Join Botanical Artist Denise Walser-Kolar as she returns to Atelier Clos Mirabel in April 2026
About this course:
Learn my approach to painting on vellum during this five-day workshop at the beautiful Clos Mirabel in the south of France. We will begin by doing some exercises on small bits of vellum to learn technique and to get a feel for painting on this surface. Then, we will explore the grounds of Clos Mirabel to choose painting subjects – roses, hellebores, poppies, columbines, fruit trees, iris, and so much more will be blooming this time of the year. If we are lucky, there may even be a few vegetables ready in the kitchen garden.
This class is designed for students new to vellum (learn how to successfully paint on vellum) as well as for more experienced vellum painters (learn new tricks and techniques and bring your work to the next level). The workshop combines demonstrations, discussion of materials and techniques, hands-on time for developing skills, and lots of individual attention and feedback.
You may also choose to do a Hoefnagel-Inspired painting of the treasures you find in the gardens. Experienced vellum painters can use this as a studio class to work on anything they like.
Botanical Painting – Workshop Schedule
Saturday
4.00 – Check-in time from 4pm onwards. Guests arrive, settle in and explore Clos Mirabel
6.00 – Welcome drinks and dinner
Sunday
8.00 – 9.30 Breakfast
10.00 – 1.00 Studio
1.00 – 2.00 Relaxed Lunch
2.30 – 4.30 Studio
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Monday
8.30 – 9.30 Breakfast
10.00 – 1.00 Studio
1.00 – 2.00 Relaxed Lunch
2.30 – 4.30 Studio
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Tuesday
8.30 – 9.30 Breakfast
10.00 – 1.00 Studio
1.00 – 2.00 Relaxed Lunch
2.30 – 4.30 Studio
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Wednesday
8.30 – 9.30 Breakfast
Free day to explore the locality – we suggest wine tasting in local vineyard, explore Pau or beyond. Lunch is not included on the free day.
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Thursday
8.30 – 9.30 Breakfast
10.00 – 1.00 Studio
1.00 – 2.00 Relaxed Lunch
2.30 – 4.30 Studio
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Friday
8.30 – 9.30 Breakfast
10.00 – 1.00 Studio
1.00 – 2.00 Relaxed Lunch
2.30 – 4.30 Studio
6:00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Saturday – depart for airport after breakfast (Check-out 11am)
Non-painting guests: we are more than happy to welcome non-painting guests, accompanying partners, family or friends. There are plenty of activities to experience around Clos Mirabel, that will make your holiday unforgettable Click here for more information.
The Art Studio, offers a spacious open plan layout of 75 m2. It is available at all times during your stay. Click here for more information.
