Find creative inspiration on Maine’s stunningly beautiful rocky coast, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and rhythms of life on an island. This program brings together people at all artistic levels who share an enthusiasm for nature and who wish to draw and paint with more ease indoors and out. We invite you to join us as we learn, explore, and grow in a fun and supportive environment.  

During the week participants can choose drawing and watercolor painting sessions geared for beginners or more advanced skill levels. We’ll put those skills to work in the field as we explore Hog Island’s bird life, spruce forests, tide pools, and striking vistas. There will also be longer blocks of time to explore and sketch on your own using the island and its many resources for inspiration, as well as opportunities to explore alternative media like printmaking. A highlight of this trip is a boat trip (weather permitting) to Eastern Egg Rock to see the Atlantic Puffin and tern colony followed by a visit to Allen Island, a former residence of the famous Wyeth family.

Our instructional team includes some of the country’s best wildlife artists and field sketchers, as well as experts in the natural history of coastal Maine. 

Note, this session has the great privilege of sharing Hog Island with a teen art camp. While the camp programming largely will be separate, there will be some opportunities of overlap with the young artists and teen camp instructors.

Portable field sketching supplies are recommended.  See the Materials Supply List (forthcoming) for details.

Pricing: $1,625

The base registration fee includes meals, housing, instruction, and all field trips. This price is based on a standard shared room (with 2 twin beds) a shared bathroom. A limited number of upgraded accommodations are available for an additional cost. Two upgrade options are a single room for solo travelers or a room with a private bath for two people traveling together. There are no single rooms with private bathrooms available. Please see our lodging page for more information. 

Participants must arrange their own transportation to and from the Audubon dock in Bremen at the start and end of the session. Please see our transportation page for more information.  

There are several scholarship opportunities available to help participants attend Hog Island sessions! Please see our scholarships page for more information about Hog Island Scholarships. You should also check with your local Audubon chapter or bird club for additional opportunities. 

Requirements: There are no prerequisites for this program! Artists of all skill levels are welcome.  

Director: Sherrie York

Instructors: Kelly Radding, Sean Murtha, Jim Rataczak

NOTE: Audubon reserves the right to alter itineraries, instructors and particular arrangements, or to substitute similar itineraries or arrangements, at no penalty. If Audubon cancels a session, it will issue full refunds of all deposits or payments to the paid participants.

Testimonials:

“Fantastic staff – all very interesting and adding different perspectives and skill sets.” - 2025 Camper

“Instructors and staff are excellent. So supportive and I learned a ton. They are always looking for ways to help the guests.” - 2025 Camper

“This was such a special experience and I really hope I can come back again soon.” - 2025 Camper

“Everyone was lovely! You all did such a great job of creating an atmosphere of community and acceptance.” - 2025 Camper

“Spectacular experience; loved spending a week in the company of nature lovers and artists.” - 2025 Camper

“Don’t be afraid to come to Arts & Nature if you are a novice artist! They meet you where you are and you will be in supportive and inspiring company.” - 2025 Camper

“This was the best trip I’ve ever taken. Amazing.” - 2025 Camper

“There is still magic at camp even for us old kids.” - 2025 Camper