Bringing Birds to Life: A Cobra Oil Painting Workshop with Lori McNee 🕊️
Bringing Birds to Life: A Cobra Oil Painting Workshop with Lori McNee 🕊️
May 8, 2025 – All-Day Workshop 
Royal Talens Headquarters, Apeldoorn, Netherlands
I’m truly honored to teach a special workshop at the Royal Talens Experience Centre—the heart of creativity and innovation! As a Royal Talens Ambassador, it’s an incredible privilege to share my passion for Cobra water-mixable oils in such an inspiring setting.
In this immersive, full-day workshop, we’ll focus on easy, approachable steps to create a lifelike bird painting. (Something similar to this image).
Our goal? To craft an evocative piece using Cobra oils alongside mixed media techniques that add depth, texture, and harmony.
🎨 Here’s what we’ll explore together:
🕊️ Realistic Bird Painting: Learn how to bring your subject to life with subtle details and rich color.
🌿 Limited Palette: Discover how just a few tubes of paint can achieve beautiful color harmony.
🖌️ Mixed Media Magic: I’ll share some of my favorite techniques to enhance your painting’s texture and mood.
Whether you’re new to water-mixable oils or looking to expand your skills, you’ll leave with fresh insights and the confidence to create more expressive, lifelike work.
👉 Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
🔗 Learn more about my journey as a Royal Talens Ambassador here: Lori McNee – Royal Talens Ambassador
From Athens to Hydra: A Journey of Art and Culture in Greece
Join me as I recap some favorite highlights from my plein air painting workshop in Greece.
For this remarkable workshop adventure, I teamed up with Walk Europe to create a seamlessly blended artistic exploration with cultural immersion, a holistic journey of art and culture in Greece.
Athens: The Beginning of Inspiration
Our journey began in the cradle of Western civilization, Athens, where we stood in awe of the Parthenon and painted the ancient streets of the Agora.
For me, this was a bucket-list trip and I was awed to be basking in the same Athenian sun that once illuminated the minds of great philosophers and artists.
During our private tour, our enthusiastic group found inspiration in the Parthenon's columns and the grandeur of the historical Acropolis.
Our stay at the Electra Metropolis Hotel was also remarkable. Each evening, we were captivated by the breathtaking rooftop view, where the Parthenon illuminated the night with its timeless beauty.
By the way, from the vantage point of the 10th story, the sunrises were equally spectacular!
Follow along and tour the Acropolis via this Instagram Reel ...
View this post on Instagram
Agora: Where History Meets Canvas
Our brushes led us to the Agora, a place where time seemed to stand still. As we painted amidst the ruins of ancient marketplaces and temples, we felt the weight of history in every brushstroke.
The juxtaposition of modern life and antiquity in this bustling city inspired us to blend the old and the new in our artworks.
Check out the Instagram Reel below to see more about our day in the Agora!
View this post on Instagram
Hydra: A Haven of Tranquility
From Athens, we set sail to the idyllic island of Hydra, known for its art and culture, charm and simplicity.
Hydra offered a serene contrast to the bustling city, with its car-free streets, crescent-shaped harbor, and cobblestone alleys.
For plein air painters, each corner of Hydra was picturesque, waiting to be captured.
Honestly, Hydra is one of Greece's best-kept secrets!
Hydra Port: The Heart of the Island
Hydra's main town, aptly named "Hydra Port," became our home on the island.
It was a vibrant hub of activity, boasting a lively waterfront with restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries.
We started each day with an optional brisk morning hike around scenic Hydra. The breathtaking views kept us inspired during the day.
The welcoming Hydriots shared their stories and traditions, enriching our artistic experience.
Narrow, steep stone streets wound their way through Hydra Port, leading us to quaint villages and hamlets scattered across the island.
Mandraki, Kamini, Vlychos, Palamidas, Episkopi, and Molos unveiled the true essence of Hydra and its people.
In each village, we found inspiration in the simplicity of life and the timelessness of the surroundings.
The Car-Free Oasis
One unique feature of Hydra is its ban on wheeled vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, scooters, motorbikes, bicycles, and e-bikes.
This policy preserves the island's serenity and charm, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the tranquil beauty of Hydra.
One of my most cherished excursions was a horseback riding tour of Hydra.
What a unique experience that was!
We embarked on a guided horse trek with Harriet from Harriet's Hydra Horses as our personal tour guide.
The horses carried us up the island's mountains, below the monastery and overlooking the harbor and picturesque beaches.
Our journey back to town took us along narrow cobblestone paths and stone steps, winding through the charming villages of Hydra.
I loved listening to the clop, clop sound of the horses' surefooted hooves as they navigated their way through the stone paths, narrow streets, and ancient stairways.
Hydra is also home to a plethora of cats, gracefully roaming the labyrinthine streets and becoming an integral part of the island's charming atmosphere.
The locals lovingly feed and care for these feline inhabitants, creating a heartwarming bond between the island and its four-legged residents.
Our plein air painting workshop in Greece was a journey of contrasts and artistic
revelations.
At the end of each painting day, we gathered to share our creations and exchange ideas while sampling the local wines.
Together, we celebrated the remarkable progress that each participant achieved during the week with the instructions I provided.
The sense of artistic community and the growth in skills among the group was truly inspiring.
Greece's culinary delights are truly a treat for the senses. Each evening, we eagerly strolled to a different local restaurant, eager to savor the authentic flavors of Greek cuisine.
The delicious food was brimming with freshness that left our taste buds dancing with delight.
Every meal was like a journey through the rich and diverse taste of Greece, from the savory grilled meats and seafood to the vibrant salads and aromatic herbs.
With smiles on our faces and satisfied stomachs, our taste of Greece was a culinary adventure that we'll treasure forever.
From the monumental history of Athens to the serene beauty of Hydra, we painted our way through landscapes that bridged the past and the present.
The island's car-free oasis ensured that we embraced its peaceful atmosphere fully.
As we departed Hydra, our hearts and canvases were filled with the colors and memories of this enchanting island. This truly was a journey of both art and culture in Greece!
Greece had once again proven itself to be an endless well of inspiration for artists and adventurers alike. Until we meet again.
Keep an eye out for Lori's upcoming plein air painting workshops or consider joining Lori's Fine Art Tips School for fun online learning.
Your Easy Guide to Water-Mixable Oils with Lori McNee
It's been in the making for nearly thirty years! So, I'm extra pleased to announce Lori's Fine Art Tips School and my first online course, "Transform Your Oil Painting Skills: Your Easy Guide to Water-Mixable Oils."
Inspiration Awaits!
Visit Lori's Fine Art Tips School and discover my secrets of water-mixable oil painting. As an Ambassador for Royal Talens and Cobra Oil Paints,
Unlock a healthier and more sustainable approach to oil painting in this fun and informative course which is designed for artists of all levels, from beginners to advanced painters who are excited to explore solvent-free oil painting. I will do my best to teach you everything I know...
Click here to discover more about the course! https://art.lorimcnee.com/ Then if you like the looks of the course, click below to redeem your special Early Bird discount...
This month, I'm offering my readers a special >>> Early Bird discount of 25% <<< savings of $34.75 (coupon valid through June 1, 2023). You only pay $104.75!
"A no-nonsense introduction to water-mixable oil painting, solvent-free with Lori McNee, an expert and certified Master Artist in water-mixable oils!"
With me as your guide, you'll learn how to create stunning oil paintings using water-mixable, solvent-free, safe, and environmentally friendly oils. Say goodbye to the harsh chemicals and fumes of traditional oil paints, and embrace a safer and more eco-conscious method of painting. Discover the essential techniques and skills you need to unleash your creative potential and transform your oil painting skills.
Join now and start your journey to becoming a water-mixable oil painting expert!
Unleash your creativity and, "Transform Your Oil Painting Skills: Your Guide to Water-Mixable Oils!"
Here's what you can expect to learn:
Introduction to Water-mixable Oils:
- Explanation of solvent-free painting and an overview of water-mixable, solvent-free oil painting
The Benefits:
- Advantages of water-mixable oil paints
- Considerations when choosing the best brand for oneself
Overview of Water-Mixable Oil Painting Mediums:
- Introduction to oil mediums and their importance in water-mixable oil painting
- Explanation of various water-mixable oil painting mediums available on the market
- Demonstration of using the mediums in solvent-free painting
The WMO Rules:
- Importance of respecting oil painting principles for archival quality
- Solvent-free painting demonstration
The Dos and Don'ts of WMO:
- Explanation of the dos and don'ts of water-mixable oil painting
Myths About WMO Debunked:
- Informative video explaining the truth about water-mixable oil paints
- Discussion on whether acrylics and WMO mix together
- Video demonstration and information on how to paint WMO over acrylic
Basic Materials and Equipment Needed:
- Explanation of substrates for WMO painting and how to prepare them
- Demonstration on how to make muslin painting panels
- Introduction to unique tools for painting with solvent-free oil paints
- Discussion on the best paintbrushes and easels for water-mixable oil painting
Picking Your Paints:
- Factors to consider when choosing a water-mixable oil brand
- Helpful article on how to pick the right colors for painting projects
- A handout explaining the difference between student grade and artist grade paints
Choosing an Artist's Palette:
- Discussion on the various types of artist palettes and their benefits and drawbacks
- Extra blog posts on making an artist's taboret from an old TV stand
Getting to Know Your Paints:
- Demonstration of organizing paints using a Split Primary Palette
- Explanation of the difference between a Split Primary Palette and a Limited Palette
Alla Prima vs Layering Techniques:
- Comparison between the two types of oil painting methods
- Explanation of the 'Fat Over Lean' technique in water-mixable oil painting
- Alla prima painting demonstration
Layering/Glazing Demo:
- Explanation of layering and glazing techniques in oil painting.
- Demonstration of layering techniques using mixed media mark-making and indirect methods to create depth and luminosity in a painting
Bonus Demo and Valuable Information:
- Discussion on varnishing options for water-mixable oils
- Short video of plein air painting in winter conditions using water-mixable oil paints, with tips for painting in freezing temperatures
- Lesson on how to properly clean paintbrushes, hands, and studio after a painting session
Conclusion:
- Wrap-up of the course and helpful links/resources for further learning and inspiration.
Take advantage of this special offer!
Go "Solvent-Free with Lori McNee!"
I hope to see you at Lori's Fine Art Tips School!
You might like to read:
https://lorimcnee.com/water-soluble-oil-paints-facts-tips-why-i-use-them/
Simplify Outdoor Landscape Painting with Lori McNee
Visit beautiful Sun Valley, Idaho with a fun two-day outdoor landscape painting workshop. Kneeland Gallery presents, "Simplify Outdoor Landscape Painting with Lori McNee."
Sun Valley is the perfect setting for outdoor landscape painting (aka. plein air painting). Voted North America's #1 Resort Three Years in a Row, Sun Valley is also home to Lori McNee!
Reserve your spot! Call Kneeland Gallery >>> (208)726-5512
Hosted by Kneeland Gallery, this year's workshop will be sponsored by Royal Talens North America! Since 1899, royal Talens has been known for quality fine art brands such as Cobra, Amsterdam, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Bruynzeel, and more.
CHECK OUT LORI'S PAINTINGS CLICK HERE!
Lori's workshop on July 31-August 1 sets the stage for Kneeland Gallery's annual plein air paint-out and exhibition on August 2-4, where nationally acclaimed artists gather and paint. It's a perfect opportunity to watch top artists in the field and sharpen your painting skills.
The Details:
- Sponsored by Royal Talens North America!
- We will be painting beautiful Rocky Mountain landscapes in nearby locations.
- We will visit Lori's Ketchum/Sun Valley home studio!
- We will visit Kneeland Gallery to view and discuss the new plein-air paintings by Nationally renowned artists!
- Discover Lori's simple approach to painting the landscape using a limited palette.
- $325 per person
- Open to ALL LEVELS
- For oil painters and gouache painters.
- More details coming soon!
Reserve your spot! Call Kneeland Gallery to SIGN UP>>> (208)726-5512
2023 Plein Air Painting Workshop in Athens and Greek Islands with Lori McNee
Have you dreamed of traveling to Greece? Well, your dreams can come true! Escape with Lori McNee for a plein air painting workshop to historic and magnificent Athens and Hydra (Greek Islands) for a very special Paint Europe Trip , October 8-14, 2023.
Join me (Lori McNee) on a 5 Star, plein air painting workshop adventure hosted by my friend Tom Harter of Walk Europe/Paint Europe - specialty tours with concierge service.
We will be traveling from Athens to Hydra (Greek Islands) for a spectacular plein air painting and cultural trip of a lifetime! As a result, this will be another bucket-list trip for me! Read on to discover more...
"There are places on Earth where God has reached down from Heaven and touched in a special way, places where you feel like you're standing in the palm of His hand. When you find it, you know it, your soul knows it." - Michael Traveler, author of MIRACLE ROAD
Why Hydra? Here are some compelling reasons...
- Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. A magnet for artists with a picturesque harbor, hillside mansions and sparkling seas, Hydra boasts a relaxed artsy vibe.
- Known as the Pearl of the Aegean Sea, Hydra is favored for its marvelous pebbled beaches with crystalline waters and spectacular sunsets.
- In Hydra, dolphins and seals come to play in its waters without fear and visitors experience kindness, generosity and hospitality.
- There are hiking routes across the island where wildflowers bloom and orange trees grow in abundance.
- Cosmopolitan and chic, Hydra has managed to preserve its traditional flair as its original architecture. The picturesque port is dotted with lavish, pastel-hued mansions that date back to the late 18th century.
- Hydra is known for its marvelous pebbled beaches with crystalline waters and the sunsets are spectacular to watch.
- Everything you need is within walking distance. But, should you decide to venture a bit further, the island’s mules, donkeys and horses are the favored mode of transportation. There are over 1000 donkeys on Hydra! Visitors can ride the donkeys from the port and through the cobbled lanes which are home to the revered Aegean type street cats.
Hydra is famous!
- Many Hollywood movies have been filmed in Hydra. When asked, Sophia Loren praised Hydra as “one of the most beautiful places in the world.”
- Hydra mesmerized Jackie Kennedy and has been a favorite playground to the likes of Aristotle Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Princess Di, The Beatles, Eric Clapton and The Rolling Stones, to name a few.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE AMAZING PICTURES OF HYDRA
HYDRA (GREEK ISLANDS)
EN PLEIN AIR PAINTING TRIP
with ARTIST LORI McNEE
7 Days / 6 Nights
October 8 - 14, 2023
From $4,725
($4,725 – Early-Bird Discount - Save $250 by signing up and full payment before January 30, 2023)
The Itinerary Cliff Notes:
*There will be an optional pre-tour guide tour of the Acropolis on Sunday for anyone arriving to Athens early.
SUNDAY, MONDAY
- Our Grecian plein air painting workshop adventure starts with two nights (Sunday & Monday) in an oasis luxury hotel in Athens in the historical heart of the city. On Sunday evening we will enjoy a welcome dinner with our fellow workshop participants.
- Monday will be a full day spent painting in Athens where we will paint Athens archeological landscapes and neighborhood scenes. The morning will start with a painting demo and then group plein air painting in The Agora archeological site with the Temple of Hephaestus. Then, in the late-afternoon I will lead a “golden hour” painting session in Athens’ historical and colorful Plaka neighborhood, with its labyrinthine streets and Neo-Classical architecture.
TUESDAY
- On Tuesday morning we will take a 1-1/2 hr jet-foil ride from Athens' port to the Greek Island of Hydra, one of the prettiest spots in Greece. We will check into our luxury hotel and then paint in Hydra on Tuesday afternoon. We will be staying in at a luxury boutique hotel and painting each day at different locations.
WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY
- On Wednesday, Thursday & Friday we will paint the island's whitewashed houses and churches, ancient stone windmills, and stunning coastline scenes.
- There will be personal free time for added individual painting, shopping in village boutiques, going for a horseback ride, swimming in the Aegean Sea, taking a Greek cooking class or relaxing at outdoor cafes.
- Optional before breakfast group pleasure walks are organized for travelers who want some morning exercise before starting their vacation day.
*The trip includes many extras including a welcome reception with Greek wines and hors d'oeuvres, Greek wine tasting session, and a farewell gala dinner with traditional Greek cuisine and wines.
($4,725 – Early-Bird Discount - Save $250 by signing up and full payment before January 30, 2023)
Each day we'll feed our creative souls. There will be plein air painting sessions in a variety of beautiful locations with demos and individual instruction as well as free-time to explore offered each day.
- Open to painters of all levels - beginners to professionals.
- Non-painter friends and spouses of artists are invited to join the trip at a reduced cost.
- Oil, gouache and watercolor are welcome! Sketchbook journal artists are welcome too. (I will be painting and demoing in solvent-free oils and gouache).
- Don't forget to bring your camera!
Each day provides beautiful settings for a week filled of joyous plein air painting! We will be painting daily. You will take home your paintings along with many treasured memories of a fabulous Greece painting holiday & creative adventure.
What's Included:
- Daily demonstrations by Lori McNee.
- Daily sketching and painting sessions with Lori McNee.
- Six nights in personally-selected premiere/luxury 5-star hotels.
- Daily hotel buffet breakfasts.
- Welcome Reception – with Greek wines and hor d'oeuvres hosted by Lori McNee and Paint Europe.
- Retsina Wine Tasting Session hosted by Paint Europe.
- Cocktail Hour Soirees – enjoy before dinner gatherings with local Greek wines hosted by Paint Europe.
- Gala Farewell Dinner – with Greek cuisine and wines hosted by Paint Europe.
- Castle/fort/palace and villa/garden entrance fees for all group activities.
- Optional Morning Pleasure Walks - before breakfast group pleasure walks.
- Villa/garden/museum entrance fees for all group activities.
- Ground transportation for all group activities, including inter-Greece ferry transportation, and local water taxis.
individual painting, shopping in village boutiques, going for a horseback ride, swimming in the Aegean Sea, taking a Greek cooking class or relaxing at outdoor cafes.
Trip Cost:
Premiere/Luxury 5-Star Hotels
$4,725 – Early-Bird Discount - Save $250 by signing up and full payment before January 30, 2023
$4,975 – 7 days / 6 nights per person in double occupancy shared hotel room. Tour cost does not include airfare.
$1,250 – Added cost for single room accommodation option (limited availability).
Arrival & Departure City:
Athens, Greece
Trip Hosts:
Lori McNee, Artist & Instructor - More About Lori
Tom Harter, WalkEurope President - More About Tom
Kneeland Gallery Exhibition and Artists' Reception in Sun Valley, Idaho
MARK GIBSON, LORI MCNEE, CALEB MEYER
Exhibition: December 14th – January 27th
Artists' Reception: Friday December 30th, 5-7.30pm
Come meet the artists on Friday. December 30th, 5-7:30pm at Kneeland Gallery during the world famous Sun Valley Gallery Walk! 'Tis the most festive time of year in magical Sun Valley.
Hope to see you there! ~Lori
Water Mixable Oil Painting Demo with Lori McNee on PleinAir LIVE
Water Mixable Oil Painting Demo with Lori McNee on PleinAir LIVE
PleinAir LIVE
Saturday, March 12,
11AM MOUNTAIN TIME
Join Lori McNee at PleinAir LIVE March 9-12 for 3 days of The Best Painting Secrets from 27 of The World’s Top Plein Air Artists hosted by Plein Air Magazine. I’m so honored to be teaching.
"This Will Speed Your Progress Faster Than Any Art School in America!” ~PleinAir Magazine
My Demo is on Saturday, Mar12 at 12PM Central Time. I will be painting with Cobra Water Mixable Oil Paints in winter conditions along the Snake River in Idaho! You can see my demo painting below...
For more information or to sign up CLICK HERE.
Or buy my video, Luminous Landscape Painting with Water Mixable Oils / available on DVD or downloadable.
Artist's Reception with Lori McNee at Dana Gallery
Artist's Reception with Lori McNee at Dana Gallery in Missoula, Montana
Dana Gallery
Missoula, Montana
Saturday, April 23, 2022
2PM Mountain Time
I've been working in my Idaho studio all fall and winter on a series of nature inspired paintings. This new body of work reflects my love of mountains, wild places and wildlife. I will be posting images in my portfolio soon.
Here's a sneak peek!
Stop by Dana Gallery and say hello if you are in the area!
Plein Air Painting Retreat in Harriman State Park, Idaho
Plein Air Painting Retreat in Harriman State Park, Idaho
July 17 - 22, 2022
Join Lori McNee and escape into beautiful Harriman State Park, Idaho for a weeklong painting retreat. This is a stay & play retreat rather than a formal workshop. Lori will be leading this unique retreat which will focus on fellow artists painting together and sharing the unique experience of creating art on location, en plein air. There will be daily painting sessions happening within a short walk from your cabin. Plus, there is an optional art show and sale available at the end of your stay!
Located on the Henry's Fork of the Snake River, Harriman Park is less than 40 miles from Yellowstone National Park. This area is teaming with wildlife, world class fishing, breathtaking vistas and rustic Idaho charm. 🤠 Lodging and meals are included.
For more details CLICK HERE.
A CHANCE TO SELL YOUR PAINTINGS!
This official retreat is from Sunday, July 17, 4:00 p.m. - Friday, July 22, 11:00 a.m. with an invite to participate in Friday & Saturday's art show & sale during Harriman Heritage Days. This is your chance to sell the paintings you completed during the retreat. You will receive free lodging Friday & Saturday night courtesy of Harriman State Park. No commission is taken. We provide the booth and the display easels which hold paintings 11 x 14 and larger. You will want to bring frames for your plein air paintings. There will be a table for your mini masterpieces which do not need to be framed.
CLICK HERE to discover more or sign up for this special painting retreat & art sale.
Hope to see you here in Idaho!
PleinAir Podcast: Insider Secrets: Advice from Top Plein Air Pros Revealed
PleinAir Podcast has just released, “Plein Air Insider Secrets - Advice from Top Plein Air Pros Revealed!"
Originally, this was a FREE training webinar which aired on February 23rd hosted by Eric Rhoads of PleinAir Magazine with renowned artists Kevin MacPherson, Debra Huse and Lori McNee.
The webinar was the most popular event to date and now it is available as a FREE PleinAir Podcast 217.
You'll discover:
- The best way to learn plein air painting.
- Things you can do to improve your work fast.
- What you need to think about before you start a painting.
- A discussion about equipment and packing.
- Traveling with paints and easel.
- Traveling with wet paintings.
- Plein Air Etiquette.
- Little things that make a big difference.
- Unexpected things you need in your backpack.
- Plus helpful stories from these pros and MORE!
Also, don't miss out on PleinAir LIVE - you can enjoy it from the comfort of your own home. All you need is your phone, tablet or computer.
There's still time to sign up and save for PleinAir LIVE! It’s going to be amazing!! Join me March 9-12 for 3 days of The Best Painting Secrets from 27 Of The World’s Best Plein Air Artists hosted by @pleinairmag ❤️
“This Will Speed Your Progress Faster Than Any Art School In America!” ~PleinAir Magazine
I'm honored to be a PleinAir LIVE faculty member! A sneak peek at the all-star agenda at the end of this post ...
I hope to see you at my demo on Saturday, March 12 at 12PM CT! I'll be plein air painting in winter conditions with Cobra Oil Paints along the Snake River in Idaho.
Also, now's your chance to purchase an original Lori McNee landscape painting in the PleinAir Live Faculty Auction.
It's free to sign up! My starting bid is only $200. Auction opens on March 7. Click Here to see my paintings and for more information.
Happy painting,