Destination Workshop
OCTOBER 11-20, 2025
Discover Nepal
A Transformative Journey of Photography, Culture, and Mindfulness
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Nepal that seamlessly blends photography, culture, and mindfulness practice to heighten your creativity. This destination workshop explores stunning landscapes, immersing participants in rich cultural experiences and capturing transformative moments through the camera lens. The blend of exploration and mindfulness will engage you with the beauty of Nepal on multiple levels, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Program Highlights
Mindfulness in photography means being fully present in the moment as you capture images. Photographers tune into their environment and emotions, creating a stronger bond with the subject and the setting.
Photography Techniques and Creative Expression
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a newcomer, this adventurous workshop offers an incredible journey that enriches your creative expression and connection to new cultures and surroundings. From frenetic cities to tranquil mountain landscapes, the wide range of destinations offers the opportunity to build and grow your photography skills and techniques, transforming ordinary pictures into extraordinary ones through your creative vision. Guided by our seasoned instructors, you’ll engage in daily creative exercises and discussions seamlessly integrated into the travel experience. Bring any cameras you’d like, DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone, and join us for this unforgettable opportunity.
Personal Projects and Tailored Guidance
Instructors will tailor their approach to your skill level and experience, ensuring a supportive and comfortable environment throughout the trip. Participants will pursue individual photography projects and explore their unique artistic goals. Anderson Ranch Vice President of Artistic Affairs and Director of Photography Andrea Jenkins Wallace will lead one-on-one and group discussions and share her knowledge to elevate your photography techniques and gain new artistic perspectives.
Yoga and Breathwork
Enliven your retreat experience with optional yoga and breathwork sessions that nurture body and mind. Taught by instructor Charlotte Roennau, who offers unique insights with her blend of sports science, yoga, and mindfulness, these accessible practices include breath-synchronized movement, deep relaxation, and meditation to attune you to your senses and arrive in the present moment.
Mindfulness and Enhanced Creativity
During daily excursions, engage in optional guided mindfulness sessions to sharpen your focus and unlock your creative potential. Embrace the present moment to enrich your photography with depth and intention, forging a profound connection with your art and environment. Capture images that uniquely reflect your story by tuning into your surroundings and emotions, strengthening your bond with the subjects you photograph.
Cultural Immersion
Embrace the cultural intricacies of capturing images in a foreign country as you experience the art of photographing vibrant local communities and breathtaking landscapes. Engage in individual and group discussions, exchange creative ideas, savor traditional cuisine, and fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Nepal’s landscapes. This unique blend of cultural exploration and photography will expand your creative horizons and deepen your connection to the world around you.
Itinerary
Kathmandu
October 11-12 & 18-20, 2025
Begin and end your retreat in the “Land of Gods,” Kathmandu, a vibrant city surrounded by majestic mountains. Nestled within a valley framed by snow-capped Himalayas and lush terraced hills, Kathmandu is home to historic temples, sacred shrines, and traditional red-tiled houses. Capture the essence of the city’s rich culture and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
The workshop concludes with a stay at Nepal’s renowned Dwarika’s Hotel, where luxury meets heritage. Enjoy traditional Nepalese cuisine, rejuvenate with spa treatments, and relax in modern comforts—an ideal way to conclude your retreat with a perfect blend of culture and indulgence.
Pokhara
October 13-17, 2025
Fly to the picturesque city of Pokhara, famous for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Stay at three unique locations, each offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, including the iconic Machapuchare (Fishtail) Mountain. Use this serene environment to enhance your photography skills, deeply connecting with tranquil lakes and lush mountain landscapes.
What to Expect
Plan for a comprehensive itinerary that balances artistic and cultural activities.
Daily photography excursions will take you through diverse locations, focusing on landscape composition and cultural portraiture. These will be paired with optional yoga, breathwork, and meditation sessions to enhance focus, creativity, and physical well-being.
While all activities are optional, participants should be prepared to walk up to 2 miles daily and require a moderate level of physical fitness. For those who prefer a less physically demanding itinerary, driving arrangements are available instead of longer treks. Expect to spend multiple hours on foot in urban settings, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of traditional Nepalese cuisine and customs.
Faculty
Andrea Jenkins Wallace
Vice President of Artistic Affairs, Artistic Director of Photography and New Media
Andrea Jenkins Wallace earned her M.F.A. from the University of Colorado Boulder. Before joining the Ranch, she spent over a decade in academia, holding tenure-track positions at Lake Forest College and Willamette University. She is frequently invited to speak at colleges and universities, including the Pratt Institute, the University of Denver, and the University of South Florida. Wallace has also been a featured speaker at the Denver Art Museum and the Stonewall National Museum. She is a frequent guest faculty member in photography at Colorado College. Her documentary film “Rochell and Brian,” which explores teenage pregnancy, premiered at the New York International Independent Film Festival. She exhibits her work nationally and internationally, with numerous shows across the Americas, Europe, China, and the Middle East.
Charlotte Roennau
Charlotte Roennau, once celebrated as one of Denmark’s fastest women with aspirations for the Olympic track and field, transitioned into a career that blends sports science, yoga, and mindfulness. She dedicated a decade to fostering peaceful coexistence, social cohesion, and reconciliation in the former Yugoslavia and Afghanistan. Her work with Cross Cultures Project Association (CCPA) and Global Education through Sports (GES) utilized the core values of sports to unite children, families, communities, and cities in conflict zones, promoting respect for diversity, religion, culture, and gender.
After years of traveling, she returned to Denmark to pursue a career in sports politics, management, and consulting in culture and sports facilities. In the U.S., Charlotte used her extensive background in running, yoga, and mindfulness as the Director of Mindful Leadership and Guest Transformation at Run Wild Retreats & Wellness. She trained staff, developed a curriculum, and led mindful running retreats worldwide.
Learn More
Let’s Connect!
Please reach out to discuss this incredible opportunity. We are excited to talk through all of the trip details with you. Please contact Andrea Jenkins Wallace, Vice President of Artistic Affairs by phone or email to learn more.
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Discover Nepal
A New Destination Workshop