THE ALCHEMY OF INK — LIVE, in person — November 5–12, 2026 — San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico

A 6-day art retreat exploring zen painting (sumi-e), encaustic monotypes, and brushmaking — crafting your own tools from natural Mexican materials. No prior encaustic experience required.

Instructors: Elizabeth Schowachert (elizabethschowachertart.com), sumi-e and encaustic monotype artist and brushmaker with over a decade of teaching experience across the U.S. and Asia, and Gabriela Sanchez (gabrielasanchezarte.com), a Mexico City–born artist with a background in textile design and a master’s degree in visual communication. Gabriela’s practice centers on the line as a storytelling element — drawn, stitched, or implied — bridging ink painting, textiles, and mixed media in work that moves between paper, fiber, and wax.

Location: Casa de la Noche, a restored historic inn steps from the Jardin in San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage city.

Includes: full instruction in all three techniques, materials for guided practices, cultural visits (Atotonilco, Fabrica La Aurora, local galleries), and a final public group exhibition. Intentionally limited to 12 participants.

COST:
– Full retreat: $3,800 USD — includes 7 nights at Casa de la Noche, breakfasts and specified meals, and round-trip airport shuttle from Leon (BJX) or Queretaro. Single occupancy available for an additional $800.
– Local option (San Miguel-area residents): $2,950 USD — workshop only, November 6–11; lodging, meals, and transportation not included.

Full details and itinerary: https://gabrielasanchezarte.com/alchemy-of-ink/
Registration: https://forms.gle/ncjC8PPZf3uiGjHu8