Painting Horses workshops
Instruction includes anatomy lessons, exercises addressing formal principles, demos and one-on-one attention.
Mornings are spent outdoors studying from life. Afternoons are spent indoors with formal exercises in composition and color.
We work hard but make time for a quick (optional) horseback ride.
A wrangler bringing the horses in for the Zapata Ranch guests.
The workshops are fully hosted with cooks and attentive staff. Be prepared to gain a few pounds because the gourmet meals are AMAZING (and completely worth the weight!). Expect bison pot roast, local produce salads, baked breads, and a glass of wine.
The lodge is the original ranch homestead built in the 1800s. Once the ranch's main house, this log structure has been beautifully remodeled to incorporate a roomy and attractive indoor dining area. All rooms are in top order and beautifully decorated along with large, comfortable beds and private bathrooms.
We set aside a morning at Zapata Ranch to find the bison (left). One of many beautiful scenes of the surroundings.
Thank you Ranchlands, Sue Johnson, & Julie Nestor for the use of your photos.
May 5-10, 2024
September 15-20, 2024 FULL
overview
The Painting Horses Workshops are more than a class—they are an experience. Students get a taste of ranch life and enjoy time with the people and animals that make Zapata special. All participants stay at the same location, sharing meals and evening activities and getting to know each other on a personal level.
For an additional fee, students are invited to bring a spouse or friend (non-student). While you’re involved in the workshop, your spouse or friend can enjoy ranch activities.
instruction
These workshops focus on drawing and painting horses with a strong emphasis on formal foundations. Each day is divided into morning and afternoon sessions. Mornings focus on seeing and studying from life. Activities include sketching, painting, and sculpting live horses to help students reach a deeper understanding of equine anatomy and to provide tools to better observe. In the afternoon, students work on conceptual and formal exercises, including composition and color to emphasize the importance of good drawing and design, as well as the power of intention. Evenings include a presentation about an art topic. There are also demonstrations and individual critiques.
Classes are kept small to allow for ample one-on-one time with the instructor. Space is limited 16 people.
prerequisite
This is an intense artistic experience for students who are eager to learn and work hard, and all levels are welcome. However, it is recommended that students have a basic drawing foundation, equivalent to at least 150 hours of instruction (self-taught or formal).
cost: $3,420, includes all meals, lodging, and instruction
testimonials
Jill's demonstration was packed! She did a wonderful job of conveying/demonstrating her process. I went home inspired. Not only is Jill an awesome painter, but she is a confident and articulate teacher. — Sue Johnson
It’s a wonderful workshop learning experience. I ALWAYS learn so much from Jill. I appreciate the time and analysis put into its planning. I especially loved the full immersion of art study, exercises and horses. I found it to be full of substance, the best kind of art workout. I also find Jill’s lectures to be so valuable, and I greatly benefit from her shared knowledge of years of study and execution of art. —Connie Sayas
I wrote more notes and learned more from Jill in 5 days than I did in 4 years of university. I wish I was kidding. The generosity Jill demonstrates in sharing her gifts, knowledge and time are invaluable. She has a knack for tailoring her critiques to her students as individuals so that we are better equipped and more aware of how each mark is relevant and has purpose. She fosters an environment of learning for all levels, from beginner to professional. My joke at the end was ... You have imparted invaluable advice, not only with how one should approach our art making, but how one should engage in our daily lives... — Crystal Beshara
Dates:
May 5 - 10 2024
September 15-20 2024 FULL
Zapata Ranch is located near Colorado's Great Sand Dunes. The lodge is the original ranch homestead built in the 1800s. Once the ranch's main house, this log structure has been beautifully remodeled to incorporate a roomy and attractive indoor dining area. All rooms are in top order and beautifully decorated along with large, comfortable beds and private bathrooms. Activities will include photo opportunities (of horses running and on a bison tour).
Location:
Zapata Ranch
5305 Highway 150
Mosca, CO 81146
Register Here
stay@ranchlands.com or 719-641-2089
Space is limited to 16
For more detailed information about Zapata Ranch visit ranchlands.com