Deep blue pools, exciting whitewater and long summer days will frame the unique workshop opportunity on the Rogue River with Cascade Fine Art Workshops. Raft Guides and Professional Artists James Sampsel and David Kinker will lead a group of adventurous students both on the river and with their paint brushes August 30-September 3. Story by Renee Patrick
“The Rogue lends inspiration so naturally you almost forget anything before the trip or how you got there,” Sampsel said. “It’s the perfect setting to release and be one with your surroundings and medium…There is a wonderful balance of time spent on the boats relaxing, photographing, and if desired paddling, and time translating your media.”
Cascade Fine Art Workshops Owner, Sue Manley devised the creative adventure after hearing about a similar workshop the two raft guides conducted for ROW Adventures in 2013. “When David told me about the 2013 trip – with raft guides doing all the work while the guests painted in the morning and evenings, staying in lodges, all the food and beverages included and hanging out with artists – it sounded like my idea of heaven!
“We decided to promote the idea that the trip would focus on plein air painting, but also emphasize it being open to anyone interested in expanding their creative sides: writers, photographers, etc.,” Manley explained. “My husband is an avid fly fisherman, and says he feels most creative when on the water, so all ‘significant others’ are welcome too!”
ROW Adventures will be collaborating with Cascade Fine Art Workshops this year and together will provide rafting gear, guides, shuttle service back to the starting point, packing materials for art supplies and equipment, lodging, food, beverages, informal art instruction and demonstrations. “As James said, it’s like taking a ‘cruise’ on the Rogue River!” Manley exclaimed.
“[The trip highlights] the joy, adventure and beauty that the river can offer,” said Kinker. “[As] trained interpretive river guides who are deeply committed and connected to this magnificent place, we routinely share our inspiration and find that by building an awareness of all the interconnectedness of our wild surroundings that the benefits make for peak experiences and memorable, even life changing effects. This is not only great for our participants, but is also extremely rewarding for us as we compose with nature a perfect experience.”
The inclusive five day trip is $1,697, with a maximum of 20 participants. Spots are still available.
Sue Manley 541-408-5524
www.cascadefineartworkshops.com
info@cascadefineartworkshops.com