Violaine Abbatucci

Start the day with a nutritious breakfast, then join Elly and your fellow artists in the workshop space for the morning class. You may have the class indoors in the spacious studio, or outdoors on one of the many airy terraces. You'll be introduced to the retreat schedule, and also have the chance to talk about your own artistic goals. You will start your first portrait. Elly will demonstrate how to use charcoal to draw out the anatomy, then acrylic to paint the face. You'll have a short lunch break, then resume your classes in the afternoon. Elly will be available for one-to-one guidance and demonstrations, should you ever need some extra help. In the afternoon, enjoy some downtime, wander around the Kasbah at your own pace, and sip on some pre-dinner drinks. Delight your senses with a mouthwatering three-course meal prepared by your private chef, enhanced by a glass of fragrant wine.

The third day starts with an energizing breakfast, followed by a morning class with Elly. You will spend the entire day painting at the retreat venue. Elly will do a deep dive into anatomy and correctly portraying proportions. She will guide you in creating expressive sketches and capturing dynamic poses, in preparation for the tea ceremony sketching session this afternoon. After a refreshing lunch, prepare your materials and join Elly and the group for the Moroccan tea ceremony. A knowledgeable officiant will serve as your guide during this enchanting ritual. At the heart of Moroccan hospitality lies the ages-old tea ceremony—an integral part of the country's cultural tapestry. Indulge in the aromatic allure of high-quality Moroccan tea, paired with the fragrant essence of fresh mint, an emblem unique to this region. Let your guide and the careful movements needed for this ritual be an inspiration for your studies in poses and proportions. Take leisure time as needed and delight your senses with a chef-made dinner, paired with a glass of delicious wine. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner