Schoodic Institute

Meet the Author: Alexandra S. D. Hinrichs
2024-07-13 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Rockefeller Hall, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National park, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Bring your family and friends to the Welcome Center at Rockefeller Hall (on the Schoodic Institute campus) on July 13th to meet Maine author Alexandra S. D. Hinrichs! Chat with Alexandra, purchase books, and get them signed!
Alexandra S. D. Hinrichs is the author of The Lobster Lady, I Am Made of Mountains, The Pocket Book, The Traveling Camera, and Thérèse Makes a Tapestry. Her books have won awards including Maine’s Lupine Award and Wisconsin’s Outstanding Achievement Award. They have also been featured on news outlets such as CBS News and The Washington Post. Before becoming a full-time author, Alex worked as a librarian in school, public, and academic libraries. She was also a historical researcher at American Girl. She lives in Bangor, Maine with her husband, three wild sons, and two tame cats.
Alexandra S. D. Hinrichs photo

Sea & Sky at Acadia National Park with Carol Douglas
2024-08-04 - 2024-08-09 | Schoodic Institute, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Spend a week at inspirational Schoodic Institute in Acadia National Park! Far from the hustle and bustle of Bar Harbor, Schoodic Peninsula has dramatic rock formations, windblown pines, pounding surf and stunning mountain views that draw visitors from around the world.
You might look up from your easel to see dolphins, humpback whales or seals cavorting in the waves. Herring gulls visit while eiders and cormorants splash about.
A day trip to the harbor at Corea, ME is included. Far off the beaten path, Corea, ME is a village of small frame houses, fishing piers and lobster traps. Its working fleet bustles in and out of the harbor.
Concentrate on painting
Meals and accommodations at the beautiful Schoodic Institute are included in your fee. That includes a lobster boil by a real Corea fisherman. We’re right on Schoodic Point so we have unrivalled (and permitted) access to the park.
All mediums welcome
This workshop is aimed at helping painters refine their personal technique in watercolor, pastel, oils and acrylics. It will help you find your own voice and style, without becoming anyone’s clone. This is an intensive class, with morning and afternoon on-site painting sessions and lunch-time demos. Classes are kept small so every student gets the attention they deserve.
Carol Douglas has 20 years’ experience teaching students of all levels in watercolor, oils, acrylics and pastels. Her Acadia workshops are very popular. “This was the best painting instruction I have ever had. Carol’s advice in color mixing was particularly eye-opening. Her explanations are clear and easy to understand. She is very approachable and supportive. I would take this course again in a heartbeat.” (Carol T.)
Easily accessible
It’s easy to get to painting locations on the Schoodic Peninsula. A ring road with frequent pull-offs means you never walk more than a few hundred feet to your painting destination.
Fly or drive
Schoodic is only 90 minutes from Bangor International Airport. Or wind your way up from Boston along historic, scenic coastal Route 1.
The one-week workshop is $1,750.00, including five days’ accommodation in a private room with shared bath, meals, snacks, and instruction. Or, take the workshop as a commuter for $795. Accommodations for non-painting partners and guests are also available.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Questions? Please reach out to Carol Douglas at malerincd@gmail.com.

2024 Maine Outdoor Film Festival at Schoodic Institute
2024-08-22 19:00 - 22:00 | Schoodic Institute, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
The Maine Outdoor Film Festival returns to Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park on August 22, 2024 for an evening of outdoor adventure and conservation films under the stars!
The Maine Outdoor Film Festival is an outlet for Maine filmmakers’ creativity. By attending a Maine Outdoor Film Festival screening, thousands of Mainers get the chance to see specially curated outdoor adventure and conservation filmmaking in their area.
The film program will last approximately two hours, including a 10-minute intermission. Event begins at 7:00PM, and screening will start at 7:45PM. We recommend bringing a chair and/or blanket, warm layers, a headlamp, bug spray, and your favorite snacks!
Tickets are $15 per person, or you can take advantage of our Friends & Family pack – 4 tickets for $50! You may register up to 6 people – tickets after the 4-pack will be priced at the discounted rate of $12.50 per person.
Many thanks to our sponsor, Design Group Collaborative. Offering architectural and interior design services at all stages of your project, collaboration is at the heart of DGC’s practice. DGC takes a unique approach to participatory design with customers to achieve responsive project solutions that fit your needs. Learn more at dgcarchitects.com.
2024 Film Program (please scroll down to register):
WWF – PORTRAIT OF A SEAWEED FARMER NICK MANGINI – 9.5 minutes – by Jeff Siebert – from United States – Short synopsis: Nick Mangini is a Kelp farmer from Kodiak Alaska. He has been farming kelp since the infancy of Alaska’s budding industry.
THE CARETAKER – 12.83 minutes – by Dan Dunn, Josh Bogardus – from United States, NEW ENGLAND PREMIERE – Short synopsis: At the doorstep of Huntington Ravine, sits The Harvard Cabin — a remote respite for ice climbers and backcountry skiers to escape the elements. “The Caretaker” follows the story of Jack Kingsley, who spends his days meticulously observing and documenting the snowfall, weather patterns, and wildlife in the area.
THE NORTH FACE PRESENTS: EARTHSIDE – 33.2 minutes – by Kaki Orr, Rob Wassmer – from United States – Short synopsis: In 2022, Hilaree Nelson, Emily Harrington, Christina Lustenburger, and Brette Harrington embarked on an expedition above the Arctic circle with a vision to climb and ski first descents on Baffin Island. What they found was a celebration of where they’ve been and of where they’re going – and the trip’s success was contingent not on what they skied but the time they had together.
JOJO – A TOAD MUSICAL – 9 minutes – by Chelsea J Jolly, David Herasimtschuk – from Oregon – Short synopsis: JOJO celebrates a creative and musical portrait of JoJo Nyaribo, a young nature lover and wildlife advocate as he explores the meaning of biodiversity and stewardship in his own backyard. This story weaves together Jojo’s love for the natural world with his journey in learning about and fighting against a specific fungus that has been wiping out a staggering number of amphibians around the globe.
DOLLY’S SONG – 12.4 minutes – by Sarah Hamilton – from Colorado, WORLD PREMIERE – Short synopsis: Dolly’s Song is a 13 minute documentary following retired trail builder Dolly Chapman as she passes on the art of the crosscut saw. She never had a mentor herself and is looking to give that to the next generation of stewards.
4DWN – 17 minutes – by Danny J Schmidt – from Utah, NEW ENGLAND PREMIERE – Short synopsis: 4DWN tells the unconventional and deeply personal story of a South Dallas skatepark whose mission is to change the lives of everyone who walks through the gate. The 4DWN skatepark is a resilience hub rooted in skate culture, tackling the challenges of food insecurity and social justice in one of the city’s poorest communities.
BEYOND NORMAL – 28 minutes – by Anna Wilder Burns, Jordyn Romero – from Massachusetts – Short synopsis: Beyond Normal chronicles the journey of professional surfer Becca Speak as she fights her way back to the water after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The film is an intimate portrait of self-discovery and a vulnerable look into the gravity of the injury.

Welcome to the Milky Way
2024-08-25 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
An estimated 75% of the world’s people cannot see the Milky Way – our home galaxy – because of urban light pollution. But here in Acadia, it shines brightly on clear nights. The collective glow of its 200+ billion stars arches from horizon to horizon. Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will explain our current understanding of the Milky Way, our place in it, and how you can view and appreciate its splendors. His image-enhanced presentation will acquaint you with some of our galaxy’s most stunning features.
We will meet in Moore Auditorium on the Schoodic Institute campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Sunday, August 25th. Weather permitting, attendees will then be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of the Milky Way and viewing through a large astronomical telescope (8:30pm – 10:00pm).
Space is limited! Please register below.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
Photo: Harley Grady

Of Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors... and Close Encounters
2024-08-27 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
There are more things in our solar system than the eight planets and their moons. Millions of small bodies of rock, ice and metal – asteroids, comets and meteors – orbit the sun. Many are awesome to behold against the dark night sky, but some are potential threats to our planet. Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will offer an image-enhanced introduction to these celestial neighbors, how to observe them, and the risks they pose when their trajectories cross the Earth’s orbit around the sun.
Join us in Moore Auditorium on the Schoodic Institute campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Tuesday, August 27th. Weather permitting, attendees will then be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of Maine’s stunning night sky and viewing through a large astronomical telescope (approximately 8:30pm – 10:00pm).
Space is limited! Please register below.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
NASA Photo / Comet NEOWISE 2019

Welcome to the Milky Way II
2024-08-30 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
An estimated 75% of the world’s people cannot see the Milky Way – our home galaxy – because of urban light pollution. But here in Acadia, it shines brightly on clear nights. The collective glow of its 200+ billion stars arches from horizon to horizon. Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will explain our current understanding of the Milky Way, our place in it, and how you can view and appreciate its splendors. His image-enhanced presentation will acquaint you with some of our galaxy’s most stunning features.
We will meet in Moore Auditorium on the Schoodic Institute campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Friday, August 30th. Weather permitting, attendees will then be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of the Milky Way and viewing through a large astronomical telescope (8:30pm – 10:00pm).
Space is limited! Please register below.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
Photo: Harley Grady

Of Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors… and Close Encounters II
2024-08-31 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
There are more things in our solar system than the eight planets and their moons. Millions of small bodies of rock, ice and metal – asteroids, comets and meteors – orbit the sun. Many are awesome to behold against the dark night sky, but some are potential threats to our planet. Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will offer an image-enhanced introduction to these celestial neighbors, how to observe them, and the risks they pose when their trajectories cross the Earth’s orbit around the sun.
Join us in Moore Auditorium on the Schoodic Institute campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Saturday, August 31st. Weather permitting, attendees will then be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of Maine’s stunning night sky and viewing through a large astronomical telescope (approximately 8:30pm – 10:00pm).
Space is limited! Please register below.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
NASA Photo / Comet NEOWISE 2019

2024 The Elemental Landscape: Plein-Air Painting with Philip Frey
2024-09-11 - 2024-09-15 | ME
With the beautiful landscapes of Acadia National Park and Schoodic Peninsula as inspiration, artist Philip Frey presents a plein-air painting workshop for dedicated painters with intermediate and advanced skills. He will offer pivotal lessons designed to develop your skills and confidence, clarify your artistic vision, and enhance your creativity as a painter. You will learn to improve your paintings by simplifying what you see, using limited palettes, and understanding the artistic principles fundamental to composition put forth by the Old Masters, Edgar Payne and others. There will be daily one-on-one instruction, demos, and group critiques. Be prepared to be challenged artistically, develop insights, and have fun while enjoying the exhilarating Maine coast.
Our inspiring painting locations will include Schoodic Point in Acadia National Park, Grindstone Neck in Winter Harbor, and Bunker’s Wharf, an authentic Downeast Maine establishment, where we will have lunch together as a group afterwards. There will be daily cocktail hours to socialize with your fellow painters. Optional offerings will include a guided nature walk on the Sun Dew Trail on campus.
Students should be able to participate in moderate walking on uneven ground while carrying painting gear (think rocks and roots on Acadia terrain) and be prepared for unpredictable Maine weather (wind, sun, bugs, and rain). In the case of rain, class will be held indoors or under cover outside. Days will start early painting on-site, with a midday break and afternoon lessons and critiques (see full schedule here). Philip will be painting in oil but has experience with acrylic, watercolor and dry media. Students may bring their medium of choice; a materials list will be sent upon registration.
Two packages are available: Commuter for $950 is the base package while Residential for $1500 provides an enhanced experience. Commuter Package includes instruction, studio time, lobster tour, and the following meals: Dinner on September 11, Bag Lunch on September 12 and 14; Lobster Dinner on September 14; and Lunch on September 15. Residential Package includes everything in the Commuter Package, plus: lodging the nights of September 11 – 14; Dinner on September 11 – 14; and Breakfast on September 12 – 15. Lodging with the Residential Package is a PRIVATE bedroom within a SHARED apartment. Living area, kitchen, and bathroom will be shared with another student. A limited number of private apartments are available for an up-charge. Contact Michelle Pinkham at 207-288-1356 for pricing and availability.
Experience in plein-air painting and good drawing skills at the intermediate or advanced level are required of students. An application and image submissions will be required for admission to the workshop this year. We will email applicants within 5 days of submission. If accepted, we will send a link for registration and further details.
Also note, a National Park pass valid for Acadia National Park is required.
Click Here to Apply
About the Instructor
Philip Frey is a celebrated career artist and instructor with a 2018 published book, Philip Frey: Here and Now, by Daniel Kany and Carl Little. 2024 exhibitions are scheduled at Cove Street Arts, Courthouse Gallery Fine Art, and Greenhut Galleries. Philip is known for his engaging, illuminating and positive teaching style. He is skilled at addressing his students’ abilities and helping them mature as an artist.
Queennette Santiago of Petaluma, CA writes:
Phil Frey is not only an inspiringly dynamic artist but a patient and insightful teacher. His workshop transformed the way I look at the world and how I now approach the ever daunting blank canvas… which is now with confident intention! Having access to and learning from an artist of his caliber is truly a gift.
See more testimonials on Phil Frey’s website: https://www.philipfrey.com/teaching

2024 Open Air: Painting the Maine Coast with Liz Prescott (Registration CLOSED)
2024-09-15 - 2024-09-18 | Schoodic Institute, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Registration has closed for this workshop.
Join artist Liz Prescott in Acadia National Park this September for plein air painting on the rocks of the beautiful Schoodic Peninsula, with sweeping views to the west across Frenchman’s Bay to Mt. Desert Island, and southeast from Schoodic Point to the islands and ocean beyond!
This workshop is for painters with some plein air experience and basic painting knowledge. We will delve into all the elements of color and composition that lead to a dynamic painting. Part of our focus will be on the process of painting itself, from the subjects that bring you inspiration to dealing with roadblocks and how to find your focus as an artist so that you can excel at your craft. Bring your courage and creativity – anything is possible!
LODGING + MEALS
This workshop will take place at Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park in Winter Harbor, ME. We will stay in private rooms with shared baths on Schoodic Institute’s campus. All meals are included if you are a residential participant (residential package fee is $975.00 per participant, and includes workshop, overnight accommodations, and all meals including bagged lunches).

Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Acadia Retreat
2024-10-24 - 2024-10-28 | Schoodic Institute, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) New England is thrilled to announce a brand new retreat at Schoodic Institute! Open to traditionally published authors and illustrators, the Acadia Retreat will be held October 24-28, 2024 at Schoodic Institute in Acadia National Park in Winter Harbor, Maine.
SCBWI New England’s stellar faculty for this inaugural retreat are: Eileen Robinson (Editorial Director/Executive Editor, Charlesbridge Moves), Kevin Hawkes (Author/Illustrator), and Alison Johnson (Director of School Programs for Island Readers & Writers). In addition to faculty presentations, working time, optional school visit consultations, and play time, the afternoon of October 27th will be a children’s book festival so we can celebrate our books and each other out in the community!
Tell me more! What is the Acadia Retreat?
The Acadia Retreat is open to traditionally published authors and illustrators, whether you are celebrating your debut or your 100th book! The goal of the retreat is to play, flex creative muscles, restore, connect with ourselves, each other, and the natural world around us. There will be campfire. There will be lobster. There will be hikes, deep salty-ocean-breeze breaths, creative time, and a brand new festival celebrating you and your books! You’ll come away refreshed and inspired!
Where do I register?
To register, please click here.

Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance Black Fly Writers Retreat
2025-05-02 - 2025-05-05 | ME
The Black Fly Writers Retreat is an inspiring four-day, three-night weekend of workshops, readings, and writing.

Join us for the 2025 Black Fly Writers Retreat, which will be held from Friday, May 2 through Monday, May 5 at Schoodic Institute.
Black Fly Writers Retreat attendees will spend Saturday, Sunday, and Monday mornings (8:30am to 12pm) in workshops of no more than ten participants working with one instructor. Afternoons will be open for writing and an optional individual meetings with the instructor. There will be Friday and Saturday evening faculty readings and an optional Saturday evening open reading, giving attendees a chance to share their work with each other.
This year’s critically-acclaimed faculty include Kathryn Miles (creative nonfiction), Elizabeth Peavey (advanced memoir), and Lewis Robinson (fiction).
To find more information on this year’s workshop and to register, please visit https://www.mainewriters.org/black-fly-retreat.
Registration for Black Fly will close on April 18th.

(From left to right): Kathryn Miles, Elizabeth Peavey, and Lewis Robinson. Photos courtesy of Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance

Landscape Painting in Acadia with the New York Academy of Art
2025-06-29 - 2025-07-06 | Schoodic Institute, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Join the New York Academy of Art at Schoodic Institute in Winter Harbor, Maine from June 29 – July 6!
Course Description: Be inspired by the rocky coasts and forests of Maine’s Acadia National Park in this plein air landscape painting retreat led by Ard Berge and sponsored by the New York Academy of Art. Over eight days, explore nature drawing, the colors of sunlight on surf, and quick painting on locations mined by Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church. The retreat fees include meals and shared housing at Schoodic Institute, inside Acadia National Park, as well as five days of optional instruction.
Schoodic Peninsula and Acadia National Park: Schoodic Point is a coastal “neck” that projects into the Gulf of Maine and is adjacent to Frenchman’s Bay and Mt. Desert Island. Although Schoodic Peninsula is the only part of Acadia National Park that is connected to the mainland, it tends to be significantly less crowded than Mt. Desert Island. The peninsula contains many beautiful vistas along its shoreline, as well as hiking trails. Winter Harbor is the nearest village to Schoodic Point and features a grocery store as well as seasonal restaurants, galleries, and shops.
Lodging and Meals: Accommodations are provided by our partner, Schoodic Institute, at the Schoodic Education and Research Center (SERC) which they manage. The SERC facility is an educational and research campus located on Schoodic Point and is the only provider of housing inside Acadia National Park. Housing includes a private bedroom with a shared bathroom and common area. Six days of meals, including hot breakfast, bag lunch, and dinner, are offered from Monday, July 1st through Saturday, July 6th. Pack lunches and snacks are provided daily so you can paint the landscape. Our final dinner will be a traditional Downeast Maine Lobster Supper.
Travel: The retreat-workshop does not provide transportation. Participants will need their own vehicle in order to drive themselves between sites within the park. By Car: Schoodic Institute is a nine (9) hour drive from New York City by car. By Air: Flights from New York City to Bangor International Airport are approximately one-and-a-half (1.5) hours. Major car rental companies are available at the airport. The drive from Bangor, Maine to Schoodic Institute is approximately one-and-a-half (1.5) hours.
Fees: The retreat-workshop fees are $2,395 and cover 7 nights lodging, 6 days of 3 square meals, and 1 memorable educational experience to transform your painting practice! (Local commuter rates and non-painting partner rates are available too upon request.)
For more information and to enroll, please visit: https://www.academyeverywhere.com/courses/in-person-landscape-painting-in-acadia-maine-workshop-summer-2025

Bird Carving with Wendell Gilley Museum
2025-06-30 09:30 - 15:30, 2025-07-22 09:30 - 15:30, 2025-08-27 09:30 - 15:30 | ME
See how it’s done! Join us at Schoodic Institute with special guest carver Jim Vekasi from the Wendell Gilley Museum for hands-on bird carving demonstrations outside the Welcome Center at Rockefeller Hall.
Visit with Jim and pick up a carving knife yourself – there is no charge to give it a try! Then visit the display of bird carvings from the Wendell Gilley Museum inside the Welcome Center.
Jim is a longtime carver with the Gilley, as well as being a retired Acadia National Park employee who was deeply involved during the establishment of Schoodic Institute 25 years ago.

2025 The Unforeseen Wilderness: Nature, Bookbinding, and Photography with Eliot Dudik
2025-07-06 - 2025-07-12 | ME
Join a small group of folks for a six-day intensive workshop exploring an unusual confluence of interests: bookbinding, photography, and nature walks in one of the most profound places on Earth: Acadia National Park. Tranquility and focus will be our guide as we lodge and work on the Schoodic Peninsula, often referred to as the “quiet side” of Acadia, dividing our time between classroom bookbinding sessions and stepping out into a wonderland of spruce, granite, and sea.
The workshop is led by bookmaker, photographer, and educator Eliot Dudik, who directs the photography program at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. He has spent every summer and winter in Maine for the past decade working on his own long-form photography projects, teaching photography and bookbinding workshops, and exploring the coast of Maine, especially the dreamscape of Acadia National Park. He has been visualizing this unique workshop for years and is excited to work with you this summer!

The structure of the course: Throughout our week together, we will meet in our workspace to explore bookbinding basics including methods, materials, and book structures. All bookbinding tools and materials will be provided. We will practice four different bindings over the course of the week, each building on skills learned in the previous lesson. These books will be blank and can be used as journals or sketchbooks.
Each day will be split between classroom bookbinding tutorials and nature walks in the woods of Acadia National Park. Excursions will include morning or afternoon walks, as well as full day trips to the busier and more popular/populated parts of Acadia on Mount Desert Island. On these nature walks, we will attempt to take in the famously breathtaking beauty while using cameras, pencils, or other artistic tools and Wendel Berry’s essay: The Unforeseen Wilderness to inspire our individualized experiences.

At the conclusion of our week together, we will each create a short edit and sequence of photographs, writings, sketches, collages, or other artworks made in Acadia and produce small books of the work. The photographs can be made with cell phones or more sophisticated digital cameras. Participants will bring their own cameras and ideally a laptop with Adobe Photoshop installed.
The available lodging and meal plan complete this unique and immersive experience, allowing us to disconnect from our everyday lives and truly experience something special, uniquely embedded inside the national park. This workshop is intentionally limited to a small group of participants to enhance the individualized experience; don’t delay signing up as this workshop will fill quickly!
For any questions regarding the workshop, please contact Eliot directly at eliot@eliotdudik.com.

2025 Sea & Sky at Acadia National Park with Carol Douglas
2025-08-03 - 2025-08-08 | ME
Transform your plein air painting skills in this week-long oil, acrylic, pastel, and watercolor workshop on the beautiful coast of Maine! All that while spending a week at Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park.
Far from the hustle and bustle of Bar Harbor, Schoodic Peninsula has dramatic rock formations, windblown pines, pounding surf and stunning mountain views that draw visitors from around the world.
You might look up from your easel to see dolphins, humpback whales or seals cavorting in the waves. Herring gulls visit while eiders and cormorants splash about.
A day trip to the harbor at Corea, ME is included. Far off the beaten path, Corea, ME is a village of small frame houses, fishing piers and lobster traps. Its working fleet bustles in and out of the harbor.
Concentrate on painting
Meals and accommodations at the beautiful Schoodic Institute are included in your fee. That includes a lobster boil by a real Corea fisherman. We’re right on Schoodic Point so we have unrivalled (and permitted) access to the park.
All mediums welcome
This workshop is aimed at helping painters refine their personal technique in watercolor, pastel, oils and acrylics. It will help you find your own voice and style, without becoming anyone’s clone. This is an intensive class, with morning and afternoon on-site painting sessions and lunch-time demos. Classes are kept small so every student gets the attention they deserve.
Carol Douglas has 20 years’ experience teaching students of all levels in watercolor, oils, acrylics and pastels. Her Acadia workshops are very popular. “This was the best painting instruction I have ever had. Carol’s advice in color mixing was particularly eye-opening. Her explanations are clear and easy to understand. She is very approachable and supportive. I would take this course again in a heartbeat.” (Carol T.)
Easily accessible
It’s easy to get to painting locations on the Schoodic Peninsula. A ring road with frequent pull-offs means you never walk more than a few hundred feet to your painting destination.
Fly or drive
Schoodic is only 90 minutes from Bangor International Airport. Or wind your way up from Boston along historic, scenic coastal Route 1.
The one-week workshop is $1,818, including five days accommodation in a private room with shared bath, meals, snacks, and instruction. Or, take the workshop as a commuter for $913. Accommodations for non-painting partners and guests are also available.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Questions? Please reach out to Carol Douglas at malerincd@gmail.com.

2025 Maine Outdoor Film Festival at Schoodic Institute
2025-08-21 19:00 - 22:00 | ME
The Maine Outdoor Film Festival returns to Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park on August 21, 2025 for an evening of outdoor adventure and conservation films under the stars!

The Maine Outdoor Film Festival is an outlet for Maine filmmakers’ creativity. By attending a Maine Outdoor Film Festival screening, thousands of Mainers get the chance to see specially curated outdoor adventure and conservation filmmaking in their area.
The film program will last approximately two hours, including a 10-minute intermission. Event begins at 7:00PM, and screening will start at 7:45PM. We recommend bringing a chair and/or blanket, warm layers, a headlamp, bug spray, and your favorite snacks!
Tickets are $15 per person, or you can take advantage of our Friends & Family pack – 4 tickets for $50! You may register up to 6 people – tickets after the 4-pack will be priced at the discounted rate of $12.50 per person.
Many thanks to our sponsor, Design Group Collaborative. Offering architectural and interior design services at all stages of your project, collaboration is at the heart of DGC’s practice. DGC takes a unique approach to participatory design with customers to achieve responsive project solutions that fit your needs. Learn more at dgcarchitects.com.
Scheduled Program:
*Film Program Subject To Change*
OCEAN PURSUITS | 11.67 minutes | by Casey Nava | Maine | Short synopsis: Surfing and creativity intersect in Maine in winter.
TENDING THE TIDES | 5.25 minutes | by Trixie Betz | Maine | Short synopsis: Maine hosts the nation’s first registered Seaweed and Shellfish Aquaculture Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship programs. Tending the Tides follows young participants as they build careers on the water. Through hands-on training and mentorship, these future sea farmers gain skills to thrive in Maine’s growing aquaculture industry – while helping sustain the state’s working waterfronts.
THE SNOWY OWLS OF LOGAN AIRPORT | 8.98 minutes | by Anna M Miller | United States | Short synopsis: Norman Smith, often referred to as the “Owl Man of Logan Airport” has been relocating snowy owls from Boston’s busiest runways for the last 43 years.
YOUR LAST BEST: A MEMPHIS ROX STORY | 16.32 minutes | by Glen Janssens | United States | Short synopsis: Hope comes to a South Memphis neighborhood that has struggled with basic resources. It takes the unlikely form of a climbing gym, where Jarmond Johnson and others experience different outcomes on the wall.
2 LEGS IS 2 EASY | 6.42 minutes | by Tamara Susa | United States | Short synopsis: Steve Karczewski was born with bone cancer in his leg. After a year of chemotherapy, his leg was amputated above the knee. Nowadays, Steve is seen on the slopes of Roaring Fork Valley. He was recruited by Challenge Aspen in 2008 to join their Paralympic racing team. There, coaches trained him to ski without a prosthetic, on one ski.
FOOTPRINTS ON KATMAI | 21.83 minutes | by Max Romey | United States | Short synopsis: Following his Grandmother’s footsteps to one of the most remote and bear-strewn beaches in Alaska, painter Max Romey discovers that an ocean of problems is closer to home than he could have imagined.
ABOUT DAMN TIME | 25.9 minutes | by Dana Romanoff | United States | Short synopsis: A boatman’s tale about the women who row the iconic dories in the Grand Canyon, their struggles to break into the current, and the passing of the oars to the next generation.

Welcome to the Milky Way
2025-08-21 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Less than half of the world’s people can see the Milky Way—our home galaxy—because of urban light pollution. But here in Acadia it shines brightly on clear, moonless nights. The collective glow of its 200+ billion stars arches from horizon to horizon throughout the summer.
Amateur astronomy Richard Luecke will explain our current understanding of the Milky Way, our place in it, and how you can view and appreciate its splendors. His image-enhanced, indoor presentation will acquaint you with some of our galaxy’s most stunning features.
We will meet in Moore Auditorium on Schoodic Institute’s campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Thursday, August 21st. Weather permitting, attendees will be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of Maine’s stunning night sky and viewing of star clusters, nebulae and far distant galaxies through a large astronomical telescope (8:30 – 10:00pm). Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress warmer than you’d think necessary!
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
Banner Photo by Harley Grady

Stars Over Schoodic
2025-08-23 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
As darkness falls over the Schoodic Peninsula, the Milky Way arches across the sky from horizon to horizon. Late summer’s most prominent constellations are suspended within its pale glow.
Amateur astronomer Richard Luecke will take you on an indoor, 50-minute image-enhanced journey along that river of starlight and introduce you to summer’s most prominent constellations. You’ll learn to identify Perseus, Cassiopeia and Andromeda, Cygnus the Swan, and Aquila, Zeus’s pet eagle. Your journey will end in the constellation Sagittarius, which marks the heart of the Milky Way Galaxy. It glistens with star clusters and glowing clouds of interstellar gas that even our naked eyes can perceive in the Schoodic’s dark sky.
We will meet in Moore Auditorium on Schoodic Institute’s campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Saturday, August 23rd. Weather permitting, we’ll venture outside for a green laser tour (8:30 – 10:00pm), where you’ll meet these sky wonders face-to-face – and likely see a few flashing meteors! A large astronomical telescope will provide stunning views of the ET Cluster, the Great Andromeda Galaxy, the Dumbbell Nebula and more. Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress warmer than you’d think necessary!

Of Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors... and Close Encounters
2025-08-25 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
There are more things in our solar system than the eight planets and their moons. Millions of small bodies of rock, ice and metal – asteroids, comets and meteors – orbit the Sun. Many are awesome to behold against the dark night sky, but some are potential threats to our planet. Amateur astronomer Richard Luecke will offer an indoor, image-enhanced introduction to these celestial neighbors, how to observe them, and the risks they pose when their trajectories cross the Earth’s orbit around the sun.
Join us in Moore Auditorium on the Schoodic Institute campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Monday, August 25th. Weather permitting, attendees will be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of Maine’s stunning night sky and viewing of star clusters, nebulae and far distant galaxies through a large astronomical telescope (approximately 8:30pm – 10:00pm). Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress warmer than you’d think necessary!
Space is limited! Please register below.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
NASA Photo / Comet NEOWISE 2019

Welcome to the Milky Way II
2025-08-26 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Join us for this second offering of Welcome to the Milky Way!
Less than half of the world’s people can see the Milky Way—our home galaxy—because of urban light pollution. But here in Acadia it shines brightly on clear, moonless nights. The collective glow of its 200+ billion stars arches from horizon to horizon throughout the summer.
Amateur astronomy Richard Luecke will explain our current understanding of the Milky Way, our place in it, and how you can view and appreciate its splendors. His image-enhanced, indoor presentation will acquaint you with some of our galaxy’s most stunning features.
We will meet in Moore Auditorium on Schoodic Institute’s campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Tuesday, August 26th. Weather permitting, attendees will be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of Maine’s stunning night sky and viewing of star clusters, nebulae and far distant galaxies through a large astronomical telescope (8:30 – 10:00pm). Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress warmer than you’d think necessary.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
Banner Photo by Harley Grady

Of Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors… and Close Encounters II
2025-08-28 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Join us for this second offering of ‘Of Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors… and Close Encounters’!
There are more things in our solar system than the eight planets and their moons. Millions of small bodies of rock, ice and metal – asteroids, comets and meteors – orbit the Sun. Many are awesome to behold against the dark night sky, but some are potential threats to our planet. Amateur astronomer Richard Luecke will offer an indoor, image-enhanced introduction to these celestial neighbors, how to observe them, and the risks they pose when their trajectories cross the Earth’s orbit around the sun.
Join us in Moore Auditorium on the Schoodic Institute campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Thursday, August 28th. Weather permitting, attendees will be invited outdoors for a laser-guided tour of Maine’s stunning night sky and viewing of star clusters, nebulae and far distant galaxies through a large astronomical telescope (approximately 8:30pm – 10:00pm). Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress warmer than you’d think necessary.
Space is limited! Please register below.
Cost: $15.00/person or $50.00/family of up to four
NASA Photo / Comet NEOWISE 2019

Stars Over Schoodic II
2025-08-29 19:30 - 22:00 | Moore Auditorium, Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, Acadia Drive, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
Join us for this second offering of ‘Stars Over Schoodic’!
As darkness falls over the Schoodic Peninsula, the Milky Way arches across the sky from horizon to horizon. Late summer’s most prominent constellations are suspended within its pale glow.
Amateur astronomer Richard Luecke will take you on an indoor, 50-minute image-enhanced journey along that river of starlight and introduce you to summer’s most prominent constellations. You’ll learn to identify Perseus, Cassiopeia and Andromeda, Cygnus the Swan, and Aquila, Zeus’s pet eagle. Your journey will end in the constellation Sagittarius, which marks the heart of the Milky Way Galaxy. It glistens with star clusters and glowing clouds of interstellar gas that even our naked eyes can perceive in the Schoodic’s dark sky.
We will meet in Moore Auditorium on Schoodic Institute’s campus from 7:30pm – 8:30pm on Friday, August 29th. Weather permitting, we’ll venture outside for a green laser tour (8:30 – 10:00pm), where you’ll meet these sky wonders face-to-face – and likely see a few flashing meteors! A large astronomical telescope will provide stunning views of the ET Cluster, the Great Andromeda Galaxy, the Dumbbell Nebula and more. Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress warmer than you’d think necessary!

2025 Painting Retreat in Acadia with Philip Frey
2025-09-10 - 2025-09-14 | ME
© 2025 Philip Frey
We are pleased to offer a plein air painting retreat designed specifically for dedicated landscape painters. This retreat will provide an opportunity for participants to hone their skills, gain deeper knowledge of materials, and develop confidence in their creative abilities.
The retreat will be held in the picturesque landscapes of Acadia National Park and the Schoodic Peninsula. Under the guidance of artist Philip Frey, students will learn to capture the essence of the landscape, compose compelling images, and comprehend the interplay of color and light.
Each day will start early with an on-site painting session, followed by an early afternoon demonstration and critique. Participants will have ample time to engage in painting, explore the surrounding area, or relax at their leisure. Meals and a daily cocktail hour will be provided in a communal setting, fostering social interaction among fellow artists.
Two packages are available: Commuter for $1,175 is the base package while Residential for $1,740 provides an enhanced experience. Commuter Package includes instruction, studio time, and the following meals: A social prior to Dinner on September 10, Bag Lunch on September 11 and 13; A social hour and Lobster Dinner on September 13; and Lunch on September 14. Residential Package includes everything in the Commuter Package, plus: lodging the nights of September 10–13; Dinner on September 11–13; and Breakfast September 11–14. **PLEASE NOTE that lodging is a private bedroom in a SHARED apartment. You will share the living area, kitchen and bathroom with another student.** Limited number of private apartments available for an up-charge. Contact Michelle Pinkham at (207) 288-1356 to check availability.
To Register: Applicants must possess experience in plein-air painting and demonstrate proficiency in drawing at an intermediate level. A brief application and image submission will be required for admission. Applicants will receive a response within ten days of submission. Registration deadline is July 15, 2025 (please note, as of June 30, there is only ONE SPOT remaining!).
Click Here to Apply
Please note, a National Park pass valid for Acadia National Park is required.
About the Instructor
In the past twenty years, Philip Frey has developed into one of Maine’s finest landscape painters. Known as a brilliant colorist, Frey paints Maine’s harbors and islands with a bold and sensitive palette that captures the light and moods of his home state, from the streets of Ellsworth and Portland to Monhegan and Acadia National Park.
Student Testimonials
“My four week private mentorship with Philip went beyond my expectations. Philip’s style of teaching and one-on-one zoom sessions were efficient and extremely helpful. The exercises and lessons were thought provoking and challenging, and his feedback was clear and constructive, offering tools and resources I could immediately put to use. New to online learning, I found it delightful – I could immediately integrate it into my daily practice in my own studio. His friendly demeanor made for an absolutely wonderful experience. I look forward to more workshops with Philip in the future.” – Sally Dean, Marshfield MA
“Philip Frey is not only an inspiringly dynamic artist but a patient and insightful teacher. His workshop transformed the way I look at the world and how I now approach the ever daunting blank canvas….which is now with confident intention! Having access to and learning from an artist of his caliber is truly a gift.”– Queenette Santiago, Petaluma, CA
www.philipfrey.com

2026 Painting Retreat in Acadia with Philip Frey
2026-09-02 - 2026-09-06 | Schoodic Institute, 9 Atterbury Circle, Winter Harbor, ME, 04693, United States
© Ravens Nest Afternoon Light by Philip Frey
We are pleased to offer a plein air painting retreat designed specifically for dedicated landscape painters. This retreat will provide an opportunity for participants to hone their skills, gain deeper knowledge of materials, and develop confidence in their creative abilities.
The retreat will be held in the picturesque landscapes of Acadia National Park and the Schoodic Peninsula. Under the guidance of artist Philip Frey, students will learn to capture the essence of the landscape, compose compelling images, and comprehend the interplay of color and light.
Each day will start early with an on-site painting session, followed by an early afternoon demonstration and critique. Participants will have ample time to engage in painting, explore the surrounding area, or relax at their leisure. Meals and a daily cocktail hour will be provided in a communal setting, fostering social interaction among fellow artists.
Two packages are available: Commuter for $1,195 is the base package while Residential for $1,795 provides an enhanced experience. Commuter Package includes instruction, studio time, and the following meals: A social prior to dinner on September 2, bag lunch on September 3 and 5; A social hour and lobster dinner on September 5. Residential Package includes everything in the Commuter Package, plus: lodging the nights of September 2-5; a social followed by Dinner on September 3-5; and Breakfast September 3-6. **PLEASE NOTE that lodging is a private bedroom in a SHARED apartment. You will share the living area, kitchen and bathroom with another student.** Limited number of private apartments available for an upcharge. Contact Michelle Pinkham at (207) 288-1356 to check availability.
To Register: Applicants must possess experience in plein-air painting and demonstrate proficiency in drawing at an intermediate level. A brief application and image submission will be required for admission. Applicants will receive a response within ten days of submission. Registration deadline is May 1, 2026.
Click Here to Apply
Please note, a National Park pass valid for Acadia National Park is required.
About the Instructor
In the past twenty years, Philip Frey has developed into one of Maine’s finest landscape painters. Known as a brilliant colorist, Frey paints Maine’s harbors and islands with a bold and sensitive palette that captures the light and moods of his home state, from the streets of Ellsworth and Portland to Monhegan and Acadia National Park.
Student Testimonials
“My four week private mentorship with Philip went beyond my expectations. Philip’s style of teaching and one-on-one zoom sessions were efficient and extremely helpful. The exercises and lessons were thought provoking and challenging, and his feedback was clear and constructive, offering tools and resources I could immediately put to use. New to online learning, I found it delightful – I could immediately integrate it into my daily practice in my own studio. His friendly demeanor made for an absolutely wonderful experience. I look forward to more workshops with Philip in the future.” – Sally Dean, Marshfield MA
“Philip Frey is not only an inspiringly dynamic artist but a patient and insightful teacher. His workshop transformed the way I look at the world and how I now approach the ever daunting blank canvas….which is now with confident intention! Having access to and learning from an artist of his caliber is truly a gift.”– Queenette Santiago, Petaluma, CA

“I have taken many YouTube workshops, two workshops abroad, and several online, and Frey is my favorite teacher—so clear, so many helpful techniques to apply, and so kind and insightful in his critique. This sets the stage always for a wonderful experience for everyone.” – Patricia R., NH
“Everyone has a different approach to a painting project—its composition, shapes and forms, the colors, and, of course, the process of applying paint. I think of it as a puzzle to solve, and Frey taught me how to break down the process into solvable pieces. The discussion after painting was invaluable. I’ve been in reviews where an instructor would say, ‘Did you think about this…,’ or ‘Perhaps a little more color here…’ However, Frey’s approach using Procreate to ‘adjust’ the composition, color, or depth of the image is amazing and powerful. Great tool, and a great way to learn more about the process of thinking about painting composition and technique.” – Bruce H., Melrose MA

www.philipfrey.com
Photo courtesy of Philip Frey
Photo courtesy of Philip Frey
Photo courtesy of Philip Frey
Photo courtesy of Philip Frey
Photo courtesy of Philip Frey
Photo courtesy of Philip Frey
