Expressions in Mexican Smalti and other Creative Wanderings

Mosaic Mastery Retreat in Puerto Vallarta. Workshop Fee $2,260, does not include airfare.

January 11–17, 2026 | 5-Day Immersive Workshop

Join us for an unforgettable artistic retreat in the vibrant heart of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This 5-day hands-on workshop is designed for mosaic artists of all levels eager to deepen their practice with Mexican smalti in a stunning coastal setting.

Your Retreat Experience Includes:

• 6 nights’ accommodation at The Joint Boutique Hotel — a stylish, modern space just two blocks from the beach in the lively Romantica neighborhood. Each guest enjoys a private en suite room (double, queen, or king beds available).
• 5 days of expert instruction (Monday–Friday, 10 AM to 2 PM), with afternoons free for relaxation, beach time, or studio work.
• 25+ hours of studio time, including optional open studio sessions most evenings.
• All materials included for structured exercises — substrates, adhesive, concrete colorants and Mexican smalti provided.
• Daily gourmet meals — 6 buffet breakfasts (Mon–Sat), 5 buffet lunches (Mon–Fri), and a welcome cocktail reception on Sunday evening.
• One-on-one guidance to develop and plan your next personal mosaic projects, with support in design, material selection, andamento, and fabrication methods.

During the workshop, you’ll explore:

• Color theory and gradation using smalti
• Foundational and advanced andamento techniques
• Innovative design strategies and aesthetic enhancements
• Concrete colorants and custom substrate creation

Participants will complete a series of four or more mosaic studies, with the option to work abstractly or figuratively. You’re also encouraged to bring your own projects to work on during open studio sessions.

Workshop Fee Includes:

• Hotel accommodation (single room with private bath)
• All workshop instruction and materials noted above
• Meals as listed
• Access to private studio space with natural light, ergonomic workstations, and secure access

Guest Policy:
Bring a companion! For an additional $125, your guest may share your room and enjoy breakfast, lunch, and the Sunday evening reception (does not include workshop participation). A limited number of rooms are available for couples. If two students wish to share a room and both attend the workshop, contact Bonnie for pricing and availability.

Important Notes:

• Airfare not included. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
• For early arrivals or extended stays, please reach out to Bonnie directly.
• Rooms assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Do not purcahase your air tickets until Bonnie confirms class has met minimum.

This workshop is hosted in collaboration with Maverick Mosaics, in support of developing artist-centered retreats at The Joint.

Ready to take your mosaic practice to the next level while soaking up the magic of Mexico? Reserve your spot today — space is limited to just 12 students!

Students are responsible for bringing the following:

• SeaBell wheeled nipper
• Tweezers
• Steel Spatulas
• Safety Glasses
• Picks and other basic tools you like to work with
• Graph paper and design materials (ruler, pencils, eraser, colored pencils, etc.)

Optional: Table top hardie and hammer (instructors will bring one for sharing).

ADDITIONAL SAVINGS: if you make purchase via snail mail check a 2.5% discount is extended, tuition reduced to $2,205. Basically you are not charged credit card fees.

Click purchase to the right of screen, which takes you to check out, select check payment. Complete the no charge purchase and that officially signs you up for workshop. Bonnie will send you an email with snail mail address. Receipt of check confirms your spot in the workshop. 

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Before August 1, 2025 100% refund less $100 administrative fee

August 2 – October 1, 2025 100% refund less $250 administrative fee

October 2 – December 1, 2025 100% refund less $500

December 2 – no refunds. However, if we (or you) can sell your spot, we will refund you 100% refund less $100 administrative fee.

featured  photo from Perdomo Smalti factory