You’re Invited to Courage on Canvas
Unleash Your Creative Potential!
Held at the Little Golden Fox in charming Madison, Indiana
September 2 – 7, 2026
Feeling stuck? Recharge your creativity, reignite your passion, and reconnect with your purpose!
Have you been feeling…
- Drained and unable to create?
- Trapped in a routine?
- Caught in a cycle of overwhelm?
Awaken your imagination at the Courage on Canvas artist retreat! Five days of creating, connecting, and growth will build a purpose-driven momentum that you will take home with you.
“I arrived feeling lost. I left feeling like my sparkle was blazing like a firecracker.”
Courage on Canvas – Artist Retreat 2026
Each day of the retreat features creative mindfulness exercises led by host Dionne Woods and artist and educator Kelly Wiler that will help you reclaim your power and feel empowered to take action in your life. The best part? You won’t be doing it alone because this inspiring retreat builds powerful connections with other artists that will last a lifetime.
Event & Experiences
Hosted by artist and creative coach Dionne Woods, Courage on Canvas will take place September 2-7th, 2026 at the newly renovated Little Golden Fox in charming Madison, Indiana. The wonderful Kelly Wiler will join us for five days of mindset, creativity, inspiration, connection, friendship, and COURAGE!
Your hosts will lead you through creative mindset exercises that will have you lowering your walls and picking up a paintbrush to connect with your art and others!
Your creative experiences will include:
- Canvas painting
- Wearable art
- Watercolor art
- Art Journaling
- Art Gallery Show – learn the process to set up for an art gallery, sell your art and make up the cost of your ticket!
Meet Your Hosts
Dionne Woods
Dionne Woods of The Turquoise Iris is an artist, creative coach, podcast host, and BloomTV expert known for her vibrant and expressive style. Located in Oklahoma City, she is also the founder of The Turquoise Iris Magazine, a platform for artists and creatives to share their work and experiences. Through her mentorship groups, one-on-one coaching, and magazine, Dionne helps others tap into their creativity and find their unique voice through art.
Kelly Wiler
Kelly Wiler is an artist, educator, and the owner of Girl UPcycled Studio in Zanesville, Ohio. In addition to her in-studio classes, Kelly also teaches students from around the globe in her monthly membership group. Before opening her studio, Kelly worked for nearly 25 years supporting corporate companies in a variety of artistic roles around commercial window painting, decorating, event sites, and more.
Our past attendees shared their thoughts on Courage on Canvas – here is what they said!
Deep emotional transformation
Attendees shared that they found clarity, healing, joy, and a renewed sense of creativity. Many said they finally felt seen and supported in a way they didn’t expect.
Confidence and creative breakthroughs
Several women arrived unsure about painting, or unsure about themselves, and left feeling braver, more confident, and excited to keep creating.
A community that feels like belonging
Our participants talked about instant connection, supportive conversations, and friendships that they know will last long after the retreat ends.
More than just an art retreat
Over and over, people described this as soul care. Yes, they painted, but they also rested, reflected, and reconnected with themselves.
Thoughtful hosting and a nurturing environment
Guests mentioned how cared for they felt, through encouragement, guidance, and the small details that helped them feel comfortable, safe, and welcomed.
A retreat that keeps getting better
Returning attendees said this wasn’t their first Courage on Canvas, and it won’t be their last. They left feeling inspired, refreshed, and ready to come back again next year!
Tickets
Tickets include access to the retreat, supplies, and some meals. Tickets are now available and are $1800 (with payment options in checkout).
Awaken Your Authentic Self
One of the reasons that so many creatives experience burnout is because we are trying to do it ALL… alone. If you’ve hit a wall then that’s a sure sign it’s time for you to join a choir of creativity and reconnect with the passion you once felt for creating! This retreat is all about building powerful relationships — with ourselves, our art, and each other — so that we feel empowered and brave enough to carry it all home with us.
It’s time to stop second-guessing your path and rediscover your purpose! During our time together, you’ll learn how to…
- Believe in new possibilities
- Recharge your creative batteries
- Rediscover what makes you, you
- Kick imposter syndrome to the curb
- Unapologetically pursue joy
- Connect deeply with other creatives
Testimonials
So, you should probably keep scrolling if you don’t want to hear again about how life changing Courage on Canvas retreat in Galveston was for me this past April, but then you would miss my newest plot twist. I poured my whole self into the retreat, and with an epiphany or two, I decided to make some major changes. In Galveston, I remembered our souls are born free, and I am free, but that sometimes I forget. I think we all do. I remembered that the world is huge, with infinite possibilities waiting out there, waiting for me to notice. Carpe Diem all the way, baby… I don’t know where it’s going, I just know I feel FREE!
The best part about the retreats (besides the art one creates) are the friendships that one makes. We didn’t know each other but we left the retreat like we had known each other for years. You won’t find that kind of friendship and support anywhere else. I absolutely LOVED meeting these beautiful, creative, funny artists. We made some really great connections with everyone. The camaraderie, the sisterhood that develops is like no other. Don’t hesitate to do this for yourself. You won’t regret it and will be inspired and encouraged to step out of your shell to become a better artist, if not a better person.
Do not doubt just how much you NEED this!!! As long as you remain open and allow yourself to embrace the lessons provided, you will come away with a fresh understanding of what you are truly capable of.
It was really special for everyone who attended. We are all at different places yet able to relate to one another, giving and receiving encouragement. Loving and lifting each other in the sweetest environment. Dionne and her team bring so much goodness to the table that you will leave with more than you came with guaranteed. More skill, more courage, more love in your precious little heart. It’s just really something you have to experience to get so don’t deprive yourself of some well-deserved YOU time. YOU are better for everyone when you allow your cup to be filled!
Great memories! Everyone was so friendly, supportive, and just all-around happy to be together! Great vibes all around! Dionne was an absolute wonderful teacher and leader who can get to the heart of being a creative. Kelly is the sweetest soul, a beautiful heart and is a wonderful artist, teacher, and presence! I highly recommend it!
This trip to Galveston was a retreat indeed for me! I had such an amazing time just being there. What I took home with me was priceless. If anyone is thinking about going but is still hesitant, then my suggestion is to make it happen! With an open heart and mind and you won’t regret it.
My mindset changed after the retreat! I went from feeling alone and overwhelmed to being a part of a community and friends with support and encouraging love!
If you’re on the fence, scared or just not sure an art retreat is for you… I’ve attended all of Dionne’s retreats and a workshop at Kelly’s space in Ohio, along with many other spiritual/personal growth retreats, so I can promise you that this is an experience like no other! This retreat taught me so much about myself, my hesitations, my gifts and my creativity. I’ve been lucky enough to create amazing friendships and getting to reconnect with them at each retreat has added joy to my life that’s hard to explain. Give yourself the chance and the gift to learn from Dionne and Kelly and from all of the other women. It’s worth every moment, every penny, every fear, every new friendship and every discovery that you will come away with.
I highly recommend this retreat for new artists or longtime creatives. It will ignite a flame in you. You will be surrounded by so many people with understanding of what you do. It’s a love-of-creatives-fest! Even for new to canvas painters like me. There are so many different personalities to learn from… We even did a hair and beauty time!
Count me in!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the cost of my ticket cover?
Your ticket includes all of the retreat events. Accommodations are separate and there are many AirBnB’s within walking distance of the Little Golden Fox.
Where should I stay?
There are many AirBnB’s available within walking distance. More details and direct links will be given to guests. We will assist in your search.
I’m flying in - Where are the closest airports?
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is located 1 hour and 51 minutes northwest of Madison, IN.
Louisville International Airport (SDF) is located 1 hour and 7 minutes southwest of Madison, IN.
Cincinnati/Northern KY International Airport (CVG) is located 1 hour and 11 minutes northeast of Madison, IN.
Please tell me more about the area!
Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Madison, Indiana, is a picturesque small town brimming with charm and inspiration for artists of all kinds. Its historic downtown, adorned with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, offers endless opportunities for sketching, painting, or simply soaking in the scenery. Stroll along Main Street to discover quaint boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes, or wander to the Lanier Mansion and its stunning gardens for a dose of history and natural beauty. For those seeking a bit of adventure, nearby Clifty Falls State Park provides breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and wooded trails perfect for nature-inspired creativity. Whether you’re capturing the golden glow of the riverfront at sunset or finding inspiration in the vibrant local culture, Madison is a haven for artistic exploration and connection.
After I purchase my ticket, how will I get information, like the itinerary, attendees, and updates?
You will receive an email right away with information, including a link to our private Facebook group for Courage on Canvas 2025.
What kind of food will be available?
Included meals are a light breakfast daily, lunch daily, and dinner for the first evening. Drinks will be readily available throughout the retreat. Please email any special dietary needs to Di****@**************is.com
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely! Please arrange for your friend to purchase a ticket (or buy one for them!) and let us know when you register. Please let us know if you prefer to room together or separately.
What do I wear to an art retreat?
Please wear what you are comfortable in while painting. Bring an apron with you, too.
Are refunds available?
Due to limited availability, all purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.
© The Turquoise Iris
