Monhegan Island Art Retreat / $250 DEPOSIT ONLY
A 5-day creative escape to Maine’s most iconic artist island
Two different dates are available:
- July 10-13, 2026
- July 19-22, 2026
A supportive, joy-filled creative getaway—just for you.
Join artist and educator Kristin F. Simmons on magical Monhegan Island for a deeply personal and encouraging art experience. These workshops are designed to meet you where you are, helping you tap into your creative strengths and explore watercolor, sketching, and visual journaling in a way that feels joyful and inspiring.
Kristin offers kind, clear guidance and celebrates what you do well—helping you build confidence and deepen your creative voice. Each day includes engaging demos, hands-on practice, and plenty of time to soak in the island’s light, color, and peaceful rhythms.
Monhegan’s wild beauty, combined with Kristin’s warm and encouraging teaching style, creates the perfect setting to reconnect with your art and yourself. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned painter, you’ll leave feeling energized, uplifted, and more in love with the creative process.
The Retreat:
Step into the timeless beauty of Monhegan Island—where wild cliffs, sun-washed cottages, and sea breezes have inspired artists for generations. This intimate retreat offers you the chance to immerse yourself in art, nature, and island life in a way that restores your spirit and ignites your creativity.
FULL PACKAGE PRICES will be released soon and will range from $1,645 ~ $2,190*** per person depending on occupancy and room type.
- A $250 deposit is required to secure your spot.
- Spaces are extremely limited.
- Please do not make a deposit if you do not plan on booking a full package, thank you.
- Leave a note at check out if you prefer a private single room, shared double room, or private queen room.
What’s Included:
- 4 nights at the historic Monhegan House, an island inn known for its charm, helpful staff, great food, and comfortable simplicity. Single, Double, or Queen Rooms Available. The Monhegan House features extremely clean, shared baths with multiple private stalls, well maintained showers, linens, and towels.
- Round-the-clock self-serve coffee, hot tea, lemon water, and iced tea.
- Daily 3-course gourmet breakfast to fuel your creativity with nourishing, delicious fare.
- A warm welcome, gourmet, family-style dinner at the Monhegan House to connect with fellow artists.
- Daily art demonstrations and hands-on lessons with expert guidance and support
- A supportive environment where you will have the opportunity to develop your skills at your own pace.
- An optional afternoon walk to the Monhegan Brewery (with tastings!)
- An exclusive plein-air painting session in a local artist’s private garden.
- A scenic afternoon boat tour around the island aboard the Balmy Days II—Capture the island from a whole new perspective
- Tickets to the Monhegan Museum of Art & History, home to works by Rockwell Kent, the Wyeths, and more.
- Access to one-on-one support from Kristin to help you hone your specific skills at an "open studio" afternoon walk-in session.
- Complimentary Dessert & Evening Tea Party at Nite Nite Fatty’s - The Island’s beloved nighttime cake + pie, from-scratch porch bakery.
- "Good Bye" Pizza Party featuring locally made, from scratch, sourdough pizzas and charcuterie appetizer platters.
- Free time each day to explore the island’s many delights—wander trails, swim in the cove, enjoy fresh local food, visit artist's studios and homes, or simply breathe in the quiet magic of island life.
What’s Not Included:
To help you plan and budget, please note that the following items are not included in the retreat package:
- Taxes, gratuities, and tips for hotel staff, and ferry porters.
- Alcoholic beverages – we suggest bringing your own ~ BYOB is welcome on the island!
- Three lunches and two dinners (ample time is provided to enjoy local island restaurants)
- Personal art supplies – a comprehensive supply list will be provided in advance.
- Round-trip ferry transportation aboard Monhegan Boat Line, Balmy Days II, or Hardy Boat Cruises, and parking at the ferry departure point. Kristin will help you determine which port of departure best suits your travel needs.
Make Art. Find Stillness. Be Inspired.
Limited spots available. This retreat is designed for artists of all levels who seek connection, growth, and the unique beauty of Monhegan Island.
Reserve your place today with a $250 deposit
Once you make a deposit, balance is due in full by December 31, 2025. Cancellations before 12/31/2025 will receive refund of any monies paid minus the deposit fee.
Leave a note at check out if you prefer a private single room, shared double room, or private queen room.
Cancellations after 1/1/2026 will be charged full. We suggest purchasing travel insurance in case of life changes. Transfers of package prices to a new guest are allowed, if available.
Monhegan is a beautiful, historic, and rustic place to stay. There is NO A/C on the island and while there is WiFi, it is extremely limited. There are no paved roads, nor cars except for the trucks that help move luggage, lobster traps, and deliveries around the island. Bring good walking shoes and a spirit of adventure.
***IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO STAY OFF SITE:
Please contact Kristin for pricing for the workshop and amenities, minus the lodging. Some of our guests like to stay in private rentals or guest houses on the island. You are welcome to reach out to kristin.f.simmons@gmail.com for pricing. A $250 deposit is required to secure your spot.
Kristin F. Simmons LLC is fully licensed and insured.
Photos by Amy Welch-Olson of Capshore Photography and Kristin F. Simmons
