Botanical Painting with Vanessa Montenegro

Explore the gardens and kitchen with Artist-in-Residence Vanessa Montenegro to study the shapes, colors, and textures of seasonal produce. Guided by the artist, focus on micro details before creating your own still-life arrangement with inks, color pencils, watercolor, and markers—all inspired by the day's harvest from our grounds.

Meet our Instructor

Garden to Canvas Creation

Explore the gardens and kitchen with Artist-in-Residence Vanessa Montenegro to study the shapes, colors, and textures of seasonal produce. Guided by the artist, focus on micro details before creating your own still-life arrangement with inks, color pencils, watercolor, and markers—all inspired by the day's harvest from our grounds.

Features

Garden and kitchen exploration with Artist-in-Residence Vanessa Montenegro studying seasonal produce.
Guided instruction focusing on micro details and botanical observation techniques.
Create your own still-life painting using provided inks, color pencils, watercolor, and markers.
Wear comfortable clothing and, most importantly, bring an open mind and a spirit of curiosity.
Appellation's chef crafted seasonal bites and local Sonoma County wines will be shared to compliment the class conversations.

Artist in Residence

Vanessa Montenegro

Acclaimed Still Life Painter

We are honored to welcome artist Vanessa Montenegro as Appellation Healdsburg's Artist-in-Residence from February 28 - March 30, 2026.

Vanessa Montenegro works across graphite, pastels, oils, and acrylics, adapting her style to suit each subject. Known for vibrant color, expressive lines, and an ability to capture energy, movement, light, and shadow, her work spans people, animals, nature, sports, and occasional social commentary—often with a touch of humor.

Testimonials

"The instructor was clear and creative. It was so relaxing!" - Cathy L.

"A great 2 hours with my daughter, we loved to make cookies together." - Jennifer G.

"We learned something new and now appreciate it." - Carrie M.

"Everyone was so friendly and I met some new ladies. Thank you so much for the special time!" – Marilys G.

"I loved the people, experience, atmosphere and learning." - Diane B.

"Very straight forward step-by-step directions, clear and concise. Lots of support and encouragement." - Renee L.