September 21 - 26, 2025

Embark on a Creative Journey in 2025

Join me for Structure to Abstract: A PanPastel Creative Journey—an unforgettable in-person retreat held at the beautiful Artists Rising Creativity Retreats estate in Connecticut. From September 21–26, 2025, we’ll gather to create, connect, and grow together in a breathtaking setting rich with history and natural beauty

September 21 - 26, 2025

Price:

Deposit is $450, balance due 60 days before arrival
Day Student Tuition: $1144 + Materials
Inn-Stay Package*: $2,380 - $3,220 + Materials

Due to the small, intimate setting of this retreat, spaces are limited.

*Your Inn-Stay Retreat Package includes:
Workshop Tuition, lodging, dinner 2 nights (welcome and farewell), breakfast and lunch each day, daily snack breaks, unlimited coffee, tea & seltzer. 

For your independent dinners, there are many restaurants with a wide variety of cuisines and price points, within comfortable walking distance of the Inn, plus Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s.

You can choose a room to yourself (single occupancy) or double your fun, bring a friend and split a room (double occupancy). 

{Artist Rising Retreats will handle all payments securely and assist with all booking details. }

What You Will Learn

This workshop blends live demonstration with guided, step-by-step instruction. You’ll follow along as I walk you through each stage of the process—from composition and value planning to final details—so you can gain confidence with PanPastel and begin building a strong creative foundation.

By the end of the retreat, you’ll have a better understanding of how to approach your paintings with more clarity, skill, and personal intention.

  • PanPastel Essentials
    Learn how the medium works, how to mix colors intentionally, and how to use the tools for smooth, expressive application.

  • Supplies That Inspire
    Discover why the right materials make a difference—and how to choose tools that support your creative flow.

  • Simplified Composition
    Use the principles of design to make intuitive, confident decisions as you paint.

  • Abstract & Whimsical Mark-Making
    Blend structure with expressive play. You’ll explore how to incorporate pastel pencils for intricate details, personal marks, and dynamic layers.

  • The Power of Value
    Learn how contrast and value mapping can bring energy and depth to your work.

  • Layering & Color Harmony
    Create cohesion and vibrancy through intentional layering and harmonized palettes.

Materials & Supplies

Here is the list of materials and supplies that you will need to purchase for the retreat.

Your Time With Dawn

Discover the Possibilities of PanPastel with Dawn Vander Stoep

Let me take you on an exciting journey to explore the unlimited possibilities of creating with PanPastel! In this immersive workshop, Structure to Abstract: A PanPastel Creative Journey, I’ll share the creative process I’ve developed over seven years of working with this remarkable medium. Together, we’ll explore essential steps to unlock your creativity through simplified composition, value, color, and layering. My goal is to demystify soft pastels, helping you feel confident, inspired, and ready to explore this magical medium long after the retreat ends.

A Creative Process Designed for Play & Exploration

I will be demonstrating the techniques above and will guide you through the full process, starting with a drawing (line art provided) and transferring it onto pastel paper. From there, I’ll guide you through using that initial structure and then breaking it down into abstract forms. This process will encourage play and experimentation, allowing you to develop whimsical mark-making and a personal connection to your artwork. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to use PanPastel, a variety of techniques to continue exploring at home, and the confidence to create your own inspired pieces.

Who This Retreat Is For

This experience is ideal for:

• Artists looking to build a strong foundation with PanPastel

• Creatives who appreciate step-by-step guidance in a warm, encouraging space

• Beginners are absolutely welcome—if you’re eager to learn, you’re in the right place

• Those craving time to focus, experiment, and grow—without everyday distractions

• Anyone seeking a balance of structure and freedom in their creative process

Included in your retreat:

  • 5 days and 5 nights (most workshops start on Sunday eve at 6 pm with a meet and greet and welcome dinner but be sure to check the dates of each instructor). Most meals included, with a freshly made healthy breakfast, lunch, and a chef-prepared dinner using local and seasonal ingredients as much as possible.

  • Dietary restrictions can be considered as long as we know upon registration. Any off-site meals are excluded.

  • 4-1/2 Days of Creativity (or occasionally 3-1/2 — check each retreat page) in our Artist studio with a special guest artist teacher (I have searched for and invited very talented artists/teachers who are skilled at their craft) to guide you through your new experience!!

  • Local Transportation from the airport to Glastonbury if needed– at a time to be specified on arrival day. 

  • We will have an open kitchen with snacks, juice, water, tea, and coffee during workshop hours.

  • Use of all facilities, including bicycles, kayaks, and pickleball paddles.

  • Free wireless internet connection throughout.

  • Guest room amenities include Bamboo Towels, Beautiful 100% soft linen bedding, soap, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, hair dryers, coffeemaker, mini fridge, TV, internet, lap desks, yoga mats.

What is not included:

  • Travel costs / Airfare

  • Fares to and from Glastonbury, Ct

  • Taxis or car hire

  • Personal Insurance

  • Any meals or dinners you purchase from local restaurants

  • Any other off-site excursions that you may take.

  • Materials & Supplies

Join Me September 21 - 26, 2025

Day Student Tuition: $1144 + Materials
Inn-Stay Package*: $2,380 - $3,220 + Materials

Click below to view availability and reserve your spot through Artist Rising.

{Artist Rising Retreats will handle all payments securely and assist with all booking details. }