Paint Your Vacation – An Illustrated Lifebook Workshop
Shannon Christensen, Artist · Author · Creativity Coach
Every trip tells a story—and this workshop turns that story into art. Paint Your Vacation: An Illustrated Lifebook Workshop invites you to create a one-of-a-kind illustrated journal page. Whether you’re working from favorite vacation photos or painting on a real-life travel adventure, your page will become part sketch, part keepsake, and completely your own story.
Class Format
Formula: What to collect before, during, and after a vacation
Format: Simple layouts for sketchbook storytelling
Watercolor: Tips, tricks, and demos to bring your scenes to life
Storytelling: Dates, quotes, and small details that make memories meaningful
No prior art experience is required—just bring a photo, a sketchbook, and a story.
Why This Class?
This isn’t just another watercolor class. It’s a creative, memory-rich experience that blends travel, art, and storytelling. Beginners will feel at ease, seasoned painters will find fresh inspiration, and everyone will leave with a meaningful piece of art. It’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with your memories, and bring them to life through brush and story. The result is part sketch, part souvenir, and wholly personal—a piece of art that captures the heart of your journey.
About the Instructor
Having lived abroad in Sweden, Montenegro, and Jordan—and traveled throughout Europe—I know the joy of capturing a journey before the details fade. Those experiences shaped my Illustrated Lifebook Method, which combines watercolor, sketching, and narrative into art that is both beautiful and personal. During that time abroad, I also authored Jump Start Your Creative Engine with the 8 Creative Power Habits, inspired by the cultural richness and creative perspective travel brings. As an artist, author, and creativity coach, I bring years of experience along with a deep love of travel and storytelling. My teaching style is encouraging, approachable, and designed to help every student see their story come alive on the page.
DETAILS:
- One-day workshop
- $100 (includes lunch)
Suggested Supply List:
Bound watercolor book: for finished pages, preferably 140 lb paper https://amzn.to/3Ved4nx
Watercolor paper to practice on: 140 lb paper https://amzn.to/3VGQyUr
Watercolors: Something like these https://amzn.to/469thkl https://amzn.to/47xePDI
Paint brushes: round, various sizes https://amzn.to/4pns0h6
Micron pens: Size 8 and/or 10 https://amzn.to/41NDJLL
Photos: vacation photos, printed out if you'd like, but not necessary if you can draw from your phone
Types of photos: See the Paint Your Vacation Formula PDF
Stories: As you go through your photos, collectibles, keepsakes, or souvenirs, write down your recollections, stories, and serendipity moments.
