The inaugural Winter Art Escape brought artists together for sunlit days of creativity, exclusive painting locations, and unforgettable camaraderie. From scenic coastal vistas to vibrant evening gatherings, this retreat proved that even winter can be the perfect season for inspiration. Read the full recap and start planning your next artistic adventure!
The cobblestone streets of St. Augustine came alive with the vibrant energy of artists this February as PleinAir Magazine’s publisher Eric Rhoads unveiled the inaugural Winter Art Escape in America’s oldest city.
While record winter storms raged across the country, leaving millions snowed in, the sun-drenched Florida destination proved to be the perfect antidote for winter-weary painters. With temperatures hovering at 75 degrees, artists found themselves in an ideal creative haven.
On February 8th, approximately 80 artists from across the globe converged in St. Augustine, each greeted with a thoughtfully curated painter’s bag brimming with supplies from leading art companies.
The week began with an immersive historic trolley tour, offering artists a rich understanding of St. Augustine’s painting possibilities. In a delightful twist, the group made a pilgrimage to the legendary Fountain of Youth, where they sipped from the spring that has captivated visitors for centuries. The excitement was palpable as artists unpacked their easels, ready to capture the city’s timeless beauty. A true historical moment came when they became the first-ever group granted permission to paint within the hallowed grounds of the Lady of La Leche mission, their easels standing where countless feet had trod before, but never with paintbrush in hand.
Their canvases captured the majesty of Flagler College, the dignified City Hall, the nation’s oldest house, and the atmospheric beaches and lighthouses that define St. Augustine’s coastline.
As twilight descended, the creativity continued to flow. Evening sessions sparkled with variety, from the musical talents of Rick Wilson and Eric Rhoads to portrait painting sessions with local models. The group’s camaraderie reached new heights during special celebrations, including a lively Super Bowl party that had artists trading paintbrushes for team colors, and a heartwarming Valentine’s Day celebration where the longest-married couples received special recognition while everyone indulged in chocolate treats.
A highlight of the social calendar was an elegant cocktail reception hosted by the local galleries Lost Art Gallery and Sea Spirits, where artists engaged in spirited discussions while voting on their favorite historic and contemporary artworks. These gatherings provided the perfect complement to days filled with intensive painting.
Each evening, artists proudly displayed their day’s work for all to see—a practice that encouraged everyone to stretch their creative boundaries. The impromptu gallery grew daily, with most artists completing between one and four paintings each day. The collective display became a visual diary of the retreat, showcasing how each artist interpreted the same locations through their unique artistic lens.
Between shared meals, painting sessions, and evening festivities, something magical happened—strangers became friends, and friends became family.
“I just wanted to thank you again for putting together such an awesome event! [We] really enjoyed it and we made lots of new friends and connections. Saint Augustine really is a beautiful place and a wonderful city to paint!” ~ Stephanie R., attendee at the Winter Art Retreat
A dedicated team orchestrated the success of this inaugural escape, including Eric Rhoads, Events Director Skye Fallon, and Events Manager Ginia Daucher. Their attention to detail and passion for creating meaningful experiences was clear in every aspect of the retreat.
For those already dreaming of next year’s escape, mark your calendars. The Winter Art Escape will venture to the historic charm of Hilton Head and Savannah, promising new vistas and adventures for plein air enthusiasts. Registration is open at winterartescape.com. (Due to the overwhelming success of this first winter retreat and the deep bonds formed among participants, we highly recommend that you register early.)
In St. Augustine, these artists didn’t just capture scenes on canvas—they painted themselves into history, creating a masterpiece of memories.
When departure day arrived, the goodbye hugs lingered a little longer, and promises to reunite next year were exchanged with genuine emotion. The inaugural Winter Art Escape proved that even in the coolest months, the warmth of the artistic community can induce the perfect creative climate.
Editor’s Note: Eric Rhoads hosts several amazing Publisher’s Invitational artist retreats throughout the year. The next one is Paint Adirondacks in Upstate New York, June 7-14, 2025.
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