Plein Air Painters of America (PAPA): a rare opportunity to paint in “Dixon Country”
Join Chris in Mt. Carmel, Utah,
May 18 – 22, 2026
I’m excited to invite you to join me and my fellow Signature Members of the Plein Air Painters of America (PAPA) for a rare opportunity to paint in what many of us affectionately call “Dixon Country.” This biannual destination workshop—offered through Scottsdale Artists’ School—is one I always look forward to. The setting, the camaraderie, and the shared focus on painting the land that inspired Maynard Dixon make it unlike any other workshop I teach.
Join Chris in painting outdoors in “Dixon Country.”
CHRIS MOREL PAINTING ONSITE AT THE REDLANDS CONSERVANCY: www.matteucci.com
The workshop will emphasize essential principles of plein air painting—composition, drawing, value, and color—while helping you develop confidence and strengthen your personal style. Expect individual guidance, daily demonstrations, and a dynamic learning environment.
Portable equipment and transportation required
Plein Air Painters of America (PAPA)
May 18–22 in Mt. Carmel, Utah, at the historic Maynard Dixon property.
Plein Air Painters of America (PAPA) at the historic Maynard Dixon property, part of the Thunderbird Foundation Gallery.
Dates: May 18–22
Where: Mount Carmel, UT
Save the dates!
Registration Information
Details
In 2026, we’ll gather May 18–22 in Mt. Carmel, Utah, on the historic Maynard Dixon home and studio property, now part of the Thunderbird Foundation Gallery. It’s an extraordinary place to work: the same dramatic landscape Dixon painted, with its sweeping skies, bold forms, and ever-changing light. As a bonus, PAPA’s national exhibition opens on May 16, and I encourage participants to join us for the celebration.
The workshop is open to artists of all experience levels. You’re welcome to work in acrylic, gouache, watercolor, or any medium you’re comfortable with—though all of us instructors will be demoing in oil.
What the week looks like
Monday, May 18
- Visual presentations from the instructors
- A private guided tour of the Dixon home and studio
Tuesday–Friday, May 19–22
- Four full days painting outdoors in the stunning terrain surrounding Mt. Carmel
- You’ll rotate between two instructor teams:
- Michael Obermeyer & Kathleen Dunphy
- Eric Jacobsen & Chris Morel
It’s always an inspiring week of painting, learning, and connecting with fellow artists. I hope you’ll join us.
PLUS, three significant Extras:
- PAPA’s National Exhibition Opening (May 16) – View outstanding work and mingle with over 35 PAPA Signature Members.
- The Wet Paint Show – Featuring freshly painted work from the area, displayed in Dixon’s original studio.
- An In-Depth Tour – Explore Maynard Dixon’s life and legacy through his home, studio, and surrounding grounds.
Sign up Now!
MORE INFORMATION:
https://www.scottsdaleartschool.org/exhibitions/16-plein-air-painters-of-america/
or
REGISTER:
https://reg129.imperisoft.com/SAS/ProgramDetail/3537353330/Registration.aspx
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Call
Cell: 575-737-1042
Address
Chris Morel
5330 State Highway 518,
Vadito, NM 87579
Email Chris
info@morelart.com