Workshop Program:

Fourteen days of painting instruction based on each student's workshop proposal.
On-site painting (both as a group and individually as you choose to) as well as studio painting at Berges.
Individual instruction and critique at Berges studio.
Evening group critiques, slide-lectures, and discussions based on material from the reader (to be provided by me before we leave for France).
Group exhibition in the Abbey.
Instruction in French cooking or lecture/tasting of regional wines can be arranged for the group through Lois and Terry if desired. (fee charged)
Side-trips can be arranged as the group desires (and if we have enough rental cars among us.)

Note:

The above items represent only a rough idea of what we will actually do in the workshop. So much depends upon the desires and needs of the group itself, the weather, and who knows what other circumstances. It's an adventure every time. It has never been the same experience twice.

About Art Supplies and Equipment:

There is a basic, serviceable art supply store (in combination with a house-painting supply store!) in Carcassone which has virtuallly anything you might need, eg. oils and acrylics, gesso, brushes, canvases, even arches paper, 22"x30". There is an upscale stationary/artshop off the square in Carcassone as well. If you have special needs, the best store is Sennelier in Paris which will ship direct to the B & B in Caunes if you arrange for it. Consult with me about these things before we go. Given the extreme airport security measures these days, don't even think about bringing solvents or flammables on the plane. I'll have thinner for you to use in the studio as well as large pressboard panels to paint on so as to preserve the stone walls. You might consider bringing a lightweight travel-easel for en plein air work.

What mediums and surfaces should I work on?

This list should give you an idea of possible mediums to work in. We will be taking a trip to the Carcassone art store once we are settled to pick up supplies. Tere will probably be a few trips there throughout the workshop.

Unstretched and primed canvas - This is easy to transport when rolled up. Gessoing before you leave gives you more time to play in France. There is canvas available at the art store in Carcassone if you don't want to lug canvas there and back. You can also ship things back if you are planning on additional travel or don't want to carry them. Expect to pay around $20 to ship back a roll of 5-10 mid-sized canvases.
Paper - There is Arches watercolor paper available at the art store in carcassone. This paper is durable and easy to transport. It works great for acryllic, oil, or watercolor.
Oils or Acryllic? - The hot summer sun of France will typically dry oil paintings within 2 days. Acryllics work fine as well and you can keep them moist with acryllic medium or a spray bottle. The art store in Carcassone has both oil and acryllic paints. It's not advisable to carry oil paints on the plane. They may get confiscated by the airline.
Sketchbooks - France is a fantastic place to get in the habit of keeping (or continuing) a sketchbook. Watercolor, colored pencils, pens and pencils are great sketchbook companions.
Brushes - Bring your favorite brushes. There is a wonderful selection of brushes at the carcassone art store but they are pricey. Bring along a couple of staples and treat yourself to some new brushes if you like.
Easels - There are a couple of travel easels in the studio. There are several large boards in the studio that you can tack unstretched canvas or paper to. If you have a small travel easel and can easily bring it along, they are nice for plein air work, but don't fret over it too much. Sketchbooks are a great option for plein air.