Young Artists Mentorship
Art In Nature Retreat
A Three Day Retreat
July 10, 11, 12th 2026
Nell’s Woodland invites ten emerging High School artists who demonstrate an interest in visual arts to an immersive, three-day collaborative art retreat. Selected through a competitive portfolio process, participants will engage in hands-on mentorship across a range of disciplines, including plein air painting, wet felting, cyanotype photography, and a shared collaborative project.
At the heart of the retreat is the creation of a collaborative project. Each artist contributes an individual piece that becomes part of a unified work, symbolizing both personal expression and collective vision. This culminating artwork will be exhibited publicly, celebrating the power of collaboration and community.
Set within the natural landscape of Nell’s Woodland, the retreat fosters connection, experimentation, and creative growth. Participants will explore new materials and techniques, exchange ideas with peers, and build meaningful relationships with fellow artists and experienced mentors. More than a workshop, this program is a dynamic space for inspiration, skill-building, and the formation of a lasting creative network.
Applications for this program have closed, however we encourage you to apply for next years program.
Applications for 2027 will be released in January of 2027.
Featured Mentors
En Plein Painting
Natalie Zelman is a multi-media artist with a focus on 2D hand-created images. Her methods range from print-making, watercolor, acrylic, and collage. Natalie's work has incorporated mixed media: Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, and Collage. Materials utilized: watercolor, pastels, oil pastels, and acrylics. Inspiration: I continually return to nature as the source for my work. Website: 3gracesfarmart.com Instagram: @3gracesfarmart
Cyanotype
Amanda Weygand Zehr
Amanda is an artist based in Ottawa Illinois, where she owns and operates Open Space Gallery. Her work explores the relationship between humans and the natural world through Cyanotype and experimental photographic processes. Inspiration: Drawn to the intersection of light, chemistry, and organic material, I create images that don’t simply depict nature but are made in collaboration with it. Website: www.openspacegallery.com Instagram: @openspaceartgallery Facebook: Open Space Art Gallery
Wet Felting
Jacqueline JoAnn
Jacqueline specializes in fiber textiles. Her fiber art is a heartfelt exploration of the beauty and serenity found in nature through intricate interplay of textile colors and textures. Inspiration: I aim to transport viewers to serene moments in nature, inviting them to connect with what our environment offers. As I stitch I am reminded of the interconnection of all living things. Website: www.JacquelineJoAnn.com Facebook: JacquelineJoAnn Instagram: @jjahfiberart
Mosaics
Sue Webb
A past educator and lifelong artist, Sue designs and pieces together mosaics out of ceramic tiles. Inspiration: I’m inspired by nature, but it’s the colors within the mosaic that truly shape the piece guiding its emotion, movement, and overall feel.
Program Includes:
3 Days Immersed in Nature
Let nature inspire you to curate your art without distraction at Nell's Woodland.
Mentorship Guidance
Experience mentors in en plein painting, cyanotype, wet feltlng, and mosaic will be leading our daily class programs and be a leg of support.
Collaborative Project
Students will collaborate together on a mosaic piece that will be publicaly displayed in the community.
Creative Networking
Students will engage with one another and mentors, showcasing and networking with one another.
Accommodations &
Art Supplies Provided
All meals are provided for all students. all art supplies are provided by Nell's Woodland.
Mural Walk Downtown Ottawa
Enjoy a downtown mural walk, showcasing the beautiful art around downtown Ottawa.
Artist Culinary Cooking Experience
Artists will enjoy an evening of cooking in the kitchen as we prepare our dinner.
Fire & Talent Share
Prepare for a campfire, smores, and sharing your special talents with us!
A Special Thank you
Nell's Woodland would like to thank the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, as the mentorship program receives partial funding from the Arts of Starved Rock Country Fund, a component of the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation alongside support from the Illinois Arts Council.
