From French Riviera to California

Sanctuary for the Artist offers a unique environment for all people to explore their “inner artist”, to nurture their creativity through a combination of art, yoga, sound healing and dance. Our workshops focus on the exploration of the self through one's art experience. It includes an artist’s studio and gallery, and a unique Villa overlooking the “citée des Arts” Vence, and the Mediterranean sea, where we host our guests during our retreats.

May 3rd to 9th 2026

Hosted by artist painter Véronique Porter.

Accommodation at the Mas “Le Claoux”

Vence owns its nickname as, “La Citée des Arts” because many artists through the years chose to call it home for the unique light permeating the landscape. This workshop focusses on color and Henry Matisse lived in Vence for a few years where he painted the light, landscape and towards the end of his life designed “La Chapelle du Rosaire”. Taking inspiration in his work and as a guide, we’ll develop a body of work painting and sketching in both the studio and plein air. Tailored towards all levels, our time is punctuated with private visits and tours, culminating with a luncheon at the famous “Colombe d’Or” in Saint Paul de Vence. As a time to reflect and move our body as well as our mind, meditation, yoga in the Iyengar tradition and sound healing are part of the whole. In the haven of peace and tranquility of Le Mas du Claoux, you drop in and find peace, take full use of the pool, and spa. You also enjoy in your own time the bustling medieval art village. It is our aim to let you experience a week where everything is created for your ability to let go and be an artist..

Your host for the week will be Véronique Porter who will offer daily yoga classes and accompany you to manifest a clear vision of your artistic path.

To book this retreat please fill in the Booking Form below and you will then we redirected to PayPal for your deposit payment:

If you have already filled in the booking form but not payed your deposit, you can do so by clicking on the button "Acheter" (Buy):

Your Teacher

Véronique Porter

Véronique Porter is a painter. She shares her time between Vence and Laguna Beach. She exhibited with Laguna Art , New York Art and her own Atelier-gallery in Vence. She is an Iyengar Yoga teacher and helps individuals align with their passion.

Where am I going?

Vence is a beautiful medieval village perched on the hills overlooking the Côte d'Azur. Le Mas “Le Claoux”, is a 20 minute walk downhill into this beautiful artistic town which is a renowned artists hubs with history, beauty and culture rolled into one. Vence captures French old school chic with its cobbled streets, small squares and elegant shops, bistros and galleries. Le Claoux's stunning panoramic views are reason alone to kick back, relax and take in the beauty of the world.

Your home for the week

Your home for the week will be the stunning Mas Le Claoux. All of the accommodation is sharing and spread out throughout the 4 beautiful bedrooms. Rooms accommodate 2 people with comfortable beds, a private bathroom per room. The house has panoramic views with a stunning pool and landscaped gardens . You will spend a wonderful week here relaxing and getting back to yourself. Click through the images below to see more of Le Claoux.

What is included?

Your workshop includes:

6 nights accommodation (Linens and Towels provided)
1 Meditation Session daily
1 Yoga Session daily
2 museum visits
Daily painting class
Daily Breakfast
Lunches and Dinners
Fruit, tea and snacks available through out the day
Free use of the pool and space at Le Claoux
1 massage
Pick up & Drop off - (conditions apply)

WORKSHOP FEE € 2500 (to hold your space, please pay your €500 non-refundable deposit online)

Not included:

Flights
Any extra

Logistics

Airport pickup and drop off will be from Nice Airport:

The closest airport to the villa is Nice airport, the villa is a 35-minute drive or 1-hour bus ride away.

Arrival by bus: The South of France is well connected by rail to other French cities and to other countries notably Italy. The major stations are Nice and Antibes. There are two buses that travel to Vence from the airport passing via the Cagnes sur Mer train station, the number 400 and number 94. They pass approximately every 15 - 30 minutes, take 1 - 1.25 hours and cost 2 EUR. The ride up to Vence is very scenic and if you take the 400 you will pass by the historic village of St Paul de Vence. Once you arrive in Vence, it is a 5-minute car journey to the villa. Transfer from Vence up to the house can be organized and will be free of charge.

Arrival by taxi or Uber: range from 35 to 60 euros