Gathering your information outdoors and once-in-a-lifetime experiences to incredible places around the world full of companionship and making memories are what encompass an AOP Adventure. Join us for our first-ever AOP Adventure at one of the Nature Conservancy's most highly regarded properties in Colorado: Zapata Ranch. Spend 2 full days painting in the field, revel in discussions, evening social gatherings, bonfires, and camaraderie all centered around art and the landscape. The incredible location, food, and lodging top off this not-to-be missed experience.
Non-painting guests are welcome to join. While you’re involved in the workshop, your spouse or friend can enjoy ranch activities; itinerary is on their own.
Location
Zapata Ranch Colorado
Date & Time
October 23 - 26, 2022 Options to stay longer*
COST $2400 single occupancy** $2000 double occupancy**
About and Location
Zapata Ranch is a 103,000-acre working ranch owned by The Nature Conservancy and managed by Ranchlands in a partnership model that emphasizes environmental conservation practices. Located on the eastern edge of the San Luis Valley of southern Colorado, the ranch borders the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, the newest national park in the United States.
Guests of Zapata fly into Denver (~4 hours north), Colorado Springs (~3 hours north), or Albuquerque (~4 hours south) and rent a car and drive to the Ranch. Some guests are able to get a connecting flight into Alamosa (~40 minutes away). Alamosa is the only airport the Ranch offers a shuttle services to and from for $50 each way (not available on Sundays). Check-in is from 2-5pm on October 23; please note driving times from your selected airport to make plans accordingly to check-in time.
If anyone wishes, we will put together a private group page on the AOP Community site so adventurers can discuss carpooling.
airports
Denver (~4 hours north)
Colorado Springs (~3 hours north)
Albuquerque (~4 hours south)
Schedule
*Please note: We will be using vehicles to drive to our locations each day. If you are interested in staying a few days afterwards to participate in ranching activities and horseback riding, the Ranch is offering special pricing for workshop attendees. To extend your trip and receive this offer, please contact Ranchlands/Zapata ranch directly at [email protected] and mention that you are coming for the Scott Christensen workshop.
October 23, 2022
2:00 pm
Check-In Opens
Check in anytime between 2-5pm on Sunday. Take time to settle in and get refreshed for the adventure ahead.
5:00 Pm
Welcome and Introductions
6:00 pm
Dinner
7:00 pm
Field Preparation Discussion/Presentation
October 24 & 25, 2022
7:00 am
Coffee and Tea Available
8:00 am
Breakfast
9:00 Am
Field Painting, New Location
12:00 pm
Lunch in the Field
1:00 pm
Field Painting, New Location
6:00 pm
Dinner
7:00 pm
Evening Gathering
October 26, 2022
7:00 am
Coffee and Tea Available
8:00 am
Breakfast
9:00 Am
Final Gathering
10:00 Am
Farewell and Checkout
Extend Your Adventure
If you are interested in staying a few days afterwards to participate in ranching activities and horseback riding, the Ranch is offering special pricing for workshop attendees. To extend your adventure and receive this offer, please contact Ranchlands/Zapata ranch directly at [email protected] and mention that you are coming for the Scott Christensen workshop.
The lodge is built on the original Zapata homestead dating back to the late 1800's. All facilities were recently renovated and are surrounded by extensive grounds. The lodge features 15 rooms between three buildings connected by a lighted walking path. Each private room is equipped with either two double beds or a single king. Private baths with each room.
The dining experience at the Zapata is second-to-none. Using local produce and meats, including bison from the ranch’s herd, our chefs craft an unforgettable and uncommon take on traditional comfort foods with a modern twist. With dishes like bison tenderloin, wild caught trout from the Arkansas River just a few miles away, and herb roasted carrots from local farmers cooked over wood grown on the property, our kitchen provides a more organic encounter to cuisine seldom displayed elsewhere. Enjoy made-to-order breakfasts of pancakes, fresh fruit, bacon, fig and cheese toast, and frittatas, and bagged lunches to enjoy in the field.
Coffee and tea service is available in the morning starting at 7am. Breakfast is served at 8am and dinner is at 6 pm. A glass of wine is served with appetizers and further alcohol is self-supplied.
Chefs are happy to accommodate any special dietary requirements. Meals are served outdoors at the Lodge on the deck and lawn. Our party will have our own private table and plated meals. Blankets and heat lamps are provided for extra comfort during the outdoor dining experience.
Investment and policies
single occupancy
$2400 includes all meals, lodging, and instruction
Double occupancy
$2000 includes all meals, lodging, and instruction
We have 5 king and 4 double rooms available. If you select double-occupancy, please note the person with whom you will be sharing a room at check-out. Please contact us if we are sold out of the option you want. Non-painting guests are welcome; lodging and meals only.
*Please note: 11.9% sales tax and 10-15% ranch staff gratuities are included in the final check out price. Final totals are as follows: Single King is $2900, Shared Double is $2500, non-painting guests are $1900.
CANCELLATION POLICY: If cancelled 60 days or more from arrival date, 50% of payment is retained. If cancelled 30-60 days from arrival date, 75% of deposit is retained. If cancelled 30 days or less, 100% of payment in retained. All cancellations must be sent in writing to Adventure of Painting at [email protected]. Extenuating circumstances must also be put in writing and will be discussed on a case-by-case basis.