Have you ever …

• dreamed of guilt free time to do nothing but draw or paint?
• wished you could get engrossed in your art without interruption?
• longed for time to create without responsibilities & demands?
• liked the idea of spending time with other artists?
• wanted to learn to draw & paint but just never had the time?
• longed to improve your skills & techniques with support & help?
• needed time to explore your own style?

If the idea of having time, peace & beautiful surroundings, while being taken care of, then our art retreat may be just what you are looking for.

What can we expect from the Art Retreat?

Rural Retreat is a residential centre, set in 5 acres of farmland, with fields, meandering paths, garden & wildflower meadow. Staying in our 8 bed Dortoir & enjoying breakfast & dinner, the retreats offer you the freedom to draw & paint as much as you like, without having to think about anything else!

You can choose your place to draw & paint from a range of views & quiet seating areas. Enjoy a sunny spot or the shade under a canopy of Horse Chestnut leaves or our new summer house with a glorious South vista. You can spend as much time as you like during your stay, drawing & painting with the support of Alison, our tutor. You can choose to spend the day or part of the day on your own or share time with other artists.

What we will do on the Art retreat

This retreat will give you the skills to be able to translate chosen images to drawing & painting. We will begin the course with drawing exercises & then explore a variety of learning options:-

• Translating chosen images to drawing & painting
• Creating images using primary & secondary sources
• Preparing a canvas & making preparatory drawings.
• Composing images on canvas with ease & enjoyment.
• Exploring different styles of drawing & painting.
• Learning to use acrylic paint confidently.

Evenings at our Art Retreats

Evenings are an opportunity to spend time with others, when we get together for dinner. You are invited to join us to chat over dinner prep. We don’t expect you to do the washing up though!

We have games & puzzles with indoor space if the weather is cooler. Sunset patio is glorious for the evening meal & to draw inspiration from watching the stars, on our dark sky site.

Or, of course, you can spend time working on your art, sharing feedback with others & practicing what you’ve learned during the day!

Your Tutor for the Art Retreat – Alison Richards

With nearly 30 years an experience as an art facilitator, Alison brings her skills in teaching drawing, painting, ceramics, illustration and felting to our Art in Nature Retreat.

Alison has exceptional experience in supporting & encouraging adults to develop their art. Her role is to awaken your ideas & talents, in a supportive & gentle way. She is committed to creating an atmosphere to allow you to develop your own skills & style. Alison has lived here in the Charente for 3 years & shares our passion for nature & drawing on the natural landscape for inspiration.