The Cove Art Retreat
Westport, ON

Summer 2026 • Sunday, August 16 to Saturday, August 22

The Cove Inn has a long reputation for supporting the arts, but this year, our gathering feels more vital than ever. In a world that feels increasingly overwhelmed by noise and upheaval, art has become the essential medicine we need to survive, not just thrive. We are all carrying the weight of the collective atmosphere, and the truth is, we were never meant to carry it alone. This summer at The Cove, we will reclaim our right to breathe, to play, and to keep our hearts open when the world tries to close them.

Creating is an act of resilience

This art retreat experience goes beyond technical instruction. While I provide personalized, one-on-one guidance in your chosen medium—from painting, to mixed media and drawing—the real work happens in the connection.

• Open Studio Sanctuary, Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm.

• Inspiring artist features, art history, critiques and thoughtful exercises to explore meaning and authenticity in your artwork.

• Surrounded by amazing music, delicious food, and the grounding scenery of the water.

This is a space for true togetherness. We will create and witness one another without the need to perform, and remember our wild, tender humanity side-by-side. Whether you are starting a new vision or pushing through an existing one, you will find unfettered guidance and a community of like-minded spirits.

Come as you are. Bring your heart, your hope, and your hands. We need the medicine that art so generously offers.
Let’s find the beauty we need to keep going, together.

The Historic Cove Inn

The Cove Inn is known as one of the grand old houses in Westport. Family owned, this gorgeous 150-year-old vintage hotel is a special place for local residents & visitors alike to enjoy great food, comfortable accommodations, the best in live entertainment … and we are taking it over for the most amazing week of creating!

Accomodations

There are 10 rooms with one queen bed, and a shared room with two doubles. All rooms have their own ensuite bathroom, a bar fridge and air-conditioning. Please contact The Cove Inn to book your room: https://coveinn.com/hotel-rooms/

Studio View

The Meeting Room aka ‘The Cove Studio’ overlooks Westport Pond. North-facing windows bring in natural light to the air-conditioned room, set up with a table and chair per person, plenty of room, and daily service of Food/Snacks + Drinks for breaks.

Summer 2026 Art Retreat Registration

Sunday, August 16 to Saturday, August 22 (5 studio days with instruction, accommodation and 6 x breakfast/lunch/dinner). Total Retreat Cost: $2,834.00 CAD

To register

1. Fill out contact form below - This is the first step to securing your spot in the retreat! Instructions on payment will follow ($800 per person, covers instruction and studio rental).

2. Accommodations and meals are booked and payable directly with The Cove Inn ($300 x 6 nights (+ HST) per person). Visit The Cove website to choose your room, and let them know. You will be asked to leave a credit card on file to hold your reservation. Total payment will be charged before check-out.

• MAX 12 artists

• Arrive on the Sunday in the afternoon by 3pm to check-in. Leave on the Saturday after lunch (check out of rooms by 11am).

• You are responsible for your own travel, art materials/easel, studio goals, communication and respectful conduct at all times.

• Gratuity for hospitality room service and meals can be added electronically as a tip to your bill, or you can bring cash just like staying at a resort.

• Parking at Fredenburgh property, 23 Main Street, Wesport ON.

Contact me about accessibility. To receive a refund of your deposit (minus an $80 administrative fee, which is 20% of the deposit), please cancel at least two months before the retreat begins. Cancellations made after this deadline will not be eligible for refunds or credits, no exceptions. If you are unable to attend after the cancellation deadline, I encourage trying to find someone to take your place.