Catherine Watters is a botanical artist and instructor with over 25 years of teaching experience throughout the U.S and in France. She co-developed the Botanical Art Certificate Program at Filoli, in Woodside, CA. Catherine will be returning to Atelier Clos Mirabel 14 – 21 June 2025 to deliver a week long workshop in Botanical Drawing and Painting.
About this course:
The Botanical Art Programme
Join Catherine Watters for one week of drawing and painting the incredibly diverse flora of Clos Mirabel, using watercolours to capture the colours and textures of the plants. Catherine will introduce her 10 stages to successfully illustrate a subject. You will carefully observe, measure and draw your subject focusing on form, light and texture. After composing your illustration, we will discuss the properties of watercolours and transparent colour mixing. You will apply several layers from the base tea wash to the dry brush finishing touches, using proper lighting to make your subject come to life.
Discover the fascinating world of Botanical Art, starting with a walk around the magnificent Clos Mirabel property to choose your subject. A variety of plants will be in bloom including Roses, Hydrangeas, Iris, Lupin, Lilies and numerous fruits and vegetables growing in the Jardin Potager.
The course will include a PowerPoint presentation, numerous demonstrations and an exhibition on the last day.
Catherine will also show you how to create a Botanical Journal to document your experience at Clos Mirabel. This is a lovely way to capture a special moment in a magical place.
Students will work with graphite and watercolour. If you prefer, you can use coloured pencils. All levels of experience are welcome.
Botanical Art Retreat – Outline Programme:
Saturday
4.00 – Check-in time from 4pm onwards. Guests arrive, settle in and explore Clos Mirabel
6.00 – Welcome drinks and dinner – Introductory chat about the course by Catherine Watters
Demonstrations and PowerPoint Presentations by Catherine will take place throughout the course
Sunday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Choose subjects to illustrate, artists set up their materials, look over and discuss course booklet.
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Monday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Studio work with individual tuition throughout the day
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Tuesday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Wednesday – day off
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
We suggest wine tasting in local vineyard, explore Pau or beyond. Alternatively, stay at Clos Mirabel and paint on your own. Please note lunch is not provided on this day.
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Thursday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Friday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Studio work with individual instruction throughout the day
5.00 – Prepare for exhibition
6.00 – Aperitifs and evening exhibition in the studio followed by a 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace
Saturday – Buffet Breakfast and departure (Check-out at 11 am)
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.
