Get ready for some serious art vibes, folks! This year, 91 painters from across the spectrum—ages 28 to 85—gathered for the 13th Annual Publishers Invitational Paint Adirondacks artist retreat. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Eric Rhoads, this week-long event was set in the breathtaking Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Did you know this park is bigger than the three largest national parks combined? Mind-blowing!
🏡 Check-In & Kickoff
The excitement started as artists checked into their cozy dorm rooms, followed by a lively opening cocktail party and dinner. The scene was set by Rhoads himself, alongside Streamline Publishing’s Sky Fallon and her daughter Brooklyn, and Rhoads’ daughter Grace, who kicked off the evening with prize giveaways and an orientation. The atmosphere was electric.
🌅 Mornings of Magic
Every morning began in the dining hall with a delicious and healthy breakfast. After fueling up, painters got the lowdown on the day’s painting options. Some days saw smaller groups exploring, while other days the whole crew painted together in stunning scenic locations. With maps and schedules in hand, artists roamed freely, soaking up each other’s work and inspiration.
One attendee gushed, “I finally found my tribe.” The camaraderie was palpable, as suite mates bonded and spent their days painting side by side.
🎶 Evenings of Entertainment
Post-painting, evenings were a blast. After dinner and some quick announcements, everyone gathered for live music, thanks to volunteer musicians led by Rick Wilson and Gary Bertrum. Whether you brought your acoustic instruments or just wanted to sing along, the vibe was infectious. Artist Chris Griffin Wood even captured the musical magic on canvas, though she admitted, “Just when I think it’s fine, new musicians join in and I have to add them to the painting!”
Night owls often sketched or painted models, capturing the essence of their fellow artists in the group.
🏞️ A Week of Wonder
The week was filled with jaw-dropping landscapes: waterfalls, gorges, mountain views, and serene rivers and lakes. A highlight was painting at the former home of artist Rockwell Kent, complete with a tour of his preserved studio.
Beyond the brushstrokes, it was the friendships that made this retreat special. John MacDonald, a ten-time attendee, shared, “I come back to see close friends I’ve met over the years. The relationships are meaningful and special to me. It’s the one place I can feel connected to my fellow painters.” With painters of all levels, including newbies who’d never painted outdoors, the sense of community was strong. “There are no stars here,” said Rhoads. “You might paint next to someone like Lon Brauer or John MacDonald, but at this event, we’re all equals.”
🌧️ Rain or Shine
Even a couple of rainy days couldn’t dampen spirits. “We powered through it, found ways to paint anyway, and got even greater paintings as a result,” MacDonald said. When the sun finally broke through, it blessed the group with perfect painting weather.
👋 Until Next Year
The hardest part? Saying goodbye. “Closing day is the toughest because we’ve grown so close,” Rhoads reflected. With hugs and a few tears, new friendships and memories were packed up along with easels and brushes.
Originally, this event was a way for artists to paint together—a rare treat in the plein air circuit. “It started as an invitation-only event, but so many wanted in, I opened it up to everyone,” Rhoads explained. “I never anticipated how close we’d all become. These events are more than a gathering; they’re a family reunion we all look forward to each year.”
If you’re looking to connect, create, and be part of an incredible art family, mark your calendar for next year’s retreat. Or seek out Rhoads’s Fall Color Week retreat this fall, being held in Carmel and Monterey, California. Who knows? You might just find your tribe. 🎨❤️
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