Cheers to a wonderful Year of growth!

December marks the peak harvest from our beautiful persimmon trees!

The year 2025 was a vibrant tapestry of artistic exploration, featuring diverse masterclasses from Japanese book making in the sunshine and fiber paper collage with foraged materials to bold abstract acrylics on wood panel. Expressive and fresh color drenched watercolor workshops with Brenda Swenson and cool abstract alchemy contrasts made with minimal, earthy pigments deep personal reflection with Judy Kruger.

Instructors didn't just teach; they fostered a truly immersive experience, sharing their expertise and inspiration both in the studio and during deep, meaningful conversations over dinner. Moments like peaceful walks to the pond and watching beautiful Californian sunsets became opportunities for sharing life stories, ensuring every participant left with a profound sense of enrichment and a deeper connection to their chosen medium.

"Between sessions, we refueled with gourmet lunches and ended the day with Mediterranean-style deluxe dinners. All the while soaking in exquisite views of the central coast. It's hard not to feel inspired when the barn doors are open to that kind of beauty." Andrea Wedell

The food was outstanding this year. So many gorgeous farm fresh meals (customized to our guests dietary preferences) and prepared by Chef Karen Hutchison of Healing Harvest for every workshop! Artists need fuel to get the most out of each studio session and we have the right team for the job for our upcoming season. Chef Karen always sources local seasonal fare and comes up with the most delicious flavors each meal celebrating all sorts of wonderful global ingredients and beloved recipes.

We are so grateful to all who came to Willow Pond, to stay, to teach and to create with other artists this year! Really looking forward to an even fuller lineup of stellar artist instructors in 2026!