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 the name, “La Citée des Arts” as many artists through the years chose to call it home for the unique light permeating the landscape. This workshop focusses on color and shape. Henry Matisse lived in “La Villa le Rêve”, where he painted and designed “La Chapelle du Rosaire” towards the end of his life. Guided by his vision, you’ll develop a body of work, sketching and painting in Plein Air and in the sudio. Tailored towards all levels, time is punctuated with 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 body and mind, meditation, yoga and sound healing are part of the whole. In the haven of peace and tranquility of the “Mas Le Claoux”, you drop in and find peace. 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..

To book this retreat please fill in the Booking Form below

Your host-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”, recently totally renovated. Accommodation spreads out throughout the seven beautiful bedrooms, all with en-suite bathroom. The house has panoramic views with a stunning pool, sauna and landscaped gardens .

What is included?

6 nights accommodation (Linens, towels and toiletries provided)
1 Meditation, yoga or sound healing session daily
2 museum visits
Guided painting and sketching daily, easels and canvasses provided as well as some paint. Brushes can be purchased or bring your own.
Brunch and dinner (some taken out)
Fruit, tea and snacks available through out the day
Sauna and pool

WORKSHOP FEE € 2500 (500 non refundable deposit)

Not included: