Chalabre, France

September 26-October 2, 2021
Cost: $3600 - $4500

Slow Down, Switch off your phone, lay down your schedule, let go of your daily routine. Picture yourself in absolute life changing heaven exploring a medieval village in rural france. come escape, relax and paint with us!

We imagined the most delicious 7 days EVER and we're inviting you to come with us. In an ancient land of beautiful villages, deep history, and sweeping vistas join artists Mati McDonough and Faith Evans-Sills on the magical journey of a lifetime. Join us in Chalabre, a medieval village in the foothills of the Mediterranean Pyrenees in the very south of France - a region of stunning beauty and fascinating history. We’ll take over our own private Chateau, world renowned for hosting vegan wellness retreats since 2013, especially for their sensational food and warm welcome. This is a 7 day/6 night escape full of quiet relaxation surrounded by history, exploring as a group in castles and winding medieval streets, reconnecting to yourself, eating healthy food that is equally delicious and of course delighting in workshops bursting with creativity and inspiration gathered on location as we journey in this historic and ancient land.

If you’ve been longing for a week to re-connect with yourself and your inspiration, we’ve got you covered. Consider this your gentle entry point, right along with us. Its all here for you: all the color, creative inspiration, exquisite meals, option for massage onsite, morning movement in our private roof top yoga shala, painting in our garden studio space with huge glass doors that open onto our private garden labyryth, exploring ancient castles, churches & towns, swimming in the local river, visiting ancient cave paintings.

This will be a time to nurture the whole self, to slow down and soak in the environment with all of your senses. Mati & Faith will lead you through workshops on capturing inspiration with watercolor paint, providing you with the opportunity to meet the projects wherever you are in your art practice.

Inspiration Gathering with Watercolor Painting will be our jumping off point as we delight each of our senses together.....with fresh, delicious gourmet vegan food, historic exploration through castles, beautiful towns and winding roads, enjoying the outdoors with local swimming holes, an optional visit to local ancient cave paintings, gentle morning yoga movement, and so much more.

Consider this your invitation to join us on the dream retreat of a lifetime in Chalabre, France, September 26-October 2, 2021. 

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(If you paid a deposit only at registration, your balance is due by June 15, 2021.)

"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., Artist & 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., Artist & 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, ‘20 and 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