Realism in Paradise
Western Academic Figure Drawing Retreat in Thailand
Jan 4 - Jan 8, 2027
What to Expect
Imagine spending your mornings drawing from a live model under the guidance of a professional realist artist...
...and your evenings exploring vibrant markets, incredible food, ancient temples, and the rich culture of Thailand.
That's Realism in Paradise.
This unique five-day retreat brings together two experiences rarely found in the same place: serious academic figure drawing and one of the world's greatest travel destinations.
Chris Legaspi will teach the same atelier methods he learned from master artists in Los Angeles, knowledge with roots going all the way back thr to the great European academies.
Every day you'll draw from life, receive demonstrations, personalized critiques, and real-time over-the-shoulder guidance that accelerates learning in ways online instruction simply cannot.
By the end of the retreat, you'll not only create your strongest drawings yet, but you'll understand exactly how to continue improving for years to come.
Come for the art. Stay for the adventure. Leave with new skills, lifelong memories, and friendships from around the world.
✔️ Full Drawing Atelier Immersion
Work with a live model every day under the guidance of seasoned expert and feel the same L.A. Atelier classroom experience that delivers rapid growth and long term results.
✔️ Over-The-Shoulder Guidance
Speed up your learning curve like never before with direct and immediate feedback from Chris in real time!
✔️ Collaborative Energy
Connect and collaborate with fellow artist and travelers who share your passion and goals.
✔️ Fun & Vibrant Environment
Experience the best of Thai culture with warm hospitality, delicious Thai food, vibrant markets and beautiful temples and cultural sites.
Workshop Overview
Date & Time
Monday, Jan. 5 - Friday, Jan. 9, 2027
10:00 am - 5:00 pm daily
*Bonus Days
Saturday, Jan. 10 & Sunday, Jan. 11 (see below)
Cirriculum
The Roadmap to Progress and Fulfillment in Realistic Figure Drawing
A week designed to transform the way you see, think, and draw. Over five intensive days, we'll build the complete drawing process from the ground up, then put everything into practice with a live model.
Day 1 - Figure Sketching I
Master the basics and fix bad habits with fluid line work, dynamic gesture and elegant shape design
Day 2 - Figure Sketching II
Make figures come off the page with construction, perspective, position, and foreshortening.
Day 3 - Figure Sketching III
Create a realistic sketch finish with 3D form, light, shadow, shading techniques and sequence
Day 4 - Long Pose Drawing, Part 1
Break through comfort zones and apply everything you've learned with direct guidance as you work from a live model.
Day 5 - Long Pose Drawing, Part 2
Refine your new skills and draw your personal best with personalized, over-the-shoulder coaching and feedback.
Bonus Day 1 (Sat. Jan 10)*
Draw and practice the portrait with Chris in a 3-hour private session with a live model.
Bonus Day 2 (Sun. Jan 11)
Explore Bangkok with Chris and fellow classmates with relaxed day of sightseeing, field sketching, and spending time together.
How It Works-
Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round in all different locations and climates.
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Sign up and pay all required fees to reserve your spot. If plans change, you can cancel up to 14 days before the retreat start to receive a 50% refund.
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After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.
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We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from the event as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.
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Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.