As the artist Pablo Picasso said: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” Have you ever had that feeling? The feeling of how you would love to paint, perhaps just for your own enjoyment, perhaps to develop a talent or just for the fun of doing it? Here are 3 luxury painting holidays which have the potential to nuture and inspire on all imaginable levels.
1. Watercolour painting holiday in Andalucia, Almera, Spain
Picture yourself on a 50 acres creative retreat, of farmland, nestled in the Parque Natural Mara Los Vlez, learning how to work confidently with watercolours. This course is accredited by the University of Granada Art Faculty, and your teacher will be Simon Beckmann.
Simon did his postgraduate at The Royal Acadamy Schools in London, after studying Fine Art in Manchester School of Art. He spent time living in Milan to follow his interest in the early Renaissance painters. He is also an ecologist, whose company Beckmann Artist Led Environmental Design was featured in the UK Independent newspaper.
This is luxury accomodation with a twist. Set in exceptional beauty, you will stay in a luxury eco-chic guest house which has been recommended by Alastair Sawday. The guest house has been designed with tasteful, stylish minimalism and offers the guest an uncomplicated luxury residence.
Courses are run for 8 days and cost 834 per person.
The price includes:
30 hours of tuition from Simon, in groups that are no larger than 12 people
A private en suite room
Breakfast, lunch and dinner for the week, as well as wine at dinner each night
Painting materials included in the price are: lightweight folding chairs, easels and drawing boards.
Other painting materials can be brought by you, or alternatively can be bought on arrival by prior arrangement.
2. Mitch Waite painting holidays in Vence, South of France
Be inspired by the town of Vence, which has been home to numerous artists, including Matisse. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice between the really picturesque old town, the amazing sea and mountain views, and scenery further afield which can include gorges and La Haute Cagnes.
Your teacher will be Mitch Waite, who is an English artist who specialises in landscapes, portraits and street scenes. He first exhibited in England over 25 years ago and since then he has exhibited in other countries which include Monaco, and the South of France where he currently lives.
Guests stay at what was once an ancient manor and is now the Miramar Hotel, which has privileged panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea and the neighbouring mountains. All of the hotel’s 18 rooms have been turned into a work of art by local artist Philippe Roessler, who has decorated each room in a Provencal theme. The hotel’s garden takes the guest to terraces which have gorgeous views, as well as a cleverly positioned swimming pool.
Courses are for both beginners and the more experienced, and are for one week. Prices are 1490 for those sharing a twin/double room, or 1790 for a single room.
The price includes:
6 full days of expert tuition
7 nights bed and breakfast, 6 dinners which include wine, 6 lunches with drinks/wine Excursions to paint and sight-see
Transfers to and from Nice Airport or railway stations are also included
All art materials, which includes using any medium (oil, watercolour, etc.) that you wish
CD souvenir of course
Your paintings will be exhibited on their online gallery
3. Gastronomic painting holiday, Argyll, Scotland
Marvel at the special light in this part of Scotland! The Drawing Room Art School offers a one week residential course in luxury, in the historic Ormidale House, where the visitor can feel overome with the skyscapes and seascapes which have inspired countless artists. Set at the head of Loch Riddon, this wonderful location is only and hour and a half from Glasgow Airport.
Ormidale House is currently top of the four star ratings for excellence, awarded by Visit Scotland. The house is set in 20 acres of beautifully manicured grounds and has 13 lovely bedrooms.
The course is limited to 18 partipants, and is a unique opportunity for students to develop their interest and skills in a convivial and inspirational environment. One of Scotland’s most collected contemporary painters, Charles Jamieson, is amongst the group of tutors, who will be there to teach you. Apart from his intuitive teaching approach, he is a wonderful host and storyteller.
2 nights, 3 day course dates are between 26th to 28th March, or 25th to 27th September
Single 799 (extra nights 200 p/n)
Twin/Double 699 (extra nights 150 p/n)
The price includes:
All food
Drinks including alcoholic drinks
Whisky tasting
Traditional music
All necessary materials
Visit to Benmore Botanic Gardens
Visit to the Old Castle Lachlan
