Creative Vacation in Austria
Painting Amid the Pitztal Mountains
The landscape around Mandarfen offers inspiration in every direction: striking peaks, glaciers, mountain lakes, alpine pastures, and ever-changing light. For years, the Alpinhotel Zirbenhof has been a gathering place for painting classes and creative groups looking to combine nature experiences, focused work, and shared vacation time.
Upcoming Painting Classes at the Zirbenhof
In the future, painting classes will once again be held at the Zirbenhof, nestled among the mountains of the Pitztal Valley. No specific dates have been set yet. We’d be happy to add you to our list of interested participants—with no obligation. As soon as a new class is confirmed, including the dates and instructor, we’ll let you know all the details.
A Look Back - Artistic Encounters at the Zirbenhof
In recent years, the program has featured watercolor and creative art classes taught by Marc Folly, Alfred Darda, and Bernhard Vogel, among others. These retrospectives showcase the diversity of techniques and the special connection between artistic work and the Alpine landscape.
Watercolor Painting Class with Marc Folly
- August 4–29, 2025 Course dates: August 25, 26, 27, and 28, 2025
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In my workshop, we explore contrasts and the tonal range from black to white across the entire spectrum of colored grays. Because shadow implies light and emphasizes the composition of the painting, it gives it power. Color vibrates through, interweaves with, or overlays these areas of contrast. Using photographic images, my instruction is a step-by-step process of development, featuring many tips and demonstrations of my watercolor techniques.
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In my workshop, we’ll explore the contrasts and the range of values from black to white, encompassing the entire spectrum of colored grays. Because shadows imply light and emphasize the composition of the painting, they lend it strength. Color vibrates, intermingles, or overlays these areas of contrast. Using photographic images, my teaching follows a step-by-step approach, complete with many tips and demonstrations of my watercolor techniques.
Creative Workshop with Alfred Darda
- July 6–12, 2025 Course days: July 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, 2025
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Dialogue with the Elements of Nature
We cannot create nature, nor can we imitate it, but we can allow it to emerge on our canvas through elementary processes involving water, air, fire, earth, and colors.
Unusual formations emerge through a wide variety of techniques that are not feasible. This can give rise to a dialogue that challenges us to act as partners. First comes a sense of wonder, followed by sensing, questioning, and tuning in.
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We will come to realize that we are one with nature, since we, too, are nature. Through dialogue, we enrich the situation with creative elements and contribute our own input, giving rise to a new, unique, and multifaceted whole. Above all, combining the various parts (fragments) produces truly surprising effects that cannot be planned in advance.
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It is the unique qualities of things that reveal themselves in ways other than what our ego intends. It’s good that we already have a lot of experience with painting; sharing knowledge is what makes a collaborative group. Our times call for a deeper engagement with nature. It’s going to be exciting. I’m looking forward to our adventures!
Watercolor Mountain Scenes with Bernhard Vogel
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Summer in the Pitztal Valley reveals a mountain landscape in all its splendor and drama. The scenes are so varied and exciting that Bernhard Vogel stops here every year.
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The Hotel Zirbenhof is ideally located, right next to the cable cars leading to the glacier regions, mountain lakes, and alpine pastures of the Pitztal Valley. We’ll also find wonderful subjects right here in the valley and capture them in contemporary watercolors. Unforgettable painting experiences are guaranteed.
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In Regem, we have a suitable studio at our disposal.
Your Own Painting Trip or Creative Workshop in the Pitztal Valley
Do you teach a painting class, organize a creative trip, or are you looking for accommodations for your group?
Please let us know your preferred date, group size, the space you need, and your catering preferences. Together, we’ll discuss the options for your stay.