Guest Workshops at Bluebird Hill Retreat
Anne Blair Brown and guest artists from around the U.S. host day-long and mutli-day painting workshops at our beautiful venue.
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To view our 2026 schedule, please scroll down.
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Interested in taking an online course with Anne Blair Brown? Please go to Anne’s website.
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Interested in hosting your own workshop or retreat? Reach out to Anne for booking details and availability.
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Anne Blair Brown
Mastering Acrylics
April 22–24, 2026
Cost: $695
A deposit of $250 will secure your spot.
Skill Level: Plein air painting experience required.

Step away from toxic chemicals, long drying times, and messy clean up! Discover the wonders of painting and traveling with Acrylics. Whether you are currently an Acrylic painter wanting to up your game in this medium or are an oil painter wanting to make plein air and travel easier, this workshop is for you.
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In this 3-day workshop, I will show you the flexibility and versatility of Acrylics and how they can enhance your creativity and “playtime” in and out of the studio (solvent-free!). I will discuss and demonstrate the unique features of Acrylics, elaborate on brushwork and paint layering, and show you just how darn easy they are to work with (and travel with!). We’ll also discuss the best paint brands, brushes, and surfaces for Acrylics and how to use them like oils.
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Some unique features of Acrylics:
-Durability. Once dry, they become water-resistant and long-lasting, ensuring that painted works can withstand handling and transport without smudging or fading.
-Quick Drying Time. Acrylics dry rapidly, allowing artists to work quickly and layer colors without long waiting times. This is especially useful when painting in changing light conditions or outdoors.
-Compact and Lightweight. Acrylic paints often come in lightweight tubes or jars, making them easy to pack and carry. This is ideal for travelers with limited space.
Anne Blair Brown
Color of Light
May 6–9, 2026
Cost: $875
A deposit of $300 will secure your spot.
Skill Level: Plein air painting experience required.

In this workshop, you will learn to see color in a new light!
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Join me to explore how various elements in nature change the color you see (or expect to see) such as time of day, weather conditions, and general surroundings. These elements can drastically affect the local color of every aspect of your scene. I will show you how to handle these variables and harness the light and atmosphere to create convincing (and expressive!) paintings. You will also learn how to set yourself up for success from the beginning to achieve color harmony and to mix colors that reflect your individual style.
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Other topics we will cover include seeing values, loosening up your brushwork, finding inspiration, and expanding your artistic interpretation. I will also share important painting fundamentals and habits that can help give you more confidence in the field as well as in the studio.
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A typical workshop day will include lively discussions, dynamic painting demos, and personalized instruction tailored to your current level of ability.
Advanced beginners to intermediate/advanced painters welcome.
I will demonstrate in oil, but acrylic painters welcome, too!