​ Note from the Atelier Hi There Reader... As summer begins to wind down, we wrapped up our virtual adventures in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine—and what a lovely journey it was! From coastal charm to local blueberries to their infamous loon, our time summering there was the perfect blend of art and escape. We also welcomed a wave of new Artful Travelers during our very first Académie à la Carte offering—the 30 Day Value Challenge. It was exciting to see so many of you dive in and strengthen your painting practice. We’re already looking forward to the next one! This month, we’re also pulling back the curtain on our social media schedule—sharing the thoughtful rhythm behind what we post each day (with a wink to the Hallmark crew and the geniuses behind National Avocado Day). If you’re not already following us, now’s a great time to join the fun. And as always, we’re spotlighting our favorite August travel destinations and can’t-miss art exhibitions—perfect for sparking your wanderlust or next painting. Stay cool, my friends, fall is almost here... P.S. Don’t forget—it’s back-to-school season, which means big savings on art-related supplies! I'm like a kid in a candy store when I walk past the bins of pens and markers and notepads and post-its. And I can never pass up another ruler. But you know what I never really liked...the 'ole Trapper Keeper. Go figure. Anyway, it's the perfect time to stock up!

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What fun it was to summer in Bar Harbor!! We continued our exploration through July by painting Maine's infamous loons, along with a rocky riverbed. We also dipped our toes into plein air painting and did a fun value exercise that aligned nicely with the 30 Day Value Challenge!

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Our First Academie a la Carte Offering Was a Big Hit!

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Our very first Académie à la Carte offering — the 30-Day Value Challenge — has wrapped and what an inspiring journey it’s been! Over the past month, Artful Travelers - new and old - came together to focus not on color, but on the often-overlooked foundation of every great painting: value. With daily prompts and quick and easy exercises, we explored Notan studies, practiced simplifying into 3 and 5 values and learned how to better observe the world around us — whether working from a photo or painting from life.

Artful Travelers embraced the challenge, noting how freeing it felt to set color aside and focus solely on light, form and contrast. This study shifted their perception, helping them avoid the common trap of being “fooled” by color or dramatic lighting. The daily exercises were designed to help artists improve compositions, create stronger focal points and imbue a renewed sense of confidence in their own artistic choices. Below are some of the studies from my sketchbook.

Stay tuned: a brand new Académie à la Carte challenge is coming this fall!

Notan Study

3 Value Study ​

5 Value Study ​

Let me know about Future Challenges!

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Don't Miss These Exhibitions in August

Gustave Caillebotte Painting His World Art Institute, Chicago I know I shared this last month, but I had an opportunity to see this exhibit last month and it is phenomenal!! I highly recommend it!! This exhibit offers a rare look at the Impressionist’s intimate, modern vision—from rain-soaked Paris streets to quiet domestic moments. With over 120 works on view, the exhibition highlights his bold compositions, personal subjects and pioneering perspective on everyday life. Thru October 5th. Learn More

American Impressionist Society 26th Annual Juried Exhibition Hamilton, Montana Opening August 1st at Cassens Fine Art in Hamilton, Montana, this exhibit showcases a stunning collection of contemporary impressionist works from across the country. Featuring nearly 200 juried paintings selected from a highly competitive pool of entries, the exhibition celebrates the vibrant spirit and diverse techniques of American impressionism. Through September 2nd. Learn More

American Landscapes National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. Opening August 2nd, the American Landscapes exhibit invites visitors on a sweeping visual journey across the diverse terrain of the United States—from the dramatic vistas of the Rocky Mountains to the serene stillness of New England shorelines. Showcasing works by 19th- and 20th-century artists, the exhibit explores how artists have interpreted the natural world to express national identity, personal reflection and environmental awareness. Learn More

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Stay Connected All Week Long

Did you know there's a rhythm to what we share on Facebook and Instagram—and that most posts are designed to match something interesting or meaningful happening that day in history (or one of your favorite Hallmark holidays)? Each weekday even has its own theme:

• Artful Musings (Mondays) – Artful Musings begin with a powerful quote from a renowned artist or influential figure, offering insight into the creative journey. These musings connect life, art and travel
• Traveler’s Touchstone (Tuesdays) – Traveler's Touchstones celebrate the places, cultures and artistic inspirations found across the globe. These posts highlight significant travel moments, share intriguing historical or cultural insights and highlight the beauty of a destination
• Artful Insights (Wednesdays) – Artful Insights offer tips and techniques, creative habits and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the artistic journey -- all designed to strengthen your creative skills
• Artful Reflections (Thursdays) – Artful Reflections encourage you to pause and sketch/journal about your experiences, using prompts to reflect upon your personal, artistic and travel-inspired journeys
• Explorer’s Palette (Fridays) – Explorer’s Palette showcases intriguing, inspiring and/or beautiful destinations you may one day wish to visit. We also highlight something very specific to explore while visiting the destination.

If you’re not already following along, we'd love to welcome you there. Come join the conversation and get a little spark of artful inspiration in your feed each day! You can find and follow the Artful Traveler Atelier on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest by clicking the icons below:

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August's Best Destinations

Door County, Wisconsin Harbors and Cherry Hues Door County, Wisconsin is a charming August escape, with sunny days, cool lake breezes and orchards bursting with cherries. The peninsula’s scenic shoreline and quaint towns offer endless inspiration for painters and travelers alike. Art fairs, farmers markets and outdoor concerts make it a lively yet peaceful summer retreat.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico Color, Culture & Cobblestone San Miguel de Allende offers a vibrant escape in August, with its rich colonial architecture, colorful streets and thriving arts scene. While afternoon rains bring a refreshing break from the summer heat, the city remains lively with cultural festivals, open-air markets and creative inspiration around every corner.

Scottish Highlands, Scotland Where Mist Meets Myth and Mountain August is an ideal time to visit the Scottish Highlands, when the weather is at its mildest and the hills bloom with vibrant purple heather. Longer daylight hours offer more time to explore the dramatic landscapes, while festivals like the Highland Games bring Scottish culture to life. It's also the perfect season for plein air painting and soaking in the region’s untamed beauty.

Banff & Lake Louise, Canada Nature’s Palette, Canadian Edition August is the perfect time to visit Banff and Lake Louise, when the turquoise lakes are at their brightest and the wildflower-filled trails are fully open. Long daylight hours and mild mountain weather make it ideal for sketching, hiking and soaking in panoramic alpine views. It’s a stunning natural studio for any Artful Traveler.

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Now is the perfect time to become an Artful Traveler! Whether you're a seasoned painter or just rediscovering your creative spark, we'd love for you to join us on this journey. We believe that everyone has an inner artist just waiting to be nurtured.

Click Here to Join Us

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