Abstract Bliss Retreats
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
january 21 to 26, 2024
Dive into 2024 with us on a beautiful adventure in the heart of mexico!
Are you ready to step into 2024 renewing your soul, brain, and heart with adventure & creativity? Are you ready to dive into your painting practice and methods on a deeper level? Us too. This is for you.
Join Faith Evans-Sills and Mati Rose McDonough for a week of going all in, its a week of pure creativity and filling your inspiration cup. It will be a luxurious retreat of cultural exploration in the heart of colonial Mexico, wandering colorful streets, delicious catered food and workshops bursting with creativity as we journey in this historic land full of beauty.
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 & gouache paint, providing you with the opportunity to meet the projects wherever you are in your art practice.
You will practice showing up for yourself and learning how to use new techniques to ignite the fire within. Faith & Mati will guide you through a full week of different exercises working in a fun, playful, yet meaningful way to not only allow life changing shifts, but also a beautiful time in San Miguel de Allende, one of their favorite cities in the world!
"The work we do will bring us closer and more intimate with the longest relationship we will ever have. The one with ourselves."
Located in Central Mexico with a temperate climate, interesting art scene and historic architecture, San Miguel de Allende is a favorite among expats looking for a low key and charming existence. Known for its "eternal springtime" weather, sunny skies and walls dripping with Bouganvilla, San Miguel is the ideal mid-winter escape. Mati & Faith have each traveled to San Miguel a few times over the years, having fallen head over heels in love with San Miguel's vibrant culture and colors! We can't wait to slow down and share the inspiration with a small group of kindred creative women. Nicknamed "El Corazon de Mexico" or the heart of Mexico, San Miguel is the perfect place to step out of our busy lives and refresh our spirits together.
Inspiration Gathering with Watercolor Painting will be our jumping off point as together we'll delight each of our senses with fresh food, walking tours, amazing shopping, field trips down secret alleys and so much more. For the first time on our retreats Mati and Faith are offering 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.
Consider this your invitation to join us on this trip of a lifetime in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, January 21 to 26, 2024!
Cost:
$3600 (double occupancy) - $4100 (single occupancy), Airfare is not included.
After you check out, you will receive a confirmation, and yummy details to come, via email. Contact us if you have any questions. You can find a copy of the waiver agreement here.
WE WILL BE STAYING AT THE MOST MAGICAL PLACE...a private historic hotel in the heart of the cultural center of San Miguel.
NESTLED IN ITS OWN PRIVATE GARDEN OASIS, CASA DE LA NOCHE IS A STYLISH, CHARMING AND HOME-LIKE RETREAT THAT IS LOCATED WITHIN THE HEART OF SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, IT IS THE PERFECT LOCATION FROM WHICH TO EXPLORE THE TOWN OF SAN MIGUEL ON FOOT, JUST 5 MINUTES WALK TO THE MAIN SQUARE WITH SO MANY FANTASTIC SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS AT OUR FINGER TIPS! THREE GUEST ROOMS ARE SINGLE OCCUPANCY, OTHER GUEST ROOMS ARE DOUBLE OCCUPANCY WITH TWO SINGLE BEDS.
THIS SPACIOUS PRIVATE PROPERTY IS BUILT IN THE COLONIAL STYLE AROUND A CENTRAL GARDEN WITH SPANISH ARCHED COLUMN DETAILS AND SUITES OF AUTHENTIC CHARM & COMFORT IN A WARM HOME-LIKE ATMOSPHERE. THE HOTEL OFFERS MANY DIFFERENT RELAXATION SPACES TO ENJOY. FROM THE ROOF TOP TERRACE TAKE IN BREATH-TAKING VIEWS OF THE TOWN AND SURROUNDING MOUNTAINS. THE LARGE CENTRAL COURTYARD IS EQUIPPED WITH TABLES & CHAIRS, GIVING YOU THE OPTION TO UNWIND IN THE SUN, OR IN THE SHADE OF A PARASOL. IN ADDITION TO THE SPACIOUS LOUNGE AREAS, THERE ARE TWO DOUBLE-OCCUPANCY, AND THREE SINGLE OCCUPANCY, GUEST BEDROOMS EACH WITH SPACIOUS EN-SUITE TILED BATHROOMS. THE ROOF TOP, COURTYARD AND OTHER COMMON AREAS WILL ACT AS OUR CENTRAL MEETING SPACE FOR RELAXING, GATHERING, ART MAKING OR EATING. THE CARVED STUCCO AND MULTIPLE BALCONIES THROUGHOUT, CREATES A BEAUTIFUL EXOTIC ATMOSPHERE WITHIN THE INTERNAL COURTYARD AND CENTRALLY LOCATED COMMON SPACES.
THERE IS A BEAUTIFUL FORMAL DINING ROOM AND LIVING ROOM ON THE GROUND FLOOR IN THE MEXICAN TRADITION WITH LOUNGE AND FIREPLACE.
THE LARGE ROOF TOP TERRACE WITH 360 DEGREE VIEWS OF THE TOWN OF SAN MIGUEL AND SURROUNDING MOUNTAINS WILL BE OUR MAIN PAINTING SPACE FOR THE WEEK, PROVIDING US WITH SO MUCH GLORIOUS INSPIRATION!
Cost: $3600 (double occupancy) - $4100 (single occupancy) airfare not included
$1500 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT REQUIRED TO HOLD YOUR SPOT. TOTAL BALANCE IS DUE SEPTEMBER 1, 2023. 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.
ONCE WE RECEIVE YOUR DEPOSIT WE WILL BE IN TOUCH AND SEND YOU TIMELY UPDATES AND TRAVEL TIPS AS NEEDED
OUR LUXURIOUS 6-DAY ITINERARY:
sunday, january 21 (day 1)- arrival and orientation
Arrive in Mexico. We suggest you plan your landing arrival time no later than 2pm local time. Group transportation from Leon International Airport to our Villa will be provided. You'll have a chance to refresh yourself and settle into your beautiful home away from home , take a dip in the pool, relax on the roof top terrace, or explore the neighborhood. The Retreat will begin with an Opening Circle at 6pm, followed by a three course catered welcome dinner at the villa.
monday, january 22 (day 2)- painting workshop & walking tour of san miguel
Delicious catered breakfast at the Villa, along with an inspirational workshop on Watercolor Painting. Then it's off for some adventuring. Guided tours of San Miguel will be taking place, along with fun guided shopping. We'll have lunch at a magical restaurant in town. Dinner will be enjoyed on your own at a fantastic selection of restaurants that we recommend in town.
tuesday, january 23 (day 3) - painting workshop, art galleries and shopping the artisan markets
Breakfast at the Villa, followed by the continuation of our Watercolor Workshop.
Lunch at the Villa will be served family style on the poolside terrace. There will also be free time at the Villa to enjoy the grounds and pool and an afternoon trip to local art galleries, group shopping trip to a local art supply store and the famous Mercado de Artesanias.
We'll meet for sunset drinks & amazing views at The Rosewood Hotel. Dinner will be on your own at a fantastic selection of restaurants that we recommend in town.
wedesday, january 24 (day 4)- free day to explore the area as you wish! Individual mentoring sessions with Faith & Mati
Breakfast at the Villa, followed by a free day for you to enjoy as you like. Sink deeply into relaxation with a massage, take a day trip to explore ancient pyramid ruins, wander the streets & re-visit favorite shopping and dining spots that you've already explored. There is so much to explore in San Miguel, you'll have the chance to go deeper and enjoy everything that this beautiful location offers.
In the afternoon Faith and Mati will schedule (optional) individual portfolio review sessions with each participant. 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.
thursday, january 25 (day 5) - painting workshop, free time & closing circle
Breakfast at the Villa, followed by a continuation of our Watercolor Workshop: Harnessing Local Inspiration with Watercolor. Lunch will be on your own in town at one of the many wonderful restaurants. In the afternoon we will have the option for a final walk around town or another shopping trip to the artisan market. In the evening, we will have a beautiful art viewing of our work from the week and celebration of our time together over a 3 course farewell dinner at the Villa.
friday, january 26 (day 6) - farewell & departure
Breakfast at the Villa followed by 10:30am check-out and group transfer to the airport.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS OUR PROSPECTIVE ITINERARY. SMALL CHANGES MAY BE MADE DUE TO WEATHER, DESIRES OF THE GROUP AND UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITIES.
:: 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 on or before SEPTEMBER 1, 2023.
What does the cost cover?
6 night stay at our own private boutique hotel right in the middle of San Miguel!
intimate group limited to women
Guided walking tour of San Miguel
A Welcome Gift Bag full of goodies upon your arrival.
Harnessing Local Inspiration: 4 Watercolor Painting Workshops with Faith & Mati
group art supply shopping, local historical tour & artisan market visit
Visit to the art studios
Delicious fresh, local, organic meals catered by a private chef! 6 Breakfasts, 1 family style lunch, welcome dinner on our first night, farewell dinner on our last night and a gorgeous sunset cocktail & hors d'oeuvre reception
What isn't covered in the cost?
Your airfare is not included in the cost. Any meals eaten off of the Villa grounds or alcoholic beverages (4 lunches, 4 dinners). Expect to pay $15-$20 for lunches and $30-$60 (depending on the restaurant) for dinner. Anything you buy in the markets or on various trips will not be covered as well as any extra tours or excursions that you choose during your free time if you choose to go.
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?
Our private boutique hotel is a luscious and intimate retreat space, we will have the entire property at our disposal. Each of their rooms are uniquely beautiful with en-suite bathrooms. Three of the rooms are single occupancy (2 with one king bed, 1 with a double bed) which will be given on a first come first served basis. Bed sharing is optional for these King bedrooms, if you choose to share a bed with a bestie you will each pay the double room rate, saving $400. The other 2 rooms are double occupancy with two twin beds per room. 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 community & connection within the group.
What kind of food will be served?
The chef at the Villa never uses processed foods and all meals are prepared the old fashion way – from scratch. Breakfast every day will be fresh and delicious, they provide a fixed daily menu that relies on local ingredients. Vegetarian options are available if we inform the chef before hand, other food sensitivities can not be accommodated, however in the town of San Miguel you will be able to find many dining options including gluten free and vegan.
How do I get to san miguel from The airport and back again?
We will secure group transportation to and from Leon International Airport using a transportation service. When booking flights please plan your landing arrival as close to 2pm local time as possible. On our departure day all shuttles will leave for the airport by 10:30am.
What airport do I fly into?
When booking your flight please fly into Leon International Airport, which is an hour and 15 minutes drive from San Miguel. We recommend booking your flights at least 90 days before the beginning of the retreat.
What will the weather be like?
San Miguel is known for having eternal spring-like weather. Weather in January is likely to be in the 70's. It is expected to be a bit cooler in the evenings with highs in the 50's.
How should i expect to dress in San Miguel?
This colonial city has an overall relaxed atmosphere and an interesting mix of people. San Miguel serves as a haven for retirees, a destination for artists (there is an art school & so many galleries) and is still a Mexican city at its core. The area also hosts many outdoor festivals & concerts. When planning what to wear in San Miguel think "casual city chic" with light layers for the changing mountain weather. The city is best explored on foot, through the narrow alleys and cobblestone streets so opt for comfortable shoes, sneakers or sandals. San Miguel is a cultural city, most of our activities will center on the historic city center, exploring charming shops and markets, admiring the colonial architecture, visiting galleries and museums. Plan outfits that will work for exploring but will also be nice enough for a relaxed dinner in town.
Is there anything special I need to bring?
We will send you a packing list & art supply list two months before the start of the retreat. Art supplies will be minimal and will include a journal, pens, two 8 x 10 cold-pressed watercolor paper pads, a travel watercolor set full of your favorite colors, acrylic paint markers and a roll of watercolor brushes. We also recommend that you bring an extra bag (a collapsible duffel) to bring home your goodies you have collected on our shopping trips. San Miguel is known for its artisan markets and handcrafts, it truly has some amazing shopping! The temperatures will vary, so don't forget layers, pack a bathing suit, sweater and a light jacket!
I'm not an artist is this retreat still for me?
Absolutely! This retreat is much more focused on adventure and gathering inspiration, taking notice of your surroundings, finding your authentic voice and approaching your life from a creative and holistic point of view. Painting is just one of the tools we'll encourage you to explore on this retreat. It will be a mix of laid back down time, creativity, exploration, pampering and immersion into a vibrant, lively culture.
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 Mexico.
You've got questions, we've got answers. View our extended Retreat FAQ page here.....
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
"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, 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 will be 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, Costa Rica Retreat ‘16, ‘17, ‘18
"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 ‘16
Watch The Video!
What Our Students Are Saying About Painting The Sacred Within