A Centuries-old Approach to the Portrait
In this three-night retreat, students will study and practice centuries-old portraiture with internationally celebrated instructors. Tyler Berry and Chelsea Bard will guide students by offering presentations, demonstration, discussions, and individual critiques. Students of all skill levels are encouraged to join.
Model sessions from 3-hour to 6-hour poses will be included. Each portrait will begin with the block-in stage, which aims to capture accurate proportion, shape design and structural anatomy. After the block-in, students will move into creating form through an understanding of the light source.
Fee options:
Single occupancy: $1,485 per person. Includes accommodation, meals, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. State meals and room tax is not included and will be added at checkout.
Double occupancy (for couples or friends): $995 per person. Includes accommodation, meals, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. State meals and room tax is not included and will be added at checkout. Please reserve online at the link below or by calling 802-380-4939.
Commuter: $695 per person. Includes lunches, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. State tax is not included and will be added at checkout. Please reserve by calling 802-380-4939.
Want to stay longer? Extend your stay!
Willow encourages retreat participants who wish to stay in the area longer to book rooms or book the treehouse on nights before and after the retreat at sharply reduced rates. Extended bookings include a hearty continental breakfast.
Individual rooms are $135-185/night for up to two people. A discount of 15% applies to bookings of 3 or more nights.
We offer a seven-night single occupancy rate of $685 in selected rooms, subject to availability.
Proportion, shape and structure
The workshop will cover fundamentals of blocking the portrait
Careful Observation
Painting and drawing with emphasis on likeness through careful observation
The Schedule
Arrival Day
Arrive between 12pm and 2pm. Get settled into your room and gather at 3pm in Willow’s studio for the first workshop. This session will feature a three hour pose. Both instructors will teach and demonstrate for the first hour. For the remainder of the first session, Tyler will teach and critique as Chelsea continues to demo. An evening meal is provided.
Full Day Workshops
With each day, you will begin a new portrait of six hours in duration. The final portrait, on Saturday, will continue for an extra three hours into the final half day workshop on Sunday. The instructors will alternate offering instruction and demonstration throughout each day. Structure, anatomy, likeness, and materials will be discussed. Meals will be provided and free time after the afternoon session will allow you and other students to go on self-planned excursions in Southern Vermont (Willow has many recommendations to choose from).
Departure day
Wake up to a light breakfast followed by a concluding workshop from 9am to 12pm to finish up the final Saturday portrait. Enjoy midday brunch in the family-style dining room followed by a brief session to review and critique your work. Head home at 3pm with a renewed focus on drawing the portrait.
Experienced Models
Everything you need for a successful workshop is included. Arrive and begin working the first day.
Drawing from Life
Structure, anatomy, likeness, and materials will be discussed
Rooms and Amenities at Willow
Willow provides comfortable overnight accommodations in double occupancy rooms. All rooms have dedicated ensuite or hall baths. We are outfitted with all the comforts of a typical guest house — linens, blowdryers, individually controlled heating and air conditioning. Our mattresses, pillows and furniture are exceptionally comfortable. Our soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and lotions are organic. We support local craftspeople by supplying Willow with handmade and high quality goods — everything from lamps to rugs have been made by hand. You will feel very much at home.
Meals at Willow
Meals are provided throughout the retreat. Our meals are healthy and filling, made of local organic and natural ingredients. Please let us know if you prefer vegetarian or gluten free options. Please let us know if you have any food allergies.
Area Attractions
Willow is located in the foothills of the Green Mountains on 5 acres of open space. The property abuts several hundred acres of woods with hiking trails. The property has a large pond, hillside garden, fire pit, and a large south-facing porch for lounging and gathering.
You will have time for optional area excursions in afternoons and evenings. On request, we would be happy to organize a group excursion. More information on amenities and area attractions is offered on our website.
Light and form
Create form and shape through an understanding of the light source
What to Bring
Drawing or painting supplies
Shoes: house slippers, studio shoes, outdoor shoes
Hiking shoes and clothing
Flashlight or headlamp for evening walks
