Pedal & Paint Workshop
October 16th (evening) & 17th, 2026 • Grand Junction, Colorado
Combine the joy of mountain biking with the creativity of plein air painting in the heart of the Colorado Plateau. Pedal & Paint is an immersive outdoor workshop that guides riders along the iconic Kokopelli Trail System to dramatic cliffside lookouts above the Colorado River.
Guided by celebrated Western Colorado landscape artist Monica Esposito, participants will learn how to capture changing light, vivid terracotta sandstone, unique desert flora, and vast horizons on canvas—right where inspiration strikes.
Location: Kokopelli Trailhead (Loma / Fruita, CO)
Riding Level : Beginner/Intermediate
Art Experience : Open to all levels—from beginners to experienced outdoor painters!
ITINERARY
Friday, October 16, 2026 : Gemini Beer Company
6 pm - 8 pm : Meet & Greet, Introduction to plein air painting techniques, and pick up painting kits
Saturday, October 17, 2026
9 am - 3 pm : On-trail painting instruction while riding to various locations on the Kokopelli Trail System
5 pm - 7 pm : Gallery walk & Reception at West Winds Gallery, light refreshments provided
Group Size is limited to 6 participants for personalized instruction.
Monica Esposito, born in Denver in 1978, is a working artist as well as a registered nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado. As a young woman, Monica frequently visiting the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth and was exposed to many artistic visionaries of the west, including Georgia O’Keeffe. Monica received her degree in Fine Arts, Painting, from the University of Texas. Although her focus as a young painter was on the human figure at the University of Texas, she quickly turned to the western landscape for her inspiration. Monica paints in plein air to find inspiration for her larger studio pieces. She credits the art and life of Georgia O’Keeffe as one of her strongest influences.
Plein Air Instruction with Monica Esposito
Set up at handpicked scenic overlooks for step-by-step instruction from Monica Esposito.
Monica will lead field demonstrations covering:
Western Light & Color Palette: Capturing the shifts between high-desert sandstone, lush river valleys, and sweeping skies.
Composition in the Wild: Simplifying grand, open landscapes into compelling focal points.
Outdoor Studio Techniques: Managing changing light, shadows, and natural conditions efficiently.
Scenic Western Colorado Mountain Biking
Ride curated sections of the Kokopelli System, including Mary's Loop and Lion's Loop. Experience high-reward desert singletrack offering panoramic views of the Colorado River corridor and surrounding canyon formations.
Evening Gallery Walk & Reception
Conclude the evening with a group visual review, light refreshments, and time to swap stories with fellow riders and artists.
Included in Registration
Guided mountain bike leadership and field support
Fully packable plein air painting kit (sketch book, palette, paints, and brushes)
Catered trail lunch, snacks, and hydration refills
Transportation to and from trailhead from Grand Junction, Colorado
Participant Gear Checklist
Mountain Bike: Well-maintained hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike
Safety Gear: Helmet (required), riding gloves, and eye protection
Hydration & Pack: Backpack with capacity to carry lightweight art supplies plus water & snacks