8-15 November
Escape to the picturesque town of Wakkerstroom and its world renowned wetland for a unique retreat combining birdwatching and artistic expression.
Wakkerstroom is located within one of the southern hemisphere’s largest natural wetlands, surrounded by high altitude grasslands, a globally significant habitat which makes Wakkerstroom a prime destination for birdwatchers and bird artists alike.
South Africa has 13 unique bird species, and you can spot nine of them in and around Wakkerstroom!
The large wetland on the north-western side of Wakkerstroom straddles an area of approximately 700ha. This is the 2nd largest reed-marsh in South Africa and supports a diverse wetland fauna. A typical stroll through the wetland can produce up to 70 species of birds in a morning and a day spent exploring further out into the surrounding grasslands could result in 110 species (including some special endemics), in the company of a local bird guide.
Where will we stay:
- The fabulous 4 Star Dekotzenhof Guesthouse – Relax in comfort and enjoy delicious meals prepared by Mark, a Cordon Blue Chef!
What You’ll Learn:
- • Pen and Ink Drawing: Capture the essence of our feathered friends using Micron pens & dipping Pens and Nibs.
- • Watercolour Painting: Bring your birds to life with vibrant colours using professional Daniel Smith Fine Watercolours.
- • Drypoint Etching: Discover this unique technique to create stunning fine prints using Plexiglass and Akua Ink.
- • Technique Fusion: Combine all your skills for dynamic artworks!
So bring your Camera, I’ll supply all the Art Materials, and come and enjoy the company of likeminded bird watchers & birders!
Spaces are limited to 10! Reserve your spot today and let your creativity soar!
Program
Day 1
2pm – 5pm Arrive at the 4 Star DeKotzenhof Guest House
Optional: Take a short drive to a nearby bird hide to start your birding adventure!
6.30pm – Dinner at DeKotzenhof Guest House & Introductions
Day 2
6.30am – We will go out with one of the local bird guides who will show us all the special spots to find all those birds that we will be drawing! A packed breakfast will be provided on the road.
12 – Lunch
1 – 4pm – Learn how to apply Pen & Ink techniques to illustrate birds and their surroundings.
6.30pm – Dinner at Thyme Out Restaurant – for own account
Day 3
7am Breakfast at DeKotzenhof
8.30 am – We’ll head out for a drive to the stunning Zaaihoek Dam, where we’ll find a beautiful spot to sit and using Daniel Smith Fine Watercolours, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to mix the perfect colours to depict the birds and their surroundings.
Optional: Take a short drive to a bird hide
6.30pm – Dinner at DeKotzenhof
Day 4
6.30am – We will take a drive out along one of the dirt roads which is surrounded mostly by pastoral farmland, where we are likely to see many species of birds.
A Packed Breakfast will be provided on the road.
1- 4.30pm – Using the photos you have taken or other reference photos, you will combine your Pen & Ink & Watercolours to illustrate the birds you have seen.
6.30pm – Dinner at DeKotzenhof
Day 5
8am – Breakfast at DeKotzenhof
9.30 – Today, you’ll discover the thrilling technique of drypoint etching on Plexiglass to depict your birds. We’ll be using my press and Akua Ink to bring your artworks to life through printing.
Optional: Take a short drive to a bird hide
6.30pm – Dinner at DeKotzenhof
Day 6
6.30am – Optional : early morning drive to do bird watching
8am – Breakfast at DeKotzenhof
9.30 – Using your new found skills and you will now learn how combine your drypoint etchings and watercolours to create unique artworks!
3pm – We will visit artist Bongi at his home, a remarkable young man who has brought the joy of art to his local community and found a way to uplift the community. He will create T-Shirt for you, with a bird or anything you would like painted!
6.30pm – Dinner at DeKotzenhof
Day 7
6.30am – Optional : early morning drive to do bird watching
8.30am – Breakfast at DeKotzenhof
10am – Finishing off of artworks and a time of reflection where we will discuss the artworks of each participant and celebrate each persons unique creations.
6.30pm – Dinner at Red Rooster Restaurant – for own account
Day 8
8am – Breakfast and say our goodbyes
Cost
Single – R18950.00
Sharing – R16120.00
Non Participant Sharing Only – R8200
Includes:
4 Star Accommodation at DeKotzenhof Guest House – 0nly 5 rooms
All Breakfasts and 5 off 3 course Dinners prepared by Cordon Bleu Chef Mark at the DeKotzenhof Guesthouse
6 days Tuition
Bird Guide for Morning of Day 1
Materials:
Bespoke Handmade Leather Journal
Daniel Smith Watercolours
Watercolour Travel Tin
3 Micron Pens
2 Watercolour Brushes
Watercolour Paper
Pencil & Eraser
Dipping Pen & Nib
Plexiglass for Etching
Paper for printing
Use of etching tools and printing press
Use of computer & printer to print your photos
Excludes:
Travel costs, Lunches, 2 dinners at the Restaurants, drinks and gratuities.
Accommodation will also be available next door to DeKotzenhof at the same price
This allows for 7 Singles or 5 singles & 4 Sharing
Cancellation Policy for DeKotzenhof Guest House
Cancellations received 31-60 days before check in date will be charged 50% of total booking
Cancellations received 15-30 days before check in date will be charged 75% of total booking
Cancellations received less than 14 days before check in date will be charged 100% of total booking
All refunds subject to a R50 admin fee
Cancellation policy for Wakkerstroom Birding Art Retreat
60 days to 31 days before start of retreat Forfeit R3000 plus the applicable deposits on accommodation (check cancellation policies above) unless I can find someone to take your place.
30 days before start of retreat. Forfeit 50% of Package & deposits on accommodation (check cancellation policies above) unless I can find someone to take your place.
14 days or less before start of retreat – Forfeit 100% of Package and accommodation unless I can find someone to take your place
How To Book your Place
Deposit of R2000 to secure your place
R5000 – 1 August 2025
R5000 – 1st September 2025
1st October – Balance of Package
Contact Sharon Kuisis on Whatsapp 0763530330
courses@sharonkuisis.com
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