Painting Icebergs - Art in a Disappearing Landscape

May 16-22, 2026 | Seven Day Workshop

Another Truly Unique Experience... Sign me up!

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Prepare for an extraordinary journey where the world of plein-air painting and photography meets the excitement of exploration! Join us in Newfoundland and Labrador, a region renowned for its distinctive and seldom-visited coastal areas that are certain to ignite your interest. Our experienced and knowledgeable instructors, Monika Wright and Pete Ryan, who are renowned in their fields and have a wealth of experience in plein-air painting and photography, will guide you through this unique experience.

Embark on a journey to witness a unique and significant event in Newfoundland and Labrador. Today, icebergs remain a symbol of changes to the climate of our planet. This is not just a trip, it's a chance to witness the impact of climate change firsthand. We will focus on the springtime ice floe and the icebergs that originate from Greenland, making their way west to the Northwest Passage before journeying south along the coasts of Baffin Island and Labrador. As a result of global warming, this spectacle, which historically has taken place in the second week of May, now tends to unfold in late April. As such, our experience is timed with the arrival of the icebergs.

Get ready for an adventure filled with unpredictability. Iceberg chasing in Newfoundland and Labrador is a thrilling experience. The behemoths that reach our shores, some still in the 30- to 40-storey range, while others may have hollowed out, leaving the onlooker with arches and turrets that resemble a castle sculpted by waves. As iceberg chasing can be unpredictable -- patience, timing, and serendipity are all part of the adventure. Please note that this adventure involves some physical activity, including walking and possibly climbing, so be prepared for an active experience.

Billed as a 'field workshop,' this event is a comprehensive resource designed for those seeking to get the most out of their art form, whether painting or photography. It's not just about capturing a scene, it's about understanding it. Whether it is the discovery of a hidden site, the perfect angle of another, or the ideal time of day to view it, these factors are equally beneficial for personal observation, whether in painting or photography. The primary aim is to equip you with a critical understanding of a scene and the ability to capture its essence, thereby enhancing your personal growth and confidence in applying these skills to your art form. For the painter, the goal is to capture the scene in one sitting, with minimal additions or finishing touches in the studio later, empowering you to create art with confidence and skill. For the photographer, well, you'll be busy processing your images in the weeks to come. All in all, this multi-day workshop promises to be a complete package, with the travel logistics taken care of.

Weather-wise, the outside temperature this time of year can range from 4°C (40°F) to 20°C (68°F), which can provide for diverse conditions from fog banks to harsh sunlight. No matter the conditions of the day, everyone will have a wealth of subjects to explore. Dramatic coastlines, sweeping barrens, thick boreal forests, and ancient rock formations -- the natural, wild beauty of this place surrounds you at every turn! The living landscape is its own wonder– teeming with seabirds, moose, caribou, and rich marine life. Where the seas permit boat travel, we'll venture to explore remote outports, coastal landforms, wildlife hotspots, and, quite possibly, more icebergs!

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Featured Artist: Meet Monika Wright.

Monika Wright is a Canadian abstract artist based in Nova Scotia. Her work is celebrated for its luminous use of colour and expressive interpretation of the natural world. With years of national and international exhibition and teaching experience, Monika brings both technical expertise and an intuitive approach to her practice. Her workshops are known for their supportive, inspiring atmosphere, where artists of all levels are encouraged to explore their own voices while learning new techniques. Monika’s philosophy centers on painting as a joyful, meditative practice—one that deepens our connection to place while inviting freedom, experimentation, and emotional expression.

In May 2026, Monika will lead a plein air retreat in Newfoundland, guiding participants through a week of painting amidst some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Canada. From rugged coastlines and windswept cliffs to towering icebergs and evocative historic ruins, artists will be immersed in landscapes that stir the imagination. With Monika’s guidance, you’ll learn not only how to capture the beauty before you, but also how to interpret it in a way that feels authentic and alive. Whether inspired by the drama of shifting skies or the quiet poetry of a remote outpost, you’ll return home with both finished works and fresh inspiration—an unforgettable experience of creating magic on canvas.

Featured Photographer: Meet Pete Ryan.

Pete Ryan, the organizer of the event, has a deep connection to the area, shaped by his extensive travels throughout the province, including the Torngat Mountains in northern Labrador. His passion for this region, developed over 20 years of exploration, drives the event. A career photographer, his work is featured by National Geographic and archived in the National Geographic Image Collection, which serves as a visual testament to his inspiration.

Start your day with Pete, capturing the allure of hidden gems while mastering key photography concepts. His objective is to refine your ability to discern the beauty in the intricate details of our daily lives. Amidst the multitude of captivating scenes, we will focus on the challenge of identifying what is both intriguing and visually appealing. Throughout our exploration, his personal touch will be a constant presence, offering insights, guidance, and immediate feedback. He conducts his workshops in the same manner as he approaches his personal shoots, ensuring each participant feels valued and their skills are nurtured.

Historical Interpreter: Gordon Slade is recognized as a Canadian leader for his innovative expertise in the sustainable economic development of some of the world's most unique and economically significant regions. In 2005, Gordon was awarded the Order of Canada and, later in 2020, the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador in recognition of his achievements in spearheading the preservation of Newfoundland and Labrador's heritage.

We are a certified Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism Operator: https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/plan-and-book/tours/36379168

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Rendezvous: Port Rexton, NL.

How to Get There: If you're flying in, Gander International Airport (airport code: YQX) is your best bet for returning your rental car. Gander is closer in proximity to the end location of the workshop. However, you are free to fly-in to St. John's International Airport if you intend to extend your stay. To ensure a smooth journey, please arrive a day early before the start of your workshop. As of September 24, 2025, Air Canada offers a one-way trip from Ottawa (YOW) to Gander (YQX) for $ 370.

Experience Level: All skill levels are welcome. Novice artists are welcome, provided they have a basic understanding of their artform and supplies. We ask the more advanced artists to be understanding if this advice seems trivial.

Daily Routine: Soft adventure—walkabout. Our itinerary is subject to change depending on the weather. We'll start our days early to capture the morning's mood and continue throughout the day to observe the big picture and vignettes of landscapes and seascapes, viewing wildlife and when other opportunities present themselves.

Group Size: Ten (10) people.

Group Rate: If you have a group of four or more people who wish to register simultaneously, please ask the Organizer for a group rate.

Trip Details: Once registration and payment are complete, we shall email registrants a detailed information packet. The packet includes a more precise itinerary, artist accessories/supplies and camera gear suggestions, and a clothing checklist.

FAQ:

* What is included in the Artist Workshop?

For this particular workshop, the cost includes accommodation, and the unique opportunity to learn from two true professionals in a small group environment.

Double occupancy can only be accommodated should another person of the same sex request this option. Consider registering with a friend or your spouse.

The cost does not include transportation to/from the workshop event (flights or car rental), travel insurance, food, optional personal activities, or any art accessories/supplies nor photographic gear.

Transportation: Ground transportation. Car convoy.

Fitness Level:

Soft adventure. You must be reasonably fit, healthy, and accustomed to walking. You must also be willing to rise most mornings between six and seven o'clock (6h00 and 7h00), depending on the weather and opportunities announced the preceding evening. We'll drive to each location and then walk to the best position for viewing. You will be on your feet for at least five hours per day. Sturdy and comfortable footwear is recommended. Reach out if you have limitations.

What if I need to cancel?

If you cancel this event, the following applies: the ticket fees associated with this event are non-refundable. The ticket is, however, fully transferrable should you find someone who would enjoy attending this same event. For those who choose the "Reserve a Spot" option, the remaining balance must be paid by the due date; otherwise, booking cancellation will occur, and any fees already paid will be non-refundable.

For either type of registration booking, should there be a waitlist for this event, we can help you sell your ticket, but the sale is up to you to negotiate and finalize.

We highly recommend all participants consider purchasing travel insurance.

Terms and Conditions:

Registration: The amount specified per person for this event is due when you register. Your space is not reserved until we receive your full payment.

Audit Policy: Only paid participants will be admitted during the event.

Age Restriction: This event is recommended for adults over 19. An adult must accompany any minors under 19. Both adults and minors must pay for each respective spot within the event.

Liability Waiver: By participating in this event, you assume all risk and responsibility for any damages or personal injury that may occur for any reason. By attending this event, you agree to waive the leadership team, including organizers, event organizers, and event instructors, from any liability or injury, loss, or damage to personal properties associated with the activities or location of this event. As our guest, you must comply with our safety rules, be cautioned to heed all warnings and release us from all responsibility for any loss, injury, or damage you may suffer. A general waiver will be presented for review and signing upon arrival.

Cancellation, Refund & Delay Policy: Despite what the Eventbrite Refund Policy may indicate, the ticket fees associated with this event are non-refundable. The ticket is, however, fully transferrable should you find someone who would enjoy attending this same event. Credit cannot be applied to another event.

All event schedules and plans are subject to change at our discretion, dependent upon weather alerts, health and safety considerations, or any other factor related or unrelated to opportunities as we see fit. We are not responsible for any other costs that participants may have incurred, including but not limited to travel, car rental, lodging, insurance, optional personal activities, art supply purchases, and rentals.

No refunds will be given for delays or cancellations due to inclement weather, transportation, or other events beyond our control, either before, during, or after your workshop. We are not responsible for any additional costs you may incur due to delays or cancellations.

Refunds will be issued should the event be cancelled by the Organizer.

We highly recommend that all participants consider purchasing travel insurance.

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