Encaustic Deep Dive
ALL SKILL LEVELS
In this immersive retreat...
we start with a refresher on the basics of encaustic before we delve into a wide range of exciting techniques that will expand your skillset and enhance your artwork.
You will discover how to:
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use layers to build visual depth
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create a beautiful Shellac Burn
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introduce marks and patterns
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incorporate surface textures
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create a flawless image transfer
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incorporate alcohol inks
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create a glossy smooth surface
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make your own paint
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create your own color palettes
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proper studio set up
...all this and more as we spend three full days in the studio together.
Additional Topics covered include:
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Working With Color
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Getting Smooth Surfaces
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Making Paint
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Mixing Colors
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Principles of Composition
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Materials & Tools
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Studio Safety
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Supply Resources.
What students
are saying:
"I regularly attend art retreats, but none have been as incredible as Alicia’s. The days filled with making art, the wonderful food, the lux lodging, and Alicia's generosity made this an unforgettable and truly transformative experience."
Becca R. -
Shellac Effects Retreat 2024
Wild Blooms Retreat 2025
Retreat Location:
This retreat takes place in an inspiring setting that includes my studio, my private home, and the luxury accommodations at the student lodge, all nestled in the scenic foothills of the Northern Rockies.
World-renowned Sun Valley Resort is just 30 minutes away and offers shopping, dining, hotel and spa amenities... so consider planning a few extra days to explore the area and unwind.
Retreat Schedule
Tentative Schedule subject to change
Day 1:
Arrival Day
Welcome Reception & Group Dinner
Students check-in at the Lodge after 4pm. Early arrivals meet at Alicia's Studio for snacks and beverages. After getting settled at the lodge we gather for a little bubbly followed by a group dinner
Day 2:
STUDIO DAY!
Workshop
9:30am - 4:30pm
12pm Lunch
4:30 Happy Hour
5:30 Return to Lodge
6:30 Group Dinner
Relax & chill, hang by the pool sauna or hot tub.
Day 3:
STUDIO DAY!
Workshop
9:30am - 4:30pm
12pm Lunch
4:30 Happy Hour
5:30 Return to Lodge
6:30pm Group Dinner
Gather around the fire pit to roast marshmallows or enjoy some quite time.
Day 4:
STUDIO DAY!
Workshop
9:30am - 5:30pm
12pm Lunch Break
6pm Student Art Review /Happy Hour
Taste of Idaho Dinner at Alicia's
Art Wrap & Pack Party
Day 5:
10am Lodge Check Out
Farewell Group Breakfast at local cafe after checkout
״ Highly recommend Alicia's classes and retreats! She makes a safe and nonjudgmental space for artists to create. I felt so inspired after her retreat that I rushed home and set up my own studio. So worth it! I plan to go again. ״
Nancy W. -
Shellac Effects Retreat
Hello my creative friend.
It’s truly an honor to welcome you into my studio for an immersive and inspiring experience.
I've been a professional artist for over three decades and have been working with encaustic since 1998. Along the way, I’ve developed and pioneered many unique painting techniques and I’m excited to share them with you.
I can’t wait to welcome you into my creative space and make some encaustic magic together!
ENCAUSTIC
DEEP DIVE
SUMMER 2026
RETREAT REGISTRATION
Retreat Dates: JUNE 15 - 19, 2026
Location: Sun Valley, Idaho, USA
Enrollment Tuition Rates:
Early Bird Pricing Through Nov. 15, 2025
*$5400 to *$6250
(price is per person and varies depending on your lodging selection)
Save $250 off tuition when you enroll early.
All prices are posted in US Dollars
*Airfare and additional expenses not included with your tuition.
Tuition Includes:
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Meals & Beverages
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Luxury Lodging
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Studio Workshops
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Art Panels & Materials
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Local Ground Transportation.
*If you select Off-Site Lodging we will send you local hotel recommendations.
Lodging and activities are for registered students only.
We can not accommodate travel companions, children or spouses at retreat locations and events.
Retreat pricing is per person and accommodations are reserved on a first come, first served basis. We will do our best to provide your preferred lodging.
How to register:
1. Select your preferred accommodation from the options above. (Select a new option if your 1st choice is unavailable)
2. You’ll be directed to the Registration & Secure Checkout Form to complete your deposit and reserve your spot.
3. A confirmation email will be sent to you once your deposit has been received.
Note: If you are unable to complete your deposit using the room links above, your selected accommodation may be sold out. Please choose an alternate room option to continue your registration.
Payment Details:
Deposit + 2 Tuition Payments
A Non-refundable / Non-transferable deposit of $1,200 is due at time of booking to secure your spot.
Remaining balance is due in 2 equal installments based on your accommodation selection.
Secure pay links will be emailed when your tuition installment payments are due.
Tuition Installment #1 :
Due 60 days after your reservation
Tuition Installment #2:
Due 90 days after your reservation
If you need additional time to complete your tuition payments, please contact the studio here .
Refund & Cancellation Policy
Thank you for your interest in attending this Encaustic Retreat hosted by Alicia Tormey Studio, LLC.
Please read the Registration & Cancellation Policy carefully.
Retreat Deposit:
Your initial $1200 deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Your deposit is due at time of registration to secure your spot if a space is available.
Tuition Balance
Your tuition is paid in installments beginning with your initial nonrefundable deposit of $1200 followed by two equal payments of your remaining total balance due. 1st tuition payment is due 60 days after registration. Your 2nd payment is due 90 days after registration. Full payment may be required at time of registration if booking within 60 days of retreat start date.
Note: All payments and tuition must be paid in full at least 60 days prior to your retreat start date.
Refunds:
Your initial deposit of $1200 is non-refundable and non-transferable. A 50% refund of tuition paid-to-date will be issued for cancellations made 60 days or more prior to your retreat start date. Cancellations made less than 60 days of your retreat start date are not refundable or transferable.
NO-SHOWS are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE.
If your workshop is cancelled by your instructor and Alicia Tormey Studios, LLC for any reason, you will receive a 100% refund of all tuition payments you have paid to date, including any non-refundable deposits.
Alicia Tormey Studios, LLC is not liable for any additional expenses incurred, including, but not limited to; airfare, transportation and off-site accommodations even if your retreat is cancelled by Alicia Tormey Studios, LLC for any reason.
Failure to pay your tuition fees by the required due dates may result in automatic forfeiture of your enrollment and refund eligibility. If you require more time to make your tuition payments, please contact the studio here prior to your payment due dates.
Upon submitting payment, you agree to these terms and you hold Alicia Tormey Studios, LLC. free from any liability in the event of loss, harm or accidental injury.
Please Note: We cannot accommodate spouses, travel companions or children at the retreat venues and events.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance in case of illness, emergencies, or other unforeseen changes to your plans.
Have questions? Please take a moment to review the FAQ page.
Thank you! Looking forward to having you in the studio for this incredible experience!