French Riviera: Artist Retreat
La Napoule Art Foundation, Mandelieu-La Napoule France

Facilitated by artist Kathleen Dunn Jacobs.

Limited to 10 participants

DATES: September 24 – 30, 2026

$4500 – Single Ensuite Room with Sea View, Per Person

$4300 – Single Ensuite Room with garden view

Please note: $100 discount for payment is paid in full at time of registration.

$250 Deposit Due before December 15, 2025

LOCATION: Six evenings on the French Riviera at Chateau de La Napoule

Artist Retreat at the La Napoule Art Foundation

The Immersive Artist Retreat, led by Kathleen Dunn Jacobs and hosted by the La Napoule Art Foundation, will take place from September 24 to 30, 2026, at the historic Château de La Napoule in Mandelieu-La Napoule, France. This program is designed to provide artists with focused time for creative work in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Facilitation by Kathleen Dunn Jacobs

Drawing on her personal experience with the artistic culture of the French coast, Kathleen Dunn Jacobs will foster collaboration and peer support throughout the retreat. She will facilitate constructive dialogue within the Riviera’s historic ambiance. Jacobs previously received an art scholarship to study at the La Napoule Art Foundation while pursuing her BFA in Painting and Art History at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

The Immersive Experience

This retreat differs from conventional tours or workshops by dedicating time exclusively to creative exploration rather than travel-related activities. No formal artistic instruction is offered, giving participants the opportunity to advance their individual artistic practices and draw inspiration from the unique environment of the French Riviera. Distractions are minimized, allowing artists to fully focus on their creative pursuits. Participants will enjoy shared accommodations, each with a private room and bath, encouraging a sense of community while also offering flexible workspace options for individual work, both indoors and outdoors.

A Magical Setting: Historical Venue

The retreat is hosted within the exquisitely restored Château de La Napoule, which offers an inspiring blend of history and natural beauty. The château features grand windows that frame views of the Mediterranean Sea and vibrant gardens, providing exceptional natural light and an atmosphere that nurtures creativity. The formal gardens, adorned with ancient cypress trees, colorful flower beds, and tranquil fountains, invite reflection and artistic inspiration. The château’s historic architecture, with its ornate stonework, elegant arches, and centuries-old turrets, tells the story of a bygone era while seamlessly integrating contemporary art spaces curated by the La Napoule Art Foundation.

Located on the breathtaking French Riviera, the setting combines the magic of the sea, lush landscapes, and the soothing sounds of nature, making it ideal for artistic growth and personal development.

Historical Significance of La Napoule Art Foundation

The La Napoule Art Foundation has a rich artistic legacy, established in the early 20th century by American sculptor Henry Clews and his wife, Marie Clews. After acquiring the château in 1918, they devoted themselves to its restoration and transformation into a vibrant center for art. Henry Clews, known for his whimsical sculptures and visionary approach, infused the château with his artistic spirit. Marie Clews cultivated the gardens and fostered a welcoming atmosphere for artists. Their combined efforts preserved the historic architecture and created a lasting cultural hub that continues to inspire artists worldwide. Today, the foundation supports contemporary artistic endeavors in a setting steeped in history, remaining true to the Clews’ vision of nurturing creativity and fostering cross-cultural exchange.

Participant Profile

This retreat is open to both emerging and established artists seeking dedicated time for creative work. It is ideal for those wishing to connect with fellow artists in a setting renowned for its tradition of serious artmaking. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with an international artist venue, enriching their practice and learning about the professional opportunities offered at the La Napoule Art Foundation.

Arrival and Departure Dates and Timing

Participants will arrive at Villa Marguerite on September 24 by 1:00 PM and depart on September 30 by 10:00 AM.

Accommodations

Villa Marguerite offers a truly enchanting European retreat, brimming with charm and character that distinguishes it from standard accommodations. With its elegant architectural details, sunlit communal spaces, and picturesque views, the villa radiates a warm and inviting ambiance reminiscent of a classic European home. The thoughtfully curated interiors, paired with the villa’s lush gardens and proximity to the sparkling Mediterranean, immerse guests in the timeless beauty and laid-back sophistication of the French Riviera. Here, you’ll experience the genuine essence of European living—where leisurely breakfasts, convivial gatherings, and serene moments of reflection create an atmosphere that feels both inspiring and delightfully unique.

The villa provides comfortable, recently renovated accommodations on the grounds of Château de La Napoule. The group will reside together, with each guest enjoying a private en-suite room offering serene sea (for an additional charge)or garden views. Standard single rooms with private baths ensure privacy and convenience; enhanced view rooms are available for an additional charge.

The villa features a shared kitchen for meal preparation, laundry facilities, and a communal meeting space to encourage interaction. Rooms are refreshed once during the stay.

Conveniently situated, it offers access to numerous dining establishments nearby, enabling participants to sample local cuisine or prepare their own meals when dinner is not included in the program. The environment and amenities are designed to foster creativity and support personal well-being.

Daily Meal & Activity Overview

• Morning Yoga: Optional sessions for gentle movement and mindfulness.
• Breakfast: Continental selections served daily.
• Dedicated morning sessions for artistic exploration.
• Lunch: Salad and sandwich bar provided each day.
• Dedicated afternoon sessions for artistic exploration
• Periodic optional self-guided excursions
• Dinners: Two chef-prepared dinners with wine receptions and three-course meals. Other nights are self-led for dining.

September 24 — Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

Check-in begins after 1:00 PM. Upon arrival, settle into your room at Villa Marguerite and get comfortable. At 4:00 PM, join a welcome gathering at the château and gardens, enjoy rosé on the terrace, and meet Kathleen and the Art Foundation staff for an introduction to the program. The evening features a chef-prepared welcome dinner and a leisurely walk through the seafront arcade of the château.

September 25 — Day 2: Immersive Art and Wellness

Start with yoga on the rooftop, followed by breakfast. The morning is dedicated to painting or drawing. After lunch, participate in a guided tour of the LNAF Museum. In the afternoon, continue your artistic practice. Dinner is self-led, with local restaurants available.

September 26 — Day 3: Artistic Exploration and Outdoor Inspiration

Begin with rooftop yoga and breakfast. Spend the morning painting or drawing, followed by lunch. Create art outdoors in the château gardens and later hike to San Peyre for inspiration. Dinner is flexible: dine locally or travel to Cannes for regional cuisine.

September 27 — Day 4: Artistic Practice and Relaxation

Yoga on the rooftop starts the day, followed by breakfast. Dedicate the morning and afternoon to painting or drawing. Lunch is served at the villa. Optional beach swimming is available. Dinner is self-led, providing flexibility for dining choices.

September 28 — Day 5: Creative Exploration and Optional Excursions

Start with yoga and breakfast, then enjoy a morning of painting or drawing. In the afternoon, choose to visit Cannes for museums, lunch, or continue your creating work at the château. Dinner is self-led.

September 29 — Day 6: Artistic Farewell and Reflection

Yoga on the rooftop begins the day, followed by a farewell breakfast gathering on the Mer Bleue terrace. Continue painting or drawing in the morning, with lunch at the villa. The afternoon offers more artistic sessions and optional beach swimming. The week concludes with a farewell dinner at a local La Napoule restaurant, where participants can share their work. End the day with a peaceful walk through the château’s seafront arcade.

September 30 — Day 7: Departure

The final day is dedicated to departures. All participants should plan to leave by 10:00 AM. Transportation to the airport is self-arranged.

Cultural Events and Amenities

During the retreat, participants can engage in a variety of cultural events, including an orientation session on Henry Clews. Complimentary access to ongoing exhibitions is provided, allowing engagement with contemporary and historical artworks. Evening concerts may be scheduled, offering live performances in an inspiring setting. Free guided tours of the château and gardens are available, enabling full appreciation of the location’s beauty.

Wireless Internet Wireless internet is available in the common areas for convenience and connectivity during the retreat.

Location and Accessibility

Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Château de La Napoule is a 30-minute car ride from Nice and can be reached by a 28-minute train journey from Nice, with the station located opposite the La Napoule Art Foundation. Cannes is accessible by a 9-minute train ride from La Napoule, with hourly departures. More information is available to help plan your trip: https://www.lnaf.org/plan-your-visit-2/directions/#:~:text=Map%20and%20Transports,Avenue%20Henry%20Clews.

Payment for inclusive Artist Retreat and Terms Please note: $100 discount for payment is paid in full at time of registration.

• Private ensuite room with a sea view in Villa Marguerite is $4,500.
• Private ensuite room with a garden view in Villa Marguerite, the cost is $4,300.

A deposit of $250 is required to reserve your space by December 15, 2025

The remaining balance will be due over 2 additional equal payments approximately 6 months and 3 months before the retreat day. You will be emailed an invoice for each payment 2 weeks prior to the due date.

• Payment Schedule: • December 15, 2025 – a non-refundable deposit of $250 is due to secure the selected room and dates:
• $2,200 • Due March 5, 2026 – a non-refundable payment equal to approximately 1/2 of the total
• $2,050 • June 12, 2026 – a non-refundable payment equal to the remainder of the final balance is due.

​Cancellation Policy:

Your deposit and subsequent payments are a commitment, and each payment becomes non-refundable at the time it is received.

If you are forced to cancel prior to 3 months before the start of the retreat and your reserved spot can be transferred to another person, we will refund any previous payments less a $500 fee that includes the initial deposit and an additional cancellation fee. No refunds or transfers will be available after your final payment.

*By registering for this trip with your deposit, you agree to the above Cancellation Policy and to purchase your own trip insurance.