BIG SKY ART
Big Sky Art, on the stunning North Norfolk coast, offers painting courses in a range of mediums led by well-known artists, and the accommodation is in a luxurious country house. Non painting partners are welcome too – so while you receive expert tuition, your other half can explore the nearby harbours and beaches, shop in Burnham Market, or visit RSPB Titchwell Marsh.
The location is ideal for painting seascapes in the open air. Regular tutor at Big Sky and watercolour artist, Jem Bowden, loves the area, “There are superb painting locations – picturesque small harbours, creeks and inland village scenery all of a type that is full of character and unspoiled by time. People who enjoy coastal scenes, boaty things and water – and of course big open skies will be in their element.”
As the co-ordinator of Big Sky Art, Janie Preece, and recent student,
Liz Monk, testify – time to focus on your art alongside fellow enthusiasts complements the scenery perfectly. “It's so lovely to be able to concentrate on what you want to do,” says Janie, “it's also a wonderful opportunity to relax, to be looked after, well fed and comfortably accommodated.”
“I can't choose one favourite thing”, adds Liz, “the facilities, the catering, the studio, the plein air locations, the guests, the staff and our tutor all combined to provide an unforgettable painting and learning experience. The company, the conversations and the laughs we had during our painting sessions and over dinner provided the icing on the cake.” bigskyartcourses.com
The Lake District is famous for inspiring artists and poets, and local artist Colin Halliday is passionate about sharing his skills, and knowledge of the region, with visiting students. “I'm from Cumbria originally, so I know the area very well, and we take students to some spectacular locations.” Colin's speciality is working in oils with a palette knife, “We work with only eight colours and I show students how they can mix any colour they need. They learn to look and see colour and understand it better – to see them get better at it over the days is wonderful.”
Guests stay in Keswick, but travel around the surrounding area to paint in a variety of dramatic outdoor locations. Lucy Wickens studied with Colin last year, “The accommodation and hospitality were excellent – a gorgeous, spacious house, perfect to accommodate the painting group, and the location of central Keswick was perfect. Colin was an exceptional tutor and I've taken a huge amount from working with him.” artpaintingholidays.co.uk