top of page
Writer's pictureErna van Dyk

Unforgettable Moments at the Brushes & Beyond Art Retreat in Twentynine Palms CA!


If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to the desert to create art, make new friends, and get inspired by nature, you’re not alone! Recently, I had the pleasure of spending an incredible few days with 14 amazing women at the Brushes & Beyond Art Retreat in Twentynine Palms, CA. We had the perfect mix of creativity, laughter, and adventure—and I can't wait to share a few highlights!


Waking Up with Nature: Picture this: crisp, early mornings in Joshua Tree, where the golden sunrise lights up the rugged landscape. We’d lace up our boots and hit the trails, soaking in the quiet beauty around us. Hiking through Joshua Tree felt like stepping into a painting—a perfect way to get inspired for a day of creating.



Art All Day (and All Night!): After our hikes (optional) and breakfast provided by Campbell House, it was time to dive into art! We transformed our cozy bed and breakfast into a creative oasis, complete with watercolor stations, mixed media corners, and endless supplies. From morning till late at night, we painted, experimented, and encouraged each other to try new techniques. There were no “mistakes” here—just pure, fearless exploration. Whether you’re into watercolor, mixed media, or something totally new, you’d have a blast diving in with us!


Late Night Laughs and Creative Magic: Some of my favorite moments? Definitely the late nights, when we’d be gathered around, sharing stories and just doing art together. No rush to go anywhere. Imagine being surrounded by kindred spirits, all here to create, connect, and cheer each other on. It was pure magic! On day one we started a collaborative painting and on the last morning I divided it up so everyone went home with a square. Such a fun activity with no rules. Paint what you want.


Join Us Next Time! If this sounds like your kind of retreat, keep an eye out for the next one! Brushes & Beyond isn’t just about making art—it’s about building a community and creating memories that last a lifetime. We’d love to have you with us next time, so stay tuned for updates! Go add your name to the waitlist here: Brushes & Beyond


What to expect from my retreat: Create art for all levels of experience that is personal, soulful, and meaningful. All supplies included. Even with a template you can still create unique art that doesn’t look like mine.  Be guided from start to finish but with a lot of freedom to explore.  All workshops & demonstrations done by me. 

 

Art Sessions: Two classes per day, morning and afternoon. Optional to join in all of them.

This will be like my classes, structured and step by step with templates and art supplies provided. I got you every step of the way. I will give you a watercolor and mixed media workbook with templates and ideas and you just ask for my help to create what you want.

 

Open studio: After dinner every day. 

There will be no formal lesson however if you always wanted to sew a bag or journal cover I can show you how. I will bring my sewing machine. Or we can just paint and play.


Free time: Anytime you feel overwhelmed or peopled out you can definitely retreat to your cottage/room. Anytime you feel like it you can go on an evening hike through Joshua Tree or go into the town.


It was a wonderful experience and I would love to invite you to join me on another one soon.

Go on the waitlist here: Brushes & Beyond


I would like to thank my sponsors and swag bag goodies from various businesses that helped making my retreat successful.


DecoArt for all our paint and brushes - https://shop.decoart.com/


In our Swag Bags: please support these local women businesses.

Laguna Lily Calm Skin Serum - https://snpnaturals.com/

Capistrano Sudsery Soap - https://capistranosudsery.com/

In Balanced Soul Tea - https://inbalancesoul.com/


On our Snack Table



It was unforgettable and I hope next time you will follow me to the desert!








17 views

Recent Posts

See All

Comentarios


bottom of page