Expressions in Mexican Smalti

Mosaic Mastery Retreat in Puerto Vallarta
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 with you. They do not participate in the workshop. Example: you could bring your hubby or sister – anyone you are willing to share a queen or king size bed with for $125 for 6 nights, Sunday through Friday. A limited number of rooms are available for couples and are first come first serve, no guarantees if a king or queen bed.  If two students wish to share a room and both wish to 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.

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!

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.

EVEN MORE SAVINGS FOR THOSE OF YOU WANTING TO TAKE THE WORKSHOP AND WILLING TO SHARE YOUR BED WITH A FRIEND: a shared room, both of you workshop students with meals and supplies as outlined above included, VERY LIMITED AVABILITY . $1,595 per person. Payable in full via check at time of booking. Email Bonnie for sign up.

Commuters: already have your accommodations in PV? VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY. $650 and includes meals and supplies as detailed above, Email Bonnie for sign up.

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.

All money quotes in USD. Featured workshop shop image, smalti from smalti.com