What people are saying...

MEAGAN BURNS, AIRBNB EXPERIENCE SKETCH INSTRUCTOR

In addition to my participation in our local Urban Sketchers regional chapter, and organizing art workshops and travels for Art Leap Adventures, I also offer a "Sketch Your Way Across SMA" Airbnb Experience, for people living in or visiting San Miguel de Allende. This 2.5 hours class is a basic introduction to sketching on location, with an emphasis of capturing the energy of a time and place in your sketchbook, which I provide to you. Open to beginners and well-versed sketchers, I always make it a fun and colorful afternoon in SMA!. Here are my Airbnb reviews:

ART LEAP INSTRUCTORS

Laurie Richards, Watercolor Artist, San Miguel de Allende

​"As an instructor, Meagan is your best friend!  First she beautifully describes and markets your workshop so that participants come feeling confident and reassured that they are in good hands and that they know what to expect.   Then, she works with you, listening to your ideas and needs, to guarantee your success.  Meagan has a wealth of knowledge and experience in these beautiful places in Mexico where you will teach.   Her behind  the scenes work to find the right environment for each event is invaluable.   All of this results in a very supportive experience for the instructor!

It also results in a positive, enthusiastic energy that we all love, especially as we are pushing ourselves and our group to experiment and to embrace the unfamiliar beauty around them while learning new skills.  I will always work with Meagan because I know a workshop under her watch will be an excellent experience for everyone.”​

Marti McGinnis, Artist, Writer, Instructor, San Miguel de Allende

"Meagan is an absolute joy to work with. I love teaching workshops through Art Leap Adventures because I know the details of the behind-the-scenes logistics will be seamlessly handled allowing me the freedom to focus solely on the students! Participants arrive with an upbeat attitude ready to dive into the sessions because the communications from ALA is thorough and well timed."

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Rhoda Draws, Caricature Artist, San Miguel de Allende

​"When Meagan invited me to teach my sketching Fast & Loose techniques in Mexico City, I leaped at the chance. I’m always delighted to see (and sketch) a new location, and Meagan’s skills at managing our small group made for a very successful art adventure. Her attention to detail is awe-inspiring, and yet there was also creative flexibility built into our itinerary. She chose excellent accommodations and locations for sketching, as well as exciting art exhibits to round out our experience of this great city.

Meagan’s positive energy is unflagging. She handled every aspect of planning, recruiting students and managing the trip. Meagan enabled me to focus on teaching, while I knew she was working behind the scenes to support me and the entire group. I would follow Meagan anywhere, for further art adventures in Mexico, and beyond.”​

James Richards, Artist, Instructor, Designer, Traveler, Urban Sketcher

​"When Meagan Burns learned that I was headed to San Miguel de Allende for some sketching and inspiration, she lost no time getting in touch and arranging for me to teach my “Sketching the Energy of Places” workshop there.  Working with Meagan was a true pleasure; she led the marketing (which was top shelf), recruited and registered participants, and arranged the logistics beautifully, down to the last detail, leaving me to focus fully on content and teaching.  The workshop participants were fantastic, up for anything, with a group dynamic that made teaching easy and fun.  The workshop venues Meagan arranged were perfect for our needs; even the weather was spectacular (thanks Meagan). 

​Meagan’s energy, professional and enthusiasm played a huge role in making this a great experience.  As I told her at the time, it’s a pleasure to work with the A team.”​

ART LEAP PARTICIPANTS

Watercolor Drama for Sketchers with Laurie Richards
​September 2019

Laurie and Megan were upbeat, flexible in different learning styles and quite knowledgeable about local customs and eateries. Laurie demonstrates several techniques I had not tried before. Very productive!
Janet P, New Zealand
Meagan and Laurie, thank you for an informative and fun workshop!  
One of the many things I appreciated about Laurie is that she kept reminding us to STOP!  We did two passes on each painting which was a new discipline for me.  I learned how to apply the colors on the paper, how to control the water on a larger brush and how to add drama.  I appreciated the one-on-one attention which helped me get over some blocks I have.  I have studied many techniques, but Laurie's class really inspired me on a whole new level!
Linda O'Neill, San Miguel de Allende
I enjoyed “Watercolor Drama for Sketchers” workshop with Laurie Richards and Art Leap Adventures because it was all SO different from the way I usually work. It was SO good to shake things up a bit... a lot actually.... and get me to consider such things as composition (yikes!) and values.
Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende
The Watercolor Drama workshop really helped me see and understand what I can do with the watercolor medium. It took me to another level! I am grateful to Laurie for her well-considered lesson plan and her enthusiastic delivery, also for her patient one on one work with the other students and me during the sketching with watercolor sessions. I enjoyed our lunches as a group and the two happy hours, too! Meagan, you did a great job coordinating everything. 
Dara Stillman, Patzcuaro, Michoacán

Artistic Tools & Techniques with Alejandro Anaya
​August 2019

I really enjoyed Alejandro's workshop because he's a really good artist and teacher/motivator. I learned so much and used drawing tools I had never used before (water pen, graphite crayon). We were introduced to some wonderfully colored Japanese inks. It was smart to include the tools as part of the cost because we had everything we needed to start drawing after class finished, and didn’t have to search through art stores. A big plus:  it was fun!
Gail Hutchins, San Miguel de Allende

This workshop “ took the lid off “ of my creativity! Since the class, I can’t wait to get back to my old drawings to enhance them, rework them, or create new ones! This is what I had hoped for! My desire was to feel free and unafraid of trying new things. To learn how to use new tools to open up my mind to new ideas! Wow! I’m so excited to learn more! Great class! 
Kim MacQuarrie, San Miguel de Allende

This was the most fun and instructive artist workshop I have ever joined. Beginner or advanced didn't matter because it was 100% fun. Thanks!
John Mann, San Miguel de Allende

I thoroughly enjoyed Alejando’s workshop. I anticipated learning new things and going outside my comfort zone and I definitely did. New tools, new techniques, new materials. It was fun and inspiring. Alejandro is a talented artist and a supportive teacher. 
Judy Boston, San Miguel de Allende

I recently took Alejandro’s workshop and am really glad I did.  It has been a few years since I have done anything “artistic” and Alejandro was very supportive and encouraging.  I now have the confidence to take more classes and will definitely take another of Alejandro’s workshops in the future.
Kirk Starkie, San Miguel de Allende

I enjoyed Alejandro's workshop because there were tools I hadn't known about before that gave some interesting effects to my work. Also, since he works so freely, he encouraged me to work more freely, also with results I like. Recommended.
Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Monotype Printmaking with Hugo Anaya in Guanajuato
​August 2019

The Monotype Printmaking workshop with Hugo Anaya and Art Leap Adventures was AAA+++ in every aspect. Hugo's teaching style, studio and individual attention could not have been better. And, the breakfast, lunch and happy hour botannas most deliciously outstanding. Meagan's organizational skills and enthusiasm was the best. I enjoyed every aspect of  the workshop and look forward to attending more. Big thanks to Hugo, Meagan and the delightful participants in our group which added to an outstanding experience.  Our accommodations at the Alma del Sol B&B could not have been better located or more comfortable as well as beautiful with a fantastic rooftop bar with exceptional views. Saludos!
Dianne K., San Miguel de Allende

I enjoyed the Monotype Printmaking workshop with Hugo Anaya and Art Leap Adventures because: Hugo's studio is a dream place to learn printmaking- spacious, well lit, more than one press and huge table workspace for each student. I find Hugo to be a remarkable person. His energy and enthusiasm never cease to amaze me. The workshop was very well planned and prepped with excellent demos and projects. Each person received plenty of attention and assistance. The techniques presented for monotype were exciting and within reach of everyone and Hugo is an excellent instructor.  Very highly recommended. 
Sally Ryan, Patzcuaro, Michoacán

The Monotype Workshop with Hugo Anaya, arranged by Art Leap Adventures, was great! There is so much to learn, so many steps to a print, and so exciting to see the result. I'm looking forward to taking more classes from Hugo in the future.
Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Watercolor Drama for Sketchers with Laurie Richards
​March 2019

Laurie Richards is an extraordinary teacher. This was the third workshop I have taken from her and I continue to learn many new things. She has dedicated herself to expanding her knowledge of watercolor techniques for sketchers and has the gift for imparting it to her students. Her lessons involve examples, demonstrations and clear cut exercises that are extremely effective. She hones her lessons constantly so that all is fresh and new. It is not rare to find a talented artist teaching but it is rare to find a talented artist who is equally talented at teaching. She approaches all with an upbeat, attentive and patient nature that offers each individual a safe space to grow.

Meagan Burns is the organizational wizard behind Art Leap Adventures. All the logistics are well thought out and the group is always led in a caring, informative manner. All communications and procedures are clear, timely and thorough. As an talented sketcher, she often participates in workshops but if she is not participating, she is there to see that all goes smoothly. She is very well suited to lead and traveling with her is a joy. I look forward to more adventures with Meagan and Art Leap Adventures.
Sally Ryan, Patzcuaro, Michoacán
I enjoyed the Watercolor Drama for Sketchers workshop with Laurie Richards and Art Leap Adventures because":
Laurie is so accomplished at exactly what is advertised: drama in sketching and watercolour. She is that rare person who can not only do it but teach it!  She is very careful to move at the speed of her students, breaking the work into very manageable steps so everyone can gain competence in each part of what she is leading us to. She understands from the learners point of view not just the masters.
And Meagan is the consummate organizer enthusiastically ensuring all is anticipated ready and looked after.  It’s the complete experience!
Doug Bouey, Calgary, Canada
This workshop was well planned and organized, not only with the classes themselves but the locations, lunches and after discussions.  Laurie is both a gifted artist and instructor.  I learned so much from her and all the others in the class under her expert and kind guidance.  I've come away with new tools and inspiration to carry on with regular art making.  Thanks to Meagan and Laurie for a wonderful three days.
Elaine Bouey, Calgary, Canada
Laurie is an excellent instructor with not only her to painting skills but the ability to give positive critique feedback (even when I didn’t think it was that great 🥺, but it’s a great motivator. ) Thank you Meghan for organizing. I also appreciated the group helping me with my mobility, or lack thereof. Thank you all! 
Ginny Bores, Madison, Wisconsin

Paper Mache Level One and Level Two with Marti McGinnis
​2019

"Marti totally succeeded in taking me back to kindergarten, where we were totally free to do what we wanted, get messy and have a great time!
Laurie Richards, San Miguel de Allende
"Ohhhhhh this is the MOST FUN! So easy and soooooo rewarding!
Evelyn Goldman, San Diego, CA
"I've not done this since I was a kid -- I loved it!"
Sara Shirley, San Miguel de Allende
"It's like playing, but even better. You lose your inhibitions and make something beautiful."
Barbara Fess, San Miguel de Allende
"The thing I loved most about paper mache with Marti and Artleap was just how much fun it was to create something. No expectations, just enjoying the process. I showed my creation to friends and now a group of us, including my husband and me again, are taking the class!"
Laura Kuykendall, San Miguel de Allende
"Marti encouraged me to have fun and be playful -- that's just what I needed! She is a GREAT teacher."
Mara Alper, New York, NY
"I had so much fun! My paper mache animal surprised  and delighted me -- thank you Marti!"
Paula Nunes, San Miguel de Allende
"You can't go wrong with Marti as a wonderful teacher -- SO FUN!!"
Kay McMullen, Boulder CO
"I love painting my Paper Mache with my fingers -- so much fun!"
Lilly Richards, San Miguel de Allende
"This is the most fun I've had with my clothes on! If you think you're not creative, come to this workshop and Marti will show you the way!"
Karen Kelly, San Miguel de Allende
"I loved learning the sculptural techniques that I can now do at home -- and it celebrates a wonderful Mexican art form!"
Jennifer Smith, San Miguel de Allende
"After 50 years of silversmithing, I wanted to COLOR! This class was so much fun and Marti made it easy."
David Haun, Patzcuaro, Michoacan
"This workshops with Marti and Art Leap Adventures was FUN.  The class was well organized,  Marti is an amazingly creative and knowledgeable instructor, and both Marti and Meagan are fun to be with.  I left class with a huge smile on my face, and excited to take the next Level 2 paper mache with them."
Dixie Woods Smith, San Miguel de Allende
"This was my first art experience since kindergarten -- it was SO LIBERATING!"
Barry Knapp, Boulder, CO
"Extremely well-organized to let out creativity flow, and excellent instruction!"
Adrienne Allison, Eureka, CA
"I came to be inspired and have instead been more than fulfilled, I have loved taking both the Level 1 and 2 workshops!"
Billielee Mommar, San Miguel de Allende

Watercolor Sketching Guanajuato with Laurie Richards
​September 2018

Amy Atkinson, Las Vegas, NV
"It was such a marvelous week—great lessons from Laurie making us stretch to learn new techniques to improve our sketching, Meagan’s always amazing arrangements so that everything goes smooth as silk, and Hugo’s can’t-be-beat hospitality making us feel so welcome. The weather cooperated beautifully, too. Another successful course for the books!"
Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende
"The Laurie Richards workshop was just great!!! I learned so much, and my watercolors look dramatically different than they ever did before. Laurie is a wonderful teacher, alive with suggestions which were always of great benefit. The workshop itself was wonderfully planned by Meagan of Art Leap Adventures, with the perfect amounts of teaching time and sketching time and down time.  The location in which we stayed, Alma del Sol, is right in the center of Guanajuato near everything, and is very comfortable; Hugo, the host, took great care of all of us. I would follow Meagan anywhere."
Kathy Mackey, Columbus, OH
"What an adventure in Guanajuato. The workshop was beautifully executed by Meagan and Art Leap Adventures. The accommodations at Alma Del Sol were very comfortable and the food was delicious. Meagan kept us on track with fun activities as well as our watercolor workshop. Laurie was an excellent teacher, one of the best I’ve had. She was prepared and well organized. She took us all to greater skill levels in our watercolors. I highly recommend this workshop, and I look forward to perhaps attending another one."
Sally Ryan, Patzcuaro, Mexico
"The “Dramatically Improve Your Watercolor Sketching” workshop with Laurie Richards in Guanajuato certainly lived up to its title. Laurie is a gifted, giving teacher who provided detailed written information, well planned lessons, demos and challenging exercises. The class was geared for intermediate and above students requiring some extensive planning which was definitely accomplished by Laurie. I gained as much as I hoped for and more from the workshop. The excellence of the teaching was matched by the perfectly organized and enthusiastic efforts of our leader, Meagan Burns. To top it off, we were situated in an ideal setting in the charming B&B of Hugo Anaya, Alma del Sol. Everything was first rate and I would repeat this or attend any of Art Leap Adventures trips."

Urban Sketching Mexico City Roma Norte with Rhoda Draws
​August 2018

Sally Ryan, Patzcuaro, Mexico
"Meagan really knows how to put it all together! She’s a fantastic leader who tackled Mexico City with a group of 8 like a pro. Meagan, I think you a born to this with your unflagging energy and enthusiasm. You handled the details with efficiency and attention allowing us to all enjoy a great workshop experience in CDMX. I look forward to my next Art Leap Adventure."
Evelyn Goldman, San Diego, CA
Traveling and sketching with Art Leap Adventures is the best way to spend your time and energy. Our trip to Mexico City for a workshop with Rhoda Draws and Meagan Burns was totally satisfying in every way. I always enjoy the commeradie of a group with a common purpose. Everyone in this group wanted to learn Rhoda Draws’ technique and everyone felt energized and motivated by Meagan Burns’ unfailingly creative leadership. Urban Sketching CDMX was an excellent experience. I would not hesitate to join Meagan and Rhoda on any Art Leap Adventure available to me. Thank you, Meagan, and thank you, Rhoda. ​
Liz Blair, San Miguel de Allende
I've been on several trips with Meagan Burns and Rhoda Draws and I always have a great time -- I can't wait until we go on our next trip together! Meagan is an excellent trip organizer and always selects the most beautiful and interesting locations to visit. Our whole group particularly loved the exhibit of Leonora Carrington paintings at the museum of modern art.  I loved the location of the hotel we stayed at, which was in the Roma district of Mexico City. Meagan has a great sense of humor and is a lot of fun to be around. On this trip, I think I finally was able to better understand how to do the "fast and loose" sketching style.  I was pleased with several of my drawings and displayed them proudly on social media.
Lorna Pashovich, San Miguel de Allende
Meagan did an impressive job of showing us around the colonias of Roma, Condesa, Coyoacan, etc.  I know you worked very hard preparing for that.  I also liked your enthusiasm and energy.  I admire your drawing - very creative, especially with composition and subject matter ( I liked the one with your hand, wineglass, etc.). Thank you for giving us this wonderful opportunity!

Sketching the Cows of Cañada de la Virgen
​August 2017

Lorie Topinka, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

What a delightful weekend… well planned, relaxing, good company, visually exciting, memorable; I always look forward to your trips and catching up on what a happy adventure your life is. Many thanks for all the care and effort you put into this weekend. I enjoyed it immensely.
Lorie Topinka, San Miguel de Allende

Patty McBratney, Patzcuaro, Mexico

Meagan is a pro at organizing the most unique, interesting and fun sketching adventures. We spent two nights and three days eating delicious traditional organic meals that Meagan  planned, sketching not only cows and adorable calves but also the gorgeous ranch scenery. Meagan attends to every detail with taste and aplomb - making her art adventure absolutely perfect - and so much fun!
Patty McBratney, Patzcuaro

Lynn O'Brien, San Francisco, CA

Thanks Meagan for an outing that was amazing in all ways; educational, artistic, cultural, and gastronomical! It was great to relax and sketch with a wonderful group of artists in such an awe inspiring setting. Every part of this wonderful trip went off without a hitch due to your thoughtful planning and delightful exuberance. Thank you again. I look forward to traveling with Art Leap Adventures in the future.

Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

This was a totally relaxing weekend, in such a beautiful place! It was so good to get out of the city and be in bountiful nature. Meagan as usual had perfectly planned all the details, while leaving space for unexpected pleasures. The accommodations were comfortable, the food was fresh and delicious, and the spots which Meagan had chosen for us to sketch were exquisite and inspiring. The company was also great. So was the horseback ride (though I'll want a pillow next time!). I can hardly wait for the next Art Leap Adventure! 

Mexico City Art Immersion
​March 2017

Amy Atkinson, Las Vegas, NV

​Our Art Immersion tour of Mexico City was wonderful. We stayed in a small, lovely hotel located just blocks from the Cathedral, Zocalo, Palacio National and Templo Mayor, so we were close to everything. We visited a variety of sites and restaurants, so we got a nice feel for what the Centro district offered, and saw places, like Mercado San Juan, that most tourists never see. Even as an American speaking little Spanish I was comfortable the entire time, so an Art Leap Adventures tour group makes it easy to travel as a single woman.​

David Miller, Boston, MA

​Loved it!​

Dixie Woods Smith, San Miguel de Allende

This was my second trip with Art Leap Adventures, and It always exceeds my expectations. Meagan is a great organizer and tour leader, flexible, plus just fun to be with. I'm looking forward to my next Art Leap Adventure!

Lorie Topinka, San Miguel de Allende

What a fun time in Mexico City and all made possible by you!!  I so appreciate your planning and organizational skills that resulted in a “taste” of Mexico City that was diverse, safe and fun.  Your high energy, flexibility, good humor and sense of adventure made the trip a good experience for a diverse group of travelers.  Some highlights for me were the exhibit at Belles Artes, the Diego Rivera murals, and the time with the Urban Sketchers of Mexico.  It worked for me to have time to plan for my own interests and I found the various museums that I visited, usually with Judy, worth the effort.  The hotel was a good choice as were all the restaurants. Well done!

Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende

​I enjoyed the tour very much. It was certainly an immersion, and I saw things I would have missed if by myself. It was fun to be with a group of like-minded people, and Meagan was a  great tour leader with a wonderful sense of things to do and see, and she took  care to keep us informed of changes  in the schedule, etc.​​

Liz Blair, San Miguel de Allende

​Meagan is a great tour leader. She picked really great restaurants and places to visit. The trip to the art exhibit at the Belles Artes was a highlight of the trip and so was the historical tour. I collected lots of photos and good ideas for my next art project.​

Sketching the Magic of Patzcuaro with Susan Dorf
​October 2016

Gina Gibson, currently lives on a boat in the Pacific Ocean

Absolutely loved it!  Just the right blend of tips and tricks with lots of wonderful food, fellowship, Patzcuaro sights with a charming hotel and most importantly inspiration!  Great group to share sketching time with and Susan and Meagan were the best!

Mary Jacobs, Patzcuaro

​It was a fantastic experience. The level of instruction was perfect and well adapted to each participant. Accommodations were outstanding with superb service. Each aspect of the workshop was well organized, but allowed for flexibility as well. Thank you for an amazing time.

Judy Plummer, San Miguel de Allende

I enjoyed very much the Patzcuaro sketching trip. Meagan Burns was a superb organizer and we lacked for nothing--we had good food, a great hotel, a wonderful trip on Lake Patzcuaro, and just the right amount of teaching from Susan Dorf and enough time for sharing our work.  I would follow Meagan anywhere!

Patty McBratney, San Miguel de Allende

​For a person who loves to sketch, this workshop was absolutely the perfect venue for an unlimited variety of sketching options (people, colonial buildings, lake, mountains, traditional festivities, lovely patios and plazas, etc). Instruction was on-going, both at the hotel and on-site. The camaraderie was supportive and lighthearted. I had loads of fun while honing my skills. My opinion is that it was a perfect sketching workshop.

Laurie Richards, San Miguel de Allende

Sketching in Patzcuaro with a wonderfully supportive and engaged group was a delight. Susan provided a lot of information and guidance, our one-on-one moments were particularly helpful. Everyone was positive and enthusiastic. Also, the Casa Encantada was extremely friendly, comfortable and lovely. All in all, it was a very special time and I hope to do it again.

Dixie Woods Smith, San Miguel de Allende

​The trip to Patzcuaro was the perfect workshop!  I was impressed with the level of organization by Meagan Burns, which made the venture so easy, and also the artistic guidance by Susan Dorf.  The lodging was beautiful, the restaurants researched, all I had to do was paint with my wonderful fellow travelers.  I'm looking forward to future trips with Art Leap Adventures!

Judy Boston, San Miguel de Allende

The Patzcuaro trip was great.  Good company, charming hotel, Susan's usual encouraging lessons and examples, and Meagan's organizational skills. I am anxious to continue sketching and will join future trips.​

Guanajuato Printmaking
​April 2016

Catherine Hemenway, Oaxaca, Mexico

Highly recommended! I took this wonderful monoprint workshop last weekend. Well organized by Meagan Burns and Art Leap Adventures, taught by Hugo Anaya. So much fun to be in Guanajuato and stay at the beautiful Alma de Sol B&B, with a great group of women, fabulous food and a perfect Centro location!

Victoria Pierce, San Miguel de Allende

My recent adventure with Art Leap Adventures was beyond super.  I am a professional artist and have attended many workshops.  This was by and far one of the best I have attended. The entire weekend was a treat, great food, great B&B and a great printmaking instructor. Meagan makes the workshop amazingly fun!!!  I am hoping to attend another workshop in the future.

Alex Smith, Winnsboro, TX

'Printmaking in Guanajuato', with Meagan Burns, was a wonderful weekend art experience. It provided the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful, lively city of Guanajuato. Our small hotel, in the heart of the historic Centro, was fabulous! Amazing breakfasts and lovely happy hours are served on the roof ...views are spectacular! In the art studio, Hugo Anaya shared ideas & techniques, making hands-on studio time, informative and a lot of fun. I highly recommend this workshop for creative inspiration, adventure and the opportunity to make new friends!

Leni Garetson, San Miguel de Allende

Also highly recommend!! It was a blast learning about printmaking and letting go of my fear of making a complete idiot of myself!! I came away with something I am actually proud of!! Hugo is very patient and a wonderful teacher. Meagan outdid herself putting this event together with a great group of women, fabulous place to stay, not to mention the wonderful city of Guanajuato. Lots to do & explore both in and out of the workshop!! Cheers!!

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art workshops in beautiful destinations