Since the late nineteenth century, Appledore Island, Maine, has been a haven for both amateur and professional artists - painters, poets, musicians, and more! In this tradition, we invite you to join us for several days of drawing, painting, and printmaking. This workshop is an opportunity for artists to immerse themselves in the rugged seascapes and landscapes of the Isles of Shoals and translate Appledore Island's vibrant palette onto paper or canvas. This program is a combination of plein air workshop, watercolor workshop, and island/ New England painting workshop, all in one amazing art class, with plenty of opportunity to pursue your own favorite medium.
There will be daily demonstrations in pencil, pen and ink, watercolor, and gouache, as well as instructor reviews. The instructors work with every student at their own level, beginner to expert. Plus, each day will present new opportunities to learn about marine life and explore Appledore Island's unique coastal and marine habitats. Bring your own art supplies and work at your own pace. A list of suggested materials, packing lists, and protocols to set expectations will be provided by the program leaders approximately 2 weeks prior to the program.
“I return each summer because my body registers the joy I feel when I am there. It is exciting to be in this natural painting environment with scientists at the Marine Lab who can open your eyes to aspects and elements of the environment you’ve not noticed.” - Barbara Houston
(603) 862-5346
Price: $1425.00 for 2025 season
Price is per person, double-occupancy (shared room with same-gender participant or chosen registered companion.) All-inclusive with: overnight dormitory accommodations, all meals, snacks and beverages, all program activities, and round-trip boat transportation between Portsmouth, NH, and Appledore Island. Space is limited due to our vessel and housing capacities, so reserve your spot soon! This program is open to adults 18 years of age and up.
Participants must bring their own bedding for a twin-sized bed. We suggest a sleeping bag and extra blanket or sheet, as well as a pillow case. Pillows are available. A detailed suggested packing list will be sent to registrants prior to the program.
Single-occupancy rooms may be available for an extra charge of $400.00 (100 per night), dependent on availability at time of registration.
Island Environment: Appledore Island is a rugged landscape with uneven, slightly steep and rocky paths. Access on/off the island is via a floating dock, a steep ramp, and a set of stairs. Sturdy walking shoes are required. Please review our Safety at Shoals page for any questions about boat safety, island terrain, medical access, or dietary needs.
- Participants should be prepared for time aboard research vessels and moderate-to-strenuous hikes around Appledore Island to various field sites.
- This program is intended for adults interested in learning more about the marine environment. No university credits are awarded.
- If four nights is too adventurous, consider a day-trip Appledore Island Walking Tour, with tons of natural history information packed into just one afternoon!
Cancellation Received:
- At least 30 days before departure = 100% refund
- 29-15 days before departure = 50% refund
- Less than 15 days before departure = 0%
SML boats will run rain or shine, so long as the captain deems it safe to travel. Passengers should come prepared with appropriate clothing in the event of rain or high winds (ocean spray). If the captain deems travel unsafe, boat schedules may be impacted until the weather passes. Communications regarding any weather-related delays will come via email from SML's main office.
LEADERS
Bill Paarlberg, professional artist
Bill Paarlberg loves to draw and paint watercolors and is especially interested in the many uses of the sketchbook. He works from the studio in his backyard in Kittery Point, and outdoors whenever possible. He has painted at the Isles of Shoals every year for the past dozen years and was Artist-in-Residence at Shoals Marine Lab in 2018 and 2019. Check him out on his website and on Instagram at @billpaarlberg.
Carol Schwartz, professional artist
Carol Schwartz is inspired by nature, as an observer, and as an artist, as is evident in her 60 picture books, largely nonfiction, about nature and specifically with an ocean theme. She has an MFA from the University of Hartford in Connecticut and a BFA earned at the Kansas City Art Institute and Rhode Island School of Design. Her work has been in many national exhibitions such as Focus on Nature XIV and XV and she teaches at Rhode Island School of Design, Eastern Connecticut State University, University of Hartford, and New England College. See more of her work on her website.
