Nosara, Costa Rica
April 11 to 17, 2021
Cost: $1800-$3200 USD
We have limited spots available for this retreat. Due to COVID we are accepting applications via email, if you are interested in applying to attend please email faith@faithevanssills.com
BE TRANSFORMED: INSPIRATION, CREATIVITY, CONNECTION, COMMUNITY, RELAXATION, ADVENTURE, come DIVE IN with us!
Join us on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. A paradise where the jungle meets the sea, a world of magnificent sunsets, stunning waters, and lush green jungle filled with iguanas, monkeys, and mangos. Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and Nosara is the jewel of Costa Rica’s Gold Coast!
This retreat is for you if you’re feeling called to open up needed space to deepen or even begin your creative journey. We'll take over a lush secluded retreat center for 7 days & 6 nights of sparking your personal creativity with delicious art making, nurturing relationships with other women, and adventuring in the jungle paradise of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. Our group will lodge in a dreamy mountain top private retreat center, with our own pool, hiking trails, organic farm, gorgeous expansive views of the Pacific ocean and surrounding jungle paradise.
Each morning after a delicious breakfast served over looking the ocean, there will be optional yoga to begin our day. After centering morning journaling workshops to take you deeper into finding your unique creative voice, Mati Rose McDonough and Faith Evans-Sills are teaming up to take you on a layered painting adventure with Unconventional Watercolor, we'll dive into lessons on our gigantic open air painting porch with expansive inspiring views all around. Using our jungle beach location for inspiration we’ll dive into watercolor layered painting goodness with lessons in creating abstract paintings through a variety of marks and materials to express natural space and tropical inspiration. Through a slow build up of process you’ll create multiple paintings in our open air studio. Mati and Faith will lead you through lessons in collage, watercolor, geometrics, gold leafing, layering with drips and washes, creating abstract layers and exploring your personal vocabulary of mark making. You’ll come away with work that you love, and lots of new ways of seeing and working, to take home to jump start your own studio practice. At the end of our time together you'll leave with so many finished paintings and tons of new skills under your belt to invigorate your painting practice back home!
Mati and Faith will also offer optional individual mentoring & portfolio review sessions. This is your chance to get our personalized feedback and direction on your work, pick our brains for insight on career direction and come away with new understanding of your art and process.
This is our 7th Retreat in the beautiful town of Nosara, and we are thrilled to welcome you to our new Retreat location, the Costa Rica Yoga Spa, its like our own private jungle tree house!
Consider this your invitation to join us for painting in paradise!
We have limited Triple and Quad spots available for this retreat. Due to COVID we are accepting applications via email, if you are interested in applying to attend please email faith@faithevanssills.com
View our COVID retreat policies here.
(* If you paid a deposit only at registration, remaining balances are due January 15, 2021. After that date all bookings must be paid in full at the time of registration.)
TAKE A LOOK INSIDE
See what it’s like to be at one of our Pura Vida Retreats. Watch the video!
View rooms, rates, amenities and register now! Please email faith@faithevanssills.com if you are interested in registering.
The Costa Rica Yoga Spa
We will be staying at the most magical place: The Costa Rica Yoga Spa, our own private retreat center surrounded by lush jungle….
Put on your sarong and we'll show you around....
Nestled in its own private garden oasis, the Costa Rica Yoga Spa is an amazing group retreat center; made up of two separate buildings in a compound full of flowering gardens and pathways, this unique place is what vacationing in the tropics is all about! The beautiful jungle lodge is located at the top of a mountain with views of the Ostional Nature Preserve, and surrounding ranch land all the way down to the blue waters of the pacific. This hidden gem is close to the sleepy bohemian beach town of Nosara, it is the perfect location from which to enjoy the amazing natural beauty of the area.
The jungle lodge is surrounded by jungle, with its own private hiking trails. There is abundant wildlife here, you'll often hear the sounds of monkeys in the jungle nearby, iguanas running around the property, and a morning serenade of so many birds to welcome you into each day! This large property is very private, it combines authentic charm and a tropical atmosphere. Enjoy the different relaxation spaces the jungle lodge offers.
The primary gathering area is the rancho, a rustic structure with soaring cathedral ceilings under its thatched roof, built in the traditional local style. The sides of the rancho are open to the outdoors with soul. It has a gigantic open air porch which will become our own private jungle studio space for the length of our stay. The rancho and pool areas have a panoramic view of the jungle beneath your feet that stretches towards the rich blue waters of the pacific. The pool area is equipped with lounge chairs & towels, giving you the option to unwind in the sun or in the shade of one of the thatched roof palapas and plenty of hammocks for down time.
In addition to the spacious lounge areas, there are four quad-occupancy, two triple-occupancy and two double-occupancy guest bedrooms spread throughout the lodge building. All bedrooms are modern, clean, fresh, airy & beautifully decorated with high quality linens and shared or private en-suite bathrooms. Other jungle lodge services include laundry service, on site spa by appointment, free wifi, maid service, and other amenities to make your stay even more enjoyable.
We’ll be treated to daily group shuttle beach trips, so that guests can take in the gorgeous local beach, playa guiones. A constant surf break, rugged coastline, and western view make the beaches of nosara some of the most beautiful in costa rica.
The rancho building and other common areas will act as our central meeting space for relaxing, gathering, art making or eating. These central open air spaces offer us a beautiful exotic atmosphere in which to create art in paradise along with breath-taking views down to the blue waters of the pacific ocean and stunning daily sunsets!
Cost: The retreat week rates range from $1800- $3200 depending on your choice of accommodation. (airfare & ground transportation not included)
$1000 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT REQUIRED TO HOLD YOUR SPOT. TOTAL BALANCE IS DUE JANUARY 15TH, 2021. PAYMENTS PLANS ARE AVAILABLE, PLEASE SEE FAQ'S BELOW FOR DETAILS.
DUE TO HIGH AMOUNT OF INTEREST, WE EXPECT THIS RETREAT TO SELL OUT QUICKLY. WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO PUT YOUR DEPOSIT DOWN EARLY, THAT WAY YOU'LL HAVE THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF TIME TO COMFORTABLY SPACE OUT YOUR PAYMENTS.
TO SEE RATES AND CHOOSE YOUR ROOM CLICK ON THE BUTTON BELOW. ONCE WE RECEIVE YOUR DEPOSIT WE WILL BE IN TOUCH AND SEND YOU TIMELY UPDATES AND TRAVEL TIPS AS NEEDED.
See the Rooms, Rates, amenities and Register Now!
The Itinerary
Each of our 7 days will be filled with creativity! There will be plenty of time to create, relax, and enjoy our surroundings….
sUNDAY, APril 11 {day 1} Arrival, orientation, Opening CIrcle & Welcome Dinner:
Arrival, check in to the Costa Rica Yoga Spa is available any time after 2pm. Settle in, get to know the Retreat Center, wander the many trails in the jungle, enjoy the pool, lay in a hammock and take in the breathtaking views. The Retreat will begin that evening with an Opening Circle and delicious Welcome Dinner served outdoors with amazing views.
monday, April 12 {day 2} Yoga, Beach Time, Painting Workshops:
Breakfast, Daily Yoga. Morning journal work and painting workshop, getting set up in our open air studio. Healthy buffet lunch. Group transportation to & from the most beautiful beach in the area where you will have free time to enjoy as you wish. Afternoon painting workshop with Faith & Mati. Delicious healthy dinner. Painting & free time into the evening.
Tuesday, april 13 {day 3} yoga, beach time & surfing, Painting Workshops, Dinner out:
Breakfast, Daily Yoga. Morning journal work and Painting Workshop. Healthy buffet Lunch. Group transportation to & from the most beautiful beach in the area, along with optional Surf Instruction with our private instructor. Afternoon painting workshop with Mati & Faith. Group dinner out at fabulous local restaurant on the beach La Luna!
wednesday, april 14 {day 4} yoga, *Free Day* to relax & explore the area:
Daily Yoga. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are all offered at the Jungle Lodge on the free day. Then you've got a Free Day to enjoy all that this beautiful part of Costa Rica has to offer...horseback ride on the beach, go on a zip-lining adventure, sink deeply into relaxation with a massage, surf, go deep sea fishing, take a jungle hike, explore the cute boutiques in town, enjoy the local restaurants, there are so many fun activities close by! You can also choose to simply stay at the jungle lodge and paint your heart out, its all up to you!
thursday, april 15 {day 5} Yoga, beach time & surfing, Silent Painting meditation:
Breakfast, Daily Yoga. Morning journal work and Painting Workshop. Healthy buffet lunch. Group transportation to the most beautiful beach in the area, along with optional Surf Instruction with our private instructor. Our Afternoon painting workshop will be a Silent Painting Meditation. Painting & free time. Delicious healthy dinner.
friday, april 16 {day 6} Yoga, beach time, Painting Workshop, Mentoring Sessions & Evening Celebration:
Breakfast, Daily Yoga. Morning painting workshop. Healthy buffet lunch. Group transportation to the most beautiful beach in the area where you will have free time to enjoy as you wish. After lunch optional Private Mentoring Sessions with Faith & Mati. Evening art show of our work from the week and a beautiful celebration of our time together over a yummy dinner!
saturday, april 17 {day 7} Farewell & Departure:
Breakfast & farewell. Check out & shuttles will leave for the airport by 10am.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS OUR PROSPECTIVE ITINERARY. SMALL CHANGES MAY BE MADE DUE TO WEATHER, DESIRES OF THE GROUP AND UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITIES.
What's a typical day like on one of our Costa Rica retreats?
“It’s hard to sum up our Pura Vida painting retreat in Costa Rica. This will be the 7th time we’ve held it in the paradise of Nosara. It’s an intimate chill nourishing experience. My routine there is to wake up to eat delicious fresh fruit & breakfast prepared by our lovely chef, take a dip in the pool, take an outdoor shower. Do some gentle yoga led by Lara Cornell, then teach painting alongside Faith Evans-Sills in the open aired palapa, jump in the pool again, eat an amazing fresh Costa Rican lunch, so many veggies!! Then we paint more... repeat... till sunset where we grab our glass of wine and watch the sunset. Then we head to a delicious dinner! Not to mention a free day for surfing with our in house instructor, or deep sea fishing or zip lining or getting massages or shopping for handmade goods. Most of all are the awesome friendships & art cultivated in this inspiring space!!” ~Mati Rose McDonough
See the Rooms, Rates, amenities and Register Now!
:: FAQ'S ::
Are there payment plans?
Yes! Upon receipt of your $1000 non-refundable deposit you may divide your remaining total into up to 2 separate payments. Total balance is due January 15th, 2021.
What does the cost cover?
6 nights accommodation at the Costa Rica Yoga Spa, a gorgeous private retreat center.
3 organic, local, healthy meals a day— (the exception will be one evening where we’ll go to dinner at the most magical restaurant in town! You will be responsible for paying for this one dinner) expect lots of amazing yummy fresh tropical fruit, veggies and fresh local fish! Vegan and Vegetarian options available. Many of the ingredients are grown on sight at the retreat center’s organic farm, which we’ll be able to tour.
daily painting lessons taught by Faith & Mati…using our jungle beach location for inspiration we’ll dive into watercolor layered painting goodness with lessons in creating abstract paintings through a variety of marks and materials to express natural space and tropical inspiration. Through a slow build up of process you’ll create multiple paintings in our open air studio. Mati and Faith will lead you through lessons in collage, watercolor, wash painting and creating your personal vocabulary of mark making. You’ll come away with work that you love, and lots of new ways of seeing and working, to take home to jump start your own studio practice.
Mati and Faith are offering optional individual mentoring & portfolio review sessions. This is your chance to get our personalized feedback and direction on your work, pick our brains for insight on career direction and come away with new understanding of your art and process. You can sign up for this on arrival.
a gift bag when you arrive, full of goodies & gifts for you to use in your art making!
around the clock access to our own open air art studio, where you can let your inspiration run wild and tap into your personal creativity, working into the night if you desire. Students will be asked to bring along their own watercolor paper pads, aquaboard, watercolor paints & brush sets, gouache paints, and a few other supplies. We'll send out a recommended supply list letting you know all that you will need to bring!
daily group shuttle transportation to the most beautiful beach in the area (just 10 minutes away) & the laid back town of Nosara a funky, holistic, hip enclave in the jungle, with cute restaurants, juice bar, shops, spas and yoga!
private swimming pool, surrounded by lounges....the perfect place to refresh, morning or afternoon.
daily centering yoga, (optional).
2 afternoons of surfing lessons,(optional) led by our private instructor.
daily housekeeping service & hotel staff to help you make any excursion and transportation reservations.
1 free day for horseback riding, zip-lining, massage, surf lessons, local wildlife tours, fishing, jungle hikes and sinking deeply into relaxation.
lots of free time to explore the local beauty, nature preserve, hiking trails on the grounds of the retreat center, swim in the pool, sink into relaxation and nurture relationships with other creative women.
-Also as a bonus gift for our lovely retreaters: ~You'll receive FREE access to Painting the Sacred Within: A Year of Exploration, Self Discovery & Finding Your Voice Through Painting; the year long Self Guided online painting class with Faith & Mati (a $399 value).
What isn't covered in the cost?
Your Airfare from your hometown to Liberia (LIR)
Ground Transportation Shuttle to/from the airport to the Costa Rica Yoga Spa Private Retreat Center
Travelers Insurance
One group dinner out (transportation will be provided), and any other meals that you choose to eat off of the Jungle Lodge grounds.
Alcohol and specialty drinks.
Any extra tours, spa treatments, excursions that you choose during your free time if you choose to go. (zip line, monkey tour, etc.)
Anything you buy in the markets or on various trips.
Tips & Gratuities
Do I need travelers insurance?
We highly recommend it.
How much money should I bring for spending?
That is totally personal and depends on how much shopping you plan to do. ATM's are available to you and credit cards are taken at some major retailers.
Do I need immunizations?
Please see the CDC recommendations here.
Do I have to share a room?
The Costa Rica Yoga Spa Private Retreat Center is a luscious and intimate retreat space, we will have the entire property at our disposal and there are a few different types of rooms for you to choose from, all rooms will be given on a first come first served basis. Four of their rooms are quad occupancy, with 4 single beds per room, and a large shared bathroom. Two of their rooms are triple occupancy, with three beds per room, and a private bathroom. Two of their rooms are double occupancy with 2 beds per room, and a private bathroom. We will do our best to pair you up with someone we think you'll match well with. On our retreats the sharing of rooms has fostered close bonds of friendship within the group.
What kind of food will be served?
The Private Retreat Center never uses processed foods and all meals are prepared the old fashion way – from scratch. Vegetarian options are available if we inform the cook before hand. They provide a fixed daily menu that relies on fresh and local ingredients.
How do I get to the private retreat center from The airport and back again?
The Costa Rica Yoga Spa Private Retreat Center is located in the town of Nosara, about a 2 hour drive from Liberia International Airport. We can recommend a few shuttle companies for you to book a round trip shuttle from the airport, this is easy and can be done online. Once you book you will be added to our retreat's private Facebook group where women have coordinated planned to meet up upon arrival and share airport shuttles! On our departure day all shuttles will depart for the airport by 10am.
What airport do I fly into?
When booking your flight please fly into Liberia International Airport. We recommend booking your flights at least 90 days before the beginning of the retreat.
What will the weather be like?
Weather in April is likely to be in the high 80's. This is the dry season in Costa Rica, it is hot, humid and usually sunny with a possible passing shower. The Jungle Lodge is located in the hills with a view of the ocean, so there is always an ocean breeze, however plan for hot weather! We take breaks often to jump in the pool or the ocean for refreshment. It is expected to be a bit cooler in the evenings with highs in the 70's and low 80's.
I've never been anywhere this exotic, will I like it?
We ask you to approach this trip with a sense of adventure in your heart. We think you are going to love this retreat! We encourage you to do a little research on the area before you come. Costa Rica has a vibrant friendly culture, this is the tropics with wildlife all around, dirt roads, heat and humidity. We will be outdoors painting in a covered open air studio, there will be shade but it will likely be hot. This retreat offers a chance to step outside of your day to day through experiencing a week immersed in topical lifestyle, feeling pampered with chef made meals, painting 24/7 as much as you want to dive into your art. We foster a welcoming atmosphere where we want all women to feel comfortable, appreciated and safe as they journey with us. We love that deep friendships form between the women on all of our retreats, getting to know creative women from around the world is one of the best parts! The retreat will be a mix of laid back down time, lots of painting, exploration, pampering and immersion into an exciting, lively culture.
Is there anything special I need to bring?
We will send you a supply list two months before the start of the retreat. You will bring your art supplies which will include an easy to travel with list of our favorite watercolor paints and papers. The painting lesson on this retreat will be based on our popular In the Flow Watercolor class, which will give us the perfect jumping off point to capture all the tropical inspiration! We also recommend that you bring an extra bag (a collapsible duffel) to bring home your goodies you have collected on our shopping trips. Don't forget to pack a bathing suit and sarong, that might be all you want to wear!
Do you offer refunds?
There will be no refunds for this Retreat due to the planning and logistics involved. When you register be sure to know all you can about traveling to Costa Rica.
You've got more questions, we've got answers: click here to visit our retreat faq page
See the Rooms, Rates, amenities and Register Now!
Take a Deeper Look
We’ve been going to this part of Costa Rica for 6 years now and it has such a place in our hearts, come take a look at some of our favorite things…
Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Nosara
We invite you at take a peek and immerse yourself in the tropical inspiration & beauty that we've gathered on our Costa Rica Retreats.......
Testimonials
We love our retreat participants and so many have joined us more than once! We'll let them tell you about our retreats in their own words:
"I had my first taste of intuitive painting in Costa Rica, it emerged in a magical setting on retreat with inspiring women Faith and Mati as guiding lights in a period of darkness. They helped to open a channel within me that resulted in prolific painting, dropping the fear and pursuing my life's passion. "
-Jenan M., artist & barre Instructor, Costa Rica Retreat '18
"I have had the privilege of participating in two Painting the Sacred Within retreats with Faith Evans-Sills and Mati Rose McDonough. Each retreat has been unique unto itself with the common theme being “you are most welcome here”. Faith and Mati understand that students are at all different levels and that we each have strengths and weaknesses. They are nurturing and confidence building and meet each student where they are rather than trying to force us all into one mold. The lesson materials for each class are very detailed and complete. Everything is spelled out and there is no need to try and guess how to achieve a certain technique. They are both generous and thoughtful with their insight and teaching. What’s most special about the experience is that their love for their craft and sharing it is most evident. Retreats are inclusive and while there are a number different items on the weeklong schedule, as students, we are encouraged to explore the location as a group or alone. There is no short supply of engaging activities and of course coming back to paint is welcomed. Every aspect of the experience is thoughtfully curated and each location has inspiring, wonderful qualities to offer. I would highly recommend a retreat with Faith and Mati, to get a taste of adventure, learn painting techniques, create beautiful art and celebrate friendship and womanhood."
- Myriam L., event planner, Omega Institute Retreat '18, Mexico Retreat '19
“If you are tempted to go on this Retreat DO IT!! So amazing, and so well run!
-Amy F., Morocco Retreat ‘18
“Faith and Mati’s retreats are truly magical! The experience of travel and learning new techniques, all while being a part of a super supportive group of women was beyond priceless!”
– Cassie B., Artist, Mexico Retreat '19
“What a week it's been. I feel so blessed to have been with such an amazing group of women artists during our Painting the Sacred Within retreat in San Miguel. We laughed, we cried, we shared our stories, we shared meals family style, we channeled Frida Kahlo, we explored the city, we painted alongside each other - some of us beginners, some of us masters, but all of us so supportive and so willing to lift each other up and hold each other sacred. Thank you Mati and Faith for your amazing guidance and truly inspirational talents. And - to my retreat sisters - I feel truly honored to have shared this time with you all and so grateful to have you as friends! My heart is full!"
– Julia L., Stay at home Mama, Mexico Retreat '19
"I'm full of joy and creativity from our retreat, it was just such a special time. Faith and Mati, thank you again so much for creating such an amazing artful & soulful retreat- I had the time of my life and have a new well of endless inspiration to draw from! What a gift this, and you, have been to me!"
– Michelle L., Costa Rica Retreat '18
“This retreat touched my heart so deeply and reminded me of the constant creativity, love, beauty and kinship that is available to me. Ya fattah (The way opener) for many more years of special friendships and creative energy in this beautiful place, filling up women to their core.”
- Brittany M., Stay at home Mama, Costa Rica Retreat ‘17
"When people ask what my favorite memories are I can say it’s been traveling to beautiful destinations with Mati and Faith! I’ve gone to Costa Rica and Morocco with them and both trips have changed my life for the better! Not only are you discovering new places, but also exploring parts of yourself through art making. Being able to travel and create colorful artwork while making new friendships have been the most transformative and joyful moments in my life. If you want to be nurtured and truly feel awakened, I suggest art retreats because it’s 100% happiness!"
– Lily U., Artist & Teacher, Costa Rica Retreats '16 & '17, Morocco Retreat '17
"My first retreat with Faith and Mati was in Charleston, SC. It was so wonderful. We did loads of painting, had great food, and I left feeling so peaceful, rejuvenated and inspired. I recommitted to making art a regular part of my life. Attending The Morocco Retreat was like something straight out of an exotic travel magazine. Everything was above and beyond my expectations. There were so many pieces of the trip, clearly well thought out making traveling to a foreign country a breeze. This included guides which knew the best places to shop, and helped us feel safe, lovely accommodations, and lots of adventures each day to fully experience Morocco from the rug shopping, the souks, the hammam, trips to gardens, the mountains and more. I will definitely be signing up for another one of Faith and Mati’s retreats!"
– Lisa D., Acupuncturist, Charleston Retreat '16, Morocco Retreat '17
When I found out about Faith and Mati's first retreat to Costa Rica, I thought 'How AMAZING, but there's no way I can go' ... the time... the kids, etc. But thankfully I had an epiphany that it was time for me to do something for myself, and I made the leap! I hadn't painted in YEARS, too many to even say. In college I had studied visual and performing arts, and eventually became a graphic designer. But between life, my family, and career, the artist in me became more and more distant. I was creative as designer, but very differently than I had once been. I was really nervous about what I would or would not be able to put on a canvas and had so many of my own judgements. But between Faith and Mati's teachings and the divinity and bliss of Nosara, Costa Rica, I immediately fell into the flow of my creativity and awakened a part of me that I had so very much missed. Faith and Mati teach with such fluidity and guidance that speaks to all levels of artists. They really know how to take the fear out to let your inner creativity flow. For that I am forever grateful."
– Jen Van Arsdale Leathers, Graphic Designer & Artist, Costa Rica Retreat '15, Charleston Retreat '16
"My recent trip to Morocco with Faith and Mati was the soulful healing I needed. I have been painting for years, and was in a bit of a creative lull. I was looking forward to spending time with like-minded women and seeing a new area of the world...and hopefully leaving with some inspiration. By painting with other women and delving into the creative process in such a spiritual place, I ended up uncovering some deeper truths and returning home with a sense of creative wholeness. My trip to Marrakesh was a gift in so many ways..... and Mati and Faith's guidance made it possible. Not only did I have a wonderful experience, but I left having made some lifelong friendships."
– Daniela B., Artist & Teacher, Morocco Retreat '17
"This week in Costa Rica I focused on the practice of being wild hearted and learning how to let go. I'm so thankful for all of the women I got to spend time with and learn from, at the Pura Vida Retreat with Mati Rose and Faith Evans-Sills. I feel so blessed to call all of these ladies my friends. I didn't understand what holding space was before this experience but after feeling the unconditional love and acceptance and lack of judgement this week I've come away with an appreciation for creating an environment that nurtures others while they are on their journey. I'm excited to return home full of inspiration and ready to allow new learning to unfold with an open heart."
- Christine B., Artist & Photographer, Costa Rica Retreats '16 & '17
"We had a fantastic time in Marrakech with the group and with each other, I went on the Retreat with a long distance friend that I rarely see. We loved it there as we didn’t just paint but did so much more, I enjoyed the company with Faith and Mati and all the other ladies in the group it was special, the Riad we stayed in was cozy and comfortable and the food there was delicious at the Riad and at some of the restaurants, loved the meditations, loved shopping in the souks there, did an amazing camel ride, and the spa day was an incredible treat and surprise. On the whole it was a self discovery Retreat for me. Mary Leigh and I are always in touch and hope to go to Costa Rica with you, as well as we loved the experience we had in Marrakech. Thank you for the extremely special Retreat and experience as it brought so much more than expected."
- Leena S., Artist, Morocco Retreat ‘17
"This was my third time on the Sacred Within Painting in Paraiso retreat in Costa Rica. I look forward to this trip all year long. Mati and Faith create a space that is so nurturing for my creativity to flow while I learn new techniques to apply to my art. I have met some of the coolest, strongest, bravest, beautiful souls on these retreats. I'm thankful that these women have become lifelong friends. So much Love and gratitude to Mati and Faith for sharing their wisdom and creating this retreat.”
– Barbara J., Artist, Teacher & Administrator, Costa Rica Retreats ‘16, ‘17 & ‘18, Morocco Retreat ‘19
"My week in Morocco with Faith and Mati was truly magical. I didn't know anyone on the retreat before I left, but I felt called to go. I left Morocco with deep soul connections with my new friends and some fabulous treasures from the souk markets. Faith and Mati perfectly planned an adventurous and exciting itinerary, and I felt safe and welcome the entire time. I cannot wait to attend another retreat with them soon!”
- Carolyn M., Artist & Photographer, Morocco Retreat ‘16
What are you waiting for? Dive in and join us on this magical journey in paradise!
take a look at our fine print here. have more questions?
feel free to shoot us an e-mail.
see you in costa Rica!
A bit more about our teachers...
Mati Rose McDonough is an artist and daring adventurer whose name is pronounced Matey, like Ahoy! She is an Oakland, California based artist, illustrator, painting teacher and author of “Daring Adventures in Paint”. After wanting to be an artist for many years, but feeling like it was “impractical”, at 29 years Mati took the leap and went back to art school at the California College of the Arts. Almost 10 years later, she is still excited and terrified every time she sees a blank canvas. She has had dozens of art shows, taught painting classes internationally and had her art used by clients Patagonia, University Games, Pier 1, as well as greeting cards, and her very own home decor line. She also has illustrated several children’s books including “i carry your heart” written by EE Cummings. Through her workshops, book, and popular online course, she spreads a warm message of creative courage: it’s never too late to show the world your magic.
Faith Evans-Sills is a painter, wife, mother, world traveler and creative guide making her home in sunny Charleston, South Carolina. After 15+ years in New York City Faith craved a closer daily connection to nature, so she took the leap moving her family to the South Carolina coast in 2011. In her work, Faith draws inspiration from nature’s wild and small moments; from love, textiles and most importantly, the relationships that shape her. Classically trained in painting with a BFA from Skidmore College and an MFA from Parsons School of Design, along with over twenty years of personal painting experience, Faith enjoys inspiring others to manifest their most heartfelt ideas through creating art. Her first book, Painting the Sacred Within, a guide to art techniques for expressing your authentic inner voice, was published in 2017 with North Light Press. She is a well-loved teacher both online, across the United States and internationally at her annual art retreats in Morocco, Costa Rica and Mexico. Faith’s paintings have been exhibited widely and included in numerous books and publications including Painted Blossoms, Paint Lab, Color Lab, Seventeen, Calm, Happinez and Mabel Magazine. Her art has also been featured on designs for Anne Taylor Company Lou & Grey. Follow along on Instagram where she posts daily beauty and inspiration.