The Open Studio Art Retreat

Evolving Your Abstract Voice

This retreat is designed for those who already have experience with abstract art and want more dedicated time to deepen their practice. The first part of the week focuses on gathering new input - observing the colors, textures, and rhythms of Hoi An, working with local craftspeople, and experimenting with organic and locally sourced materials such as lacquer, coconut paper, earth, ash, charcoal, etc.

These experiences act as starting points for your work. As the week unfolds, the schedule opens up into longer stretches of independent studio time, giving you the space to test ideas, refine your process, and translate those new impulses into more personal, intentional pieces.

Rather than step-by-step instruction, the days are centered around experimentation and self-directed creation. By the end of the week, you’ll leave with finished works, new material approaches, and greater clarity about your own abstract style.

Previous experience is recommended to get the most out of this week. The focus is on independent practice and evolving your own abstract voice.

Elderly Vietnamese woman in a conical hat and red cardigan sitting against a blue wall portrait
Evolving Your Abstract Voice 7-day program schedule — Day 1 through Day 7
Evolving Your Abstract Voice program schedule — mobile version

“I don’t do art for the masses. I do art to show my heart.”

“I don’t do art for the masses. I do art to show my heart.” •

- Ai Weiwei

workshop group sitting around a table in a brightly lit art studio at night

What’s Included in This Package:

✔ 6 nights / 7 days accommodation at The Interlude

✔ 3 guided art workshops, including all materials used during the sessions

✔ Canvas to take home (30cm x 50cm)

✔ Unlimited 24/7 access to the art studio, allowing time to work independently outside guided sessions

Guests practicing morning yoga in The Interlude's garden among lanterns and tropical plants

✔ Cultural & local experiences in Hoi An, woven naturally into the week:

  • Guided walk through Hoi An’s Ancient Town, observing color, texture, and architectural details

  • Visit local pottery village and experience traditional pottery making with local artisans

  • Trip to My Son Sanctuary exploring Champa history, temple forms, and weathered materials 

  • Guided walk through Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village, learning about traditional farming practices and the connection between land, food, and daily life

The Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau) in Hoi An's old town with visitors

✔ Vietnamese cuisine as part of daily life at the retreat

  • Daily shared Vietnamese meals prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients

  • A hands-on Vietnamese cooking class, learning to prepare traditional local dishes and explore the flavors and stories behind the cuisine

Artist painting a large abstract canvas at an easel in the studio at night with garden lanterns glowing

✔ 5 morning yoga sessions, suitable for all levels

✔ Specialty Vietnamese coffee workshop, learning to prepare a traditional local coffee and explore Vietnam’s coffee culture

✔ Free use of bicycles to explore Hoi An and the surrounding countryside

✔ Round-trip airport transfers between Da Nang Airport and The Interlude

Vietnamese Bun cha rice noodles and crispy spring rolls, served poolside

What’s Not Included in This Package:

Flights to and from Da Nang, visa fees, or travel insurance

Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional drinks, or laundry

Optional activities outside the program

Personal art supplies beyond those provided in workshops and the studio

Visitors at a Hoi An lantern-making workshop, laughing while crafting colorful silk lanterns
Ceramic bowls and organic materials arranged on a workshop table
Vietnamese Cau Lao dish with herbs on wooden table.
Pottery workshop at Thanh Ha village — two women shaping clay on a wheel surrounded by finished pots

What You’ll Leave With:

  • 1-2 completed abstract artworks

  • Experience working with organic and locally sourced materials

  • A clearer sense of your own evolving abstract voice

  • Fresh focus and momentum to continue developing your work

  • Meaningful connections with fellow creatives and lasting memories of Hoi An’s craft, culture, and food

Vietnamese drip coffee being served on a wooden tray with condensed milk — ca phe sua da

Choose Your Experience

All options include 6 nights accommodation. Book direct and save 15%.

Next retreat: 31 May - 6 Jun 2026 | 24 Jan - 30 Jan 2027 | 29 Aug - 4 Sep 2027

Solo Escape

A private retreat in your own room.

Twin


Double

$2,100

(-15%) $1,785

$2,200

(-15%) $1,870


Studio Duo

Come with a friend or partner.
Share a room, share the week.

Twin

Double

$3,150

*(-15%) $2,078


$3,300

*(-15%) $2,805


* Total price for both participants (2nd participant at 50% off base).

Travel Partner

For a companion exploring Hoi An on their own. Breakfast included.

Twin

Double

$250


$330