Its wooden beams, stone walls, and sunlit windows created an ambiance that invited introspection and experimentation. It wasn’t just a studio; it was a sacred space where imagination could take flight.
Accessible around the clock, the studio offered flexibility and freedom. Early in the morning, the sound of birdsong would accompany the soft scratch of pencil on paper. By night, the warm glow of lanterns cast long shadows on easels, while a quiet camaraderie built among those who stayed behind to keep painting after dinner. This rhythm was essential—it allowed everyone to work at their own pace, driven by their personal flow rather than an imposed schedule.
Within this creative atmosphere, our first workshop unfolded: an abstract painting session designed to liberate and rejuvenate. The goal was not technical mastery or polished output. Instead, we encouraged our guests to explore instinctive mark-making, to release expectations, and to dive into the raw joy of movement and color.
Discovering Creative Freedom Through Abstract Expression
The abstract painting exercise became a pivotal moment for many attendees. Using high-quality acrylic paints, a range of brushes, and thick paper engineered for durability, our artists began to rediscover their own language of expression. They swirled vivid pigments together, scraped layers away, and worked with texture in ways they hadn’t tried before. For some, it was their first experience with letting go of the idea of "finished" art and embracing process over product.
What emerged from the session was nothing short of magic. Canvases blossomed with bold hues, emotive shapes, and unexpected juxtapositions. These were not mere paintings—they were visual declarations of freedom. Each guest interpreted the workshop through her own lens, some using color to express joy, others channeling emotion into their compositions. In removing the pressure to "get it right," they found deeper meaning in the act of simply creating.
One guest, a designer from New York, described it as a “return to childhood curiosity.” Another, a self-taught artist from Melbourne, confessed she hadn’t touched acrylics in over a decade—and now couldn’t wait to dive deeper into abstraction. Their discoveries were personal, but also collective. As we walked around the room, offering quiet encouragement and witnessing each stage of experimentation, there was a tangible sense of shared empowerment.
The Joy of Receiving and Creating With Intention
The moment our guests stepped into the barn on that first morning, they were met with an intentional offering of joy. Each workstation was thoughtfully curated to celebrate color, creativity, and personal expression. From the delicately folded aprons to the vivid stainless-steel water bottles and hand-lettered tote bags, every detail was designed to delight and inspire.
But these gifts were more than just functional tools. They symbolized the retreat’s spirit—thoughtful, vibrant, and deeply nurturing. The carefully selected art supplies included richly pigmented paints, smooth-flowing acrylic inks, and sturdy mixed-media paper, ensuring that every artist—regardless of skill level—had the materials they needed to feel supported in their exploration.
As the painting session progressed, it was evident how these tools empowered our guests to stretch beyond their usual methods. The tactile pleasure of mixing colors, the weight of a high-quality brush, and the smooth resistance of premium paper all contributed to a deeply sensory experience. Artists often overlook the importance of materials in cultivating presence, but this day was a reminder that the right tools are catalysts for creative freedom.
And yet, what truly elevated the experience was the collective energy in the space. Strangers became collaborators. Conversations blossomed about art history, childhood memories, and personal creative blocks. Encouragement was shared freely, and laughter echoed between brushstrokes. It was the kind of spontaneous community that only arises when people feel safe enough to let their guards down.
A Toast to the Region: Immersion Through Local Flavor
After an emotionally fulfilling morning, we transitioned into a new kind of sensory exploration—one grounded in the rich traditions of the French countryside. That afternoon, we embarked on a scenic visit to a nearby winery, a hidden gem nestled among vineyards that stretched endlessly across rolling hills. The journey itself was serene, with winding roads lined by cypress trees and the scent of wild herbs carried on the breeze.
Arriving at the winery, we were greeted with the warmth that characterizes southern French hospitality. Our group was given a private tour of the estate, where we learned about the winemaking process, the region’s unique terroir, and the stories that had shaped the land for generations. The connection between art and wine became unmistakably clear—both are slow crafts, both require patience, intuition, and the courage to evolve.
Under a vine-covered pergola, we sampled rosés, reds, and whites, each with distinct character and aroma. Paired with rustic cheeses, olives, and crusty baguettes, the tasting became an experience in itself. We lingered in conversation, soaking in the sights and sounds of rural France. Some guests brought sketchbooks and jotted down notes or captured the vineyard vistas with quick ink sketches. Others simply reclined, savoring the moment.
It was in this effortless blend of art and culture that the spirit of the retreat fully bloomed. The contrast between the freeform creativity of the morning and the rooted, grounded beauty of the afternoon illustrated the holistic nature of the experience. We were here not only to paint but to immerse ourselves—to become part of the landscape, to draw inspiration from place, and to taste life through every available sense.
A Day of Inspiration in the Botanical Heart of Southwest France
Day three of our retreat was a celebration of sensory beauty and artistic mindfulness. We set out for Jardins de Martels, an exquisite botanical garden nestled in the rolling hills of southern France. As we arrived, the air was filled with floral fragrance, the soft buzzing of bees, and the gentle trickle of water from the garden’s many fountains. With its labyrinthine pathways, vibrant flower beds, and serene koi ponds, the garden felt like a living canvas—designed to awaken creativity and provide an unending source of artistic inspiration.
Our guests wandered at their own pace, soaking in the garden’s abundance. Some photographed the intricate veining on lotus leaves, others captured sweeping views of lily-lined ponds, while a few found secluded corners to sketch under the dappled shade of towering bamboo. Every path led to a new vignette—lush ferns unfurling in a humid greenhouse, sunflowers craning toward the light, orchids bursting with vibrant pigment. For many of us, it was more than a visual feast—it was an emotional experience, a rare opportunity to engage deeply with the quiet power of nature.
This excursion was designed not just to inspire the eye, but to realign the mind. We encouraged our guests to view the garden not as a checklist of sights, but as a conversation between the natural world and their inner landscapes. Through deliberate observation and silence, the external world became a mirror for introspection. Artists returned to the retreat center feeling refreshed, grounded, and brimming with creative fuel.
Translating Natural Beauty Into Watercolor Expression
Once back at our cozy studio barn, still buzzing with impressions from the gardens, we transitioned into a meditative watercolor session. Jeanetta led the group through a gentle workshop that emphasized interpretation over imitation. Watercolor, with its translucency and unpredictability, was the perfect medium for expressing the subtleties of nature—the fade of a petal, the movement of a breeze, the delicate curve of a leaf.
With soft brushes in hand and palettes filled with earthy tones, guests began translating their garden experiences into visual poetry. The results were diverse and intimate. Some pieces leaned toward abstraction, capturing the rhythm of the garden rather than its literal details. Others embraced a botanical illustration style, filled with precision and care. Regardless of style, the common thread was presence—every mark on the page was a product of attentiveness, of being truly alive in the moment.
For many attendees, watercolor was a medium they had long admired from afar but hadn’t dared to approach. This workshop offered a safe, supportive space to experiment with layering, glazing, and blending—techniques that are as much about patience as they are about pigment. Watching colors bloom across paper in unpredictable ways allowed our artists to relinquish control, which was its own kind of creative freedom.
The environment played a significant role as well. As light filtered through the barn’s antique windows and birds sang in the distance, the session felt both grounded and elevated. These hours reminded us that art, when created from a place of peace and presence, becomes not just an object but a trace of lived experience.
Studio Immersion: Crafting Intentional Surface Design
Following our day of garden immersion and watercolor reflection, we entered the most creatively productive stretch of the retreat. Days four and five were dedicated to studio time—unstructured, uninterrupted, and deeply personal. There’s something profoundly rare about having long, open hours to paint without distraction. It’s a luxury in modern life, and one that our guests embraced with quiet focus and enthusiasm.
The barn transformed into a vibrant hive of activity. Workstations overflowed with swatches, sketches, and in-progress pieces. Some participants gravitated toward large canvases, exploring sweeping gestures and expressive textures. Others chose to work on modular components for pattern building, turning painted motifs into layered surface design collections.
As part of our retreat’s core offering, Jeanetta and I provided personalized mentoring throughout the day. We floated between easels, offering insights, demonstrating techniques, and helping artists explore how their work could translate into surface pattern collections suitable for textiles, stationery, and licensing opportunities. We talked through everything from creating cohesive visual narratives to understanding repeat structure fundamentals and refining one’s artistic voice.
What emerged was extraordinary. Each guest began assembling a body of work that felt authentic, intentional, and uniquely their own. Some focused on florals with hidden symbolism. Others built abstract compositions with bold repetition and harmonious palettes. No two collections looked the same, and yet each reflected the deep work of artistic self-discovery that had been unfolding throughout the retreat.
Building Confidence, Community, and Creative Momentum
More than just a space to make art, the studio became a crucible for transformation. As guests worked side by side, conversations flowed easily—about creative process, personal growth, professional aspirations, and the sometimes winding road of being a modern artist. This atmosphere of vulnerability and encouragement helped dissolve creative blocks. There was no fear of “getting it wrong,” only the joy of following instinct and trusting the evolution of one’s ideas.
We saw a powerful shift in our guests—not only in their technical development but in their confidence. Artists who arrived uncertain about their work began to speak about their collections with clarity and conviction. Sketches became paintings, patterns became prints, and ideas once floating vaguely in the background came into sharp, expressive focus. These weren’t just artworks; they were creative declarations of identity.
What made this period even more meaningful was the support system that organically formed within the group. Guests began collaborating, offering critiques, and celebrating one another’s breakthroughs. That sense of artistic camaraderie was a thread woven throughout the week, and during these two studio-focused days, it became especially strong.
As day five came to a close, we took a moment to pause and reflect. Looking around the barn, now brimming with original artwork, it was clear that something special had taken root. Our guests weren’t just taking home paintings—they were taking home a renewed sense of self, a stronger connection to their practice, and a community that had come to feel like family.
Immersing in History and Art in the Medieval Town of Albi
On the sixth day of our retreat, we stepped away from the paint-splashed barn and ventured into the historic heart of Albi—a beautifully preserved medieval town in the Occitanie region of southern France. This enriching cultural excursion provided a welcome shift in perspective and brought fresh inspiration to our creative minds.
As we entered Albi, its cobbled alleys, terracotta rooftops, and pastel-hued buildings welcomed us with timeless charm. Every element of the town, from the colorful shutters to the stone archways draped in ivy, seemed composed like a work of art. Its energy was both tranquil and inspiring, making it the ideal backdrop for visual storytelling.
Our day began at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, situated inside the grand Palais de la Berbie overlooking the Tarn River. This impressive structure, once a medieval fortress, now holds the world’s most significant collection of works by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, a boundary-breaking artist who was born in Albi. Walking through the galleries, we were drawn into Lautrec’s world—one of movement, emotion, and unfiltered honesty. His vibrant posters, sensitive sketches, and emotionally charged portraits reminded us that authenticity often surpasses perfection in visual storytelling.
Guests lingered in front of his pieces, absorbing every mark and color choice. There was something quietly powerful about being in the presence of artwork that had changed the landscape of modern art. Many guests mentioned later how much the experience had stirred their creative direction, inspiring them to take more risks with their own work.
A Leisurely Day of Discovery and Delight
After our morning at the museum, we wandered toward the riverbanks, guided by the gentle murmur of water and the rhythmic footsteps over cobblestones. The pace was slow and intentional, as we soaked in the town’s atmosphere. Flower boxes lined windowsills, and street musicians played gentle tunes that mingled with the scent of pastries wafting from nearby bakeries.
We dined at Robinson’s, a hidden garden café nestled beneath a canopy of trees. The setting was serene and lush, a tapestry of textures and colors that felt curated by nature itself. Lunch was light and flavorful, with plates filled with locally grown vegetables, fresh herbs, and handmade desserts. Conversation flowed easily, laughter rising above the rustle of leaves. We shared reflections on what had surprised us during the week and what we hoped to carry home in our creative practices.
Following the meal, the afternoon was left open for self-guided exploration. Some guests meandered through artisan markets, browsing hand-loomed fabrics, regional ceramics, and naturally dyed textiles. Others perched on benches with sketchbooks, capturing architectural vignettes and local life with quick, expressive lines.
Several artists made their way to the Albi Cathedral, Sainte-Cécile, one of the largest brick buildings in the world. Its exterior exuded stoic strength, while inside, the cathedral revealed breathtaking intricacy—vaulted ceilings adorned with painted frescoes, hand-carved choir stalls, and golden ornamentation that sparkled in the candlelight. For many, standing inside this sacred space evoked awe and a deeper reverence for craftsmanship as spiritual practice.
The entire day served as a rejuvenating counterpoint to our studio immersion. By engaging with the cultural and historical richness of Albi, our guests returned with broadened vision and renewed creative fuel.
Celebrating Growth and Creativity on Our Final Day
The final day of our retreat dawned with soft light and a sense of reflective calm. After six days of exploration, creativity, and connection, there was a collective desire to savor every last moment. Guests arrived at the studio with quiet purpose, ready to complete their final works and prepare for the closing sessions.
The atmosphere inside the barn was one of reverence. Tables were filled with patterns, paintings, color swatches, and sketches in progress. The energy was focused, but without pressure. Artists moved with the gentle confidence that comes from a week of deepened skill and meaningful self-expression.
Throughout the day, Jeanetta and I met with each guest for individual reviews. These personalized sessions offered a chance to reflect on each artist’s journey, provide constructive insights, and discuss next steps. Whether the goal was to continue building a surface pattern collection, submit to an art licensing agency, or simply maintain a regular creative practice, each conversation was rooted in encouragement and real, practical feedback.
The transformations we witnessed during these final meetings were striking. Artists who had arrived questioning their creative voice were now confidently presenting cohesive, intentional collections. There was pride in their work, not just in the outcome, but in the process that had brought them there.
A Farewell Marked by Gratitude, Art, and Lasting Bonds
As golden hour light spilled into the courtyard, we gathered one last time as a group. The studio was transformed into a gallery space, each artist displaying their favorite pieces from the week. Walking through the exhibit, it was impossible not to feel moved by the emotional and visual depth on display. Every piece told a story—not just of technique, but of trust, vulnerability, and growth.
Before dinner, we shared a heartfelt surprise for our hosts, Sophie and Nicholas. Each guest had contributed a small painted element to a collaborative artwork—a symbolic thank-you for their warmth, generosity, and for opening their home to our artistic family. Presenting this piece was one of the most meaningful moments of the retreat. It captured the collective energy and beauty of our time together.
Dinner that night was a blend of celebration and soft nostalgia. There was joy, certainly, but also a gentle sadness at the thought of parting ways. The bonds formed during this week felt rooted in something much deeper than casual acquaintance. We had created a space where every voice mattered, where art was an act of connection, and where being seen and heard became as valuable as any finished canvas.
As guests exchanged contact details, future collaboration ideas, and hugs under the moonlit sky, it became clear that this retreat would ripple far beyond these eight days. Friendships were forged. Artistic paths were clarified. Confidence was rebuilt.
Leaving the retreat wasn’t an end—it was a beginning. A launch point back into the world with renewed vision, tools to grow, and a creative fire rekindled.
Final Thoughts
As I sit here processing everything this retreat gave us, I’m struck by how deeply transformative a week of focused creativity and connection can be. What we experienced together in Teyssode was not simply a retreat in the traditional sense—it was a return to self, a rediscovery of voice, and a gentle but powerful reawakening of artistic identity.
Art has always been a mirror to the soul, and during these eight days, we allowed ourselves to look into that mirror with kindness, curiosity, and courage. Every brushstroke told a story. Every conversation over wine or while mixing paint deepened our sense of belonging—not just within a group, but within ourselves.
What stood out the most was how safe it felt to be vulnerable here. In our world that so often praises perfection and productivity, it was radical to slow down and simply create for the joy of it. No metrics. No pressure. Just pure process. Watching each guest shed expectations and embrace their instincts was the most beautiful unfolding. It reminded me how necessary it is to take space from the noise, to tune out distractions, and immerse ourselves fully in the act of creating.
Beyond the art, the most lasting gift of this retreat was the relationships we built. We arrived as strangers—some nervous, some shy, some eager—and left as friends, collaborators, and cheerleaders for one another’s dreams. These connections weren’t surface-level; they were rooted in shared creativity, mutual encouragement, and the brave act of showing up as our full selves.
This retreat reaffirmed what I’ve long believed: creative community is essential nourishment for the soul. It doesn’t matter where you are on your artistic path—whether you’re a beginner or a professional—what matters is that you continue to carve out time to reconnect with what lights you up inside.
As we close this chapter and look toward Morocco in October 2024, my heart feels full. I carry with me the images of laughter in the barn, paint-covered aprons, late-night chats, and the unshakable belief that creativity, when nurtured in community, becomes something truly magical.
