Encaustic Camp at LEVEL Retreat

Weekend Art Camp with Jamie McPhail and Marie Rosettie October 16-18, 2026

Join Us! this fall for an immersive weekend of focused encaustic instruction, hours and hours of painting, communal meals and the comradery that comes with creating in community!  Hosted by Jamie McPhail and Marie Rossettie at LEVEL Retreat, a 16 acre artist residency and retreat space in Chapel Hill, N.C. More than a workshop, Encaustic Camp is inspired by the spirit of summer camp—just for grown-ups.

The ancient art of encaustic involves painting with molten beeswax mixed with damar resin and pigment. The workshops will involve structured studio sessions, demonstrations, technical skill building and experimentation. In this immersive retreat experience participants will share communal meals, engage in creative discussions and develop their work in a supportive environment. 

We are excited to welcome encaustic artists of all experience levels. The weekend is designed to feel like a grown up summer camp, with more beeswax and less rushing around. Set on LEVEL’s 16 acre working farm in Chapel Hill, Encaustic Camp provides a perfect setting to slow down, experiment, and connect with other creative people.

Through a series of structured studio sessions, participants will learn foundational and intermediate encaustic techniques while exploring ways to incorporate the medium into their existing artistic practices. Workshops will encourage experimentation, technical skill-building, and creative risk-taking, providing artists with both practical knowledge and renewed inspiration. Participants will also share meals and conversations, enjoy time outdoors, and become part of a small, supportive, creative community.

You do not need to take Friday off from work. Camp begins Friday evening, with arrivals between 5–7 PM so guests can settle into their accommodations before gathering for dinner and our opening evening together. Saturday will be our full creative day, featuring encaustic workshops, shared meals, time to explore the property, and an evening adventure into Chapel Hill/Carrboro. We'll wrap up Sunday with a final morning workshop, a closing conversation, and plenty of time to transition back into the week ahead.

The total cost for the Encaustic Camp is $750 per participant, all inclusive (art supplies, meals, accommodations). Please register by clicking the link below; we'll confirm your reservation and method for deposit payment soon. Your responses will help us match you with the best camp accommodations, plan meals that meet your dietary needs, and make sure we can create a comfortable and welcoming experience for everyone. Space is limited, and registrations will be accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Schedule at a Glance

Friday, 10/16

  • check in between 5-7pm

  • Welcome dinner and introductions

  • Encaustic inspiration slideshow and discussion

  • Optional s’mores by the firepit

Saturday, 10/17

  • Breakfast available 8-9am

  • Morning encaustic workshop in the barn studio

  • Shared lunch and time to explore LEVEL

  • Afternoon encaustic workshop with breaks and refreashments

  • Dinner at Med Deli and optional Chapel Hill/ Carrboro scavenger hunt

Sunday, 10/18

  • Breakfast available 8-9am

  • Final encaustic workshop session

  • Closing lunch and group reflection

  • Optional studio time until 5pm


Made possible with grants from: