Mantra Wellness Bali, Pecatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Up to 7 in group
Oct 5 - 10, 2025
About this Retreat
Hi! I’m Janet. My two passions are sketching and surfing.
Over a decade ago, I studied finance in New York City and had a brief stint in investment banking. I then studied and worked in the field of urban and environmental planning. I moved to Honolulu, Hawaii in early 2016 in order to make surfing a bigger part of my life.
Similar to surfing, I feel that I was meant to create art. I love to capture the emotions of being in the ocean – the crash of waves, the calm of sea meeting sky. From the moment when paint first touches paper, I am focused, inspired, and invigorated to create. I am in flow.
I feel in flow when I teach as well, and consider it a blessing to pass on the gift and wonder of watercolor. You can see reviews of my workshops here: https://janetmeinkelau.com/reviews
My artwork is hung in homes across Hawaii, the Continental U.S.A., and internationally. I’ve also participated in several Hawaii Watercolor Society juried shows, and my artwork can be found at major retailers such as HomeGoods and Target.com.
Details of this retreat
Set in the lush, tropical beauty of Uluwatu, Bali, the 6 Day Cultivating Our Gifts: Watercolor & Surf Retreat offers a soul-nourishing journey of artistic expression, movement, and mindful reflection. This immersive experience brings together creativity and connection, inviting participants to deepen their artistic practice while enjoying the rhythm of ocean waves and the serenity of Balinese landscapes.
Over the course of six days, you'll engage in five thoughtfully designed painting workshops covering techniques such as drawing fundamentals, color theory, oceanscapes, florals, and urban sketching/plein air painting. Two of these sessions will take place outdoors—one at the beach and another at a local temple—offering the perfect opportunity to connect with the natural and cultural beauty of Bali.
The retreat also includes one surf lesson, complete with board rental, transport to the surf break, a low student-to-instructor ratio of 2:1, and personalized video analysis to help you refine your skills.
For those looking to spend more time in the water, additional two-hour sessions are available, tailored to both beginners and more advanced surfers seeking coaching. To complement the physical and creative work, two yoga classes are included, with more sessions available for booking onsite through the movement offerings at Mantra Wellness. Writing and reflection will be gently integrated through small group gatherings and prompts, thus participants are encouraged to bring a journal to explore personal insight alongside their creative journey.
You’ll stay in a private suite with a pool or garden view, each room featuring a comfortable double bed and tranquil surroundings ideal for rest and restoration. All breakfasts and two shared dinners are included in your stay, with delicious on-site lunch and dinner options available for purchase.
Local transportation for plein air painting sessions is provided, and airport transfers to and from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport will be arranged at designated times for your convenience. Guests also enjoy complimentary access to Mantra Wellness’s facilities, including a swimming pool, sauna, and ice bath. Additional offerings such as Pilates classes and massage services are available for those who wish to further unwind.
Whether you're here to refine your creative voice, explore new surf skills, or simply reconnect with yourself in a vibrant, supportive environment, this retreat offers a beautiful balance of structure and freedom in one of Bali’s most inspiring locations.