INKPLAY MASTERCLASS
a guided painting retreat
Join Mariken in the Wonderful World of Inks
Step into a week of creativity, exploration, and connection with ink as your guide. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning your journey, this retreat is designed for everyone. Ink is a magical, fluid medium that invites you to lose yourself in the process—intuitive, experimental, and endlessly surprising.
Over five days, we’ll dive into the possibilities of ink on paper. Through a step-by-step approach, you’ll discover how to harness the medium’s natural flow, while also learning techniques to shape and influence it. I’ll share my expertise and guide you through each stage, adapting the pace to suit your needs.
We’ll draw inspiration from the natural beauty of Chiaraluce, taking walks to observe the shapes, lines, and textures around us, and integrating these observations into our work. Starting on small watercolour paper to remove any inhibitions, you’ll gradually explore larger, more layered pieces as your confidence grows.
All materials are provided, and the week is flexibly structured to adapt to the group’s needs, with space for one-on-one sessions if desired. The goal? To enjoy the process, experiment freely, and leave with not only several artworks but also the tools and inspiration to continue your ink journey long after the retreat ends.
retreat program
All the information you need to know exactly what to expect from this retreat.
From 3:00pm arrival and check-in (no charges for earlier arrival)
6:00pm Exploring Chiaraluce property & Seaside
7:00 pm Dinner
08:00-09:00 Breakfast
warm-up excersizes
13:00-14:00 Lunch
14:30-17:00 Studio: exercizes, first techniques
18:00 Walk in Montefiore dell’Aso, followed by pizza & cocktails in this charming place
08:00-09:00 Breakfast
09:00-10:00 Seaside inspiration walk
10:00-12:30 Studio: work with inspiration
13:00-14:00 Lunch
14:00 – 17:00 Studio: continuation & guidance
17:30-18:30 Cooking workshop: tiramisu layers with the chef
19:00 Dinner (tiramisu tasting)
08:00-09:00 Breakfast
10:00-12:30 Studio: Further techniques
13:00-14:00 Lunch
14:30-16:00 Studio: continuation & guidance
17:00-19:00 Visit & wine tasting at a local winery
20:00 Dinner
08:00-09:00 Breakfast
09:30-12:30 Studio: intensive work
13:00-14:00 Lunch
15:00 – 17:00 Studio
17:30 – 18:30 Trip to Grottammare
19:30 Dinner
09:00-10:00. Breakfast
10:00-12:30 Studio: finishing & decisions
13:00-14:00 Lunch
14:30-17:00 Discussing our work and preparing for exhibition
18.00-23:00 Vernissage with local guests, apericena and live music
09:00-10:00 Breakfast 10:00-12:30
Check-out & departures
Mariken Van Heugten
Mariken’s artistic journey is as dynamic as the lines she creates with ink. Born in the Netherlands, her career initially unfolded in the world of international sales and logistics, spanning several countries. Yet, art was always a parallel passion, quietly evolving alongside her professional life.
A turning point came after an illness and a job loss — moments that, looking back, became a catalyst. She saw these challenges as a sign to embrace her creative calling. Now based in southern Germany with her family, Mariken has dedicated the past five years to art full-time, cultivating a distinctive style that celebrates the beauty of simplicity.
Her work is deeply inspired by the natural world: the delicate lines, shapes, and patterns that often go unnoticed. She finds wonder in the way these elements grow and interact, a reminder of the quiet resilience and harmony that exist even in a chaotic world. Through her art, Mariken invites viewers to pause, observe, and find comfort in the small, natural things that surround us.
Ink, with its fluidity and precision, is her medium of choice. Using both dip pen and brush, she captures the lightness and interconnectedness of nature, translating it into visual poetry. Mariken’s workshops — held in Germany, the US, and online—reflect her desire to share this perspective, encouraging others to see the world through a lens of curiosity and appreciation.
does it cost?
We offer different pricing options based on your needs.
€2400
€1900 per person sharing
€1700 per person sharing
they’ll receive a €250 discount on the room and can explore all the activities available for them.
What’s Included
- , 5 days abstract painting tuition led by Mariken Van Heugten
- Group work, community time, and one-to-one discussions
- 6 nights accomodation
- All meals with beverages
- Transfers from/to Pedaso train station or Ancona airport
- Excursions: Visits in the area as mentioned in the programme
- Local transfers: All necessary transfers are included for , excursions and programme-related visits during the retreat.
- Wine tasting at a local producer
What’s Not Included
- Transfers from/to the venue from other airport
- Airfares, visa and travel insurance
- A list of materials will be provided by the artist before the retreat in case something is not included
- Additional beverages outside meals
- Optional private sessions
- Personal expenses and souvenirs