Brushstrokes of Happiness: A Golden Retriever Focused Painting Retreat 8/25-8/27

A Three-Day Workshop with Award-Winning Artist James Swanson

August 25 - 27, 2026

At Golden Dog Farm, we’ve always believed that happiness is golden — and what could be happier than a pond full of splashing Golden Retrievers? When we discovered James Swanson’s breathtaking oil paintings of Goldens in water, we knew we had to invite him here to let art imitate our “happy’s” life.

Join us for three unforgettable days painting, playing, and finding your own version of golden happiness — right at the source.

Meet Your Instructor

James Swanson is an award-winning artist celebrated for his extraordinary ability to capture the joy, motion, and spirit of Golden Retrievers in water. At Golden Dog Farm, he’ll be right at home — and so will you.

Your Three Days at the Farm

This isn’t just a painting workshop. It’s a full immersion in everything Golden Dog Farm has to offer.

Alongside daily instruction from James, your days will be filled by the world-famous Golden Retriever Experience, a Bee Experience, a Farm Tour (including how maple syrup is made), and of course, a Wine Tasting. Our resident Goldens — a genuinely happy bunch — will serve as your live models, whether they’re leaping into the pond, wrestling in the grass, or basking in the afternoon sun. And of course, the full happy of Butternut Goldens will be here to model during the Golden Retriever Experience.

Because working with live dogs means embracing a little beautiful chaos, quick sketches are highly encouraged. Gouache is ideal for fast, energetic studies, and supplies will be on hand for everyone to try. You’ll also spend time collecting reference photographs — especially at the pond, where the dogs love to swim — building a rich library of material to fuel paintings both during the workshop and long after you’ve gone home.

A more detailed itinerary will be sent to you after booking. 

The Studio Space & Materials

The Ira Allen barn (c. 1770) at Golden Dog Farm will serve as your primary workspace — a fitting spot to paint the adorable pups who give this stunning location its name.

Please bring:

•       A plein air easel (lightweight recommended)

•       Brushes and canvases

•       Your preferred oil painting supplies

Oils and gouache will be available at the farm, but as this is our very first art workshop, participants are responsible for bringing their own core materials.

Lodging & Meals & Transportation

Attendees are responsible for their own transportation and accommodations, and we recommend Sterling Ridge Cabin Resort, a short drive from the farm. A light breakfast and box lunch will be provided each day at Golden Dog Farm and refreshments will be available throughout. Dinners are on your own — there are great options nearby in Jeffersonville and in Stowe – about a 20-minute drive away. 

Reservations & Cancellation Policy

Space is limited to 12 participants.

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your space, with full payment due 60 days before (7/1/26) the workshop begins. 

A few important notes:

•       We will monitor attendance and confirm whether the workshop will run at least 30 days prior to the start date — please plan your travel accordingly.

•       In the unlikely event of cancellation due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances, Golden Dog Farm will issue a full 100% refund.