Sharing the beauty I see
5 Spaces Left: 3 Day Landscape & Sketchbook Course at Wedgwood
5 Spaces Left: 3 Day Landscape & Sketchbook Course at Wedgwood
Art Retreats
Creative space that gives you the gift of time to focus on your art practice, relax, and connect with others in beautiful landscapes that inspire. With expert guidance everyday, Jo’s Retreats are designed to nourish and enrich your creativity…leaving you refreshed with new ideas.
Workshops
Designed to help build confidence, discover new techniques, and develop your creativity, Jo’s workshops are varied, fun and tailored for all abilities. Running throughout the year, they’re also available to book as demos, talks, or bespoke workshops at your own venue.
Portraits
Available for Commissions if you would like a personalised portrait created specifically for you…or as a thoughtful and meaningful gift for someone special…please get in touch using the commission enquiry form below. I’ll be happy to chat through your ideas and give you a quote.
Hi, I’m Jo Watson.
Being an artist is simply part of who I am…I can’t imagine doing anything else. For me, art is about taking colour, light, and form and turning them into something that connects with people on a level that makes them want to stop and learn more, or look deeper. Whether I’m capturing the character of a portrait, the drama of a landscape or sharing my love of art through teaching, what I enjoy most is helping others explore their own creativity, discovering the joy art brings and seeing the world as I do.
Upcoming Retreats & Workshops.
Explore upcoming retreats and workshops designed to inspire, restore, and spark your creativity. Whether you're after a peaceful week of painting or developing new skills at a workshop, you’ll find the perfect experience here…come join me.
Kind Words from Past Students
-
![]()
“Creativity, inspiration & new ways to express myself. Never thought of this in any depth before…art teaching on another level”
Caroline - Art Retreat Ulverston, Lake District
-
![]()
“Fabulous demo on the last day with an on-going dialogue of what she was doing and why…learnt so much”
Milda - Art Retreat Ulverston, Lake District
-
![]()
“Built my confidence in watercolour and learning to experiment. Excellent balance of tutoring, demo’s and independence”
Gill - Art Retreat Ulverston, Lake District
-
![]()
“Such a lovely ‘pause to paint’…the balance of talks, demonstrations & time to work was perfect. Wouldn’t hestitate to recommend”
Pauline - Art Retreat Harlech, Wales
-
![]()
“Friendly atmosphere, nourishing food & dietary requirements well catered for. Jo was very easy to approach & demonstrations very helpful.”
Doreen - Art Retreat Harlech, Wales
-
![]()
“Excited for new projects. Can see the benefit of ‘play’ and trying new things, no matter your age. Brilliant, even for non-art partners”
Kev - Art Retreat Harlech, Wales
-
![]()
“I’ve had the best time ever. I felt so welcome and you’ve re-awakened my confidence and passion for portraits - thank you so much”
Philippa - Portrait Residential Staffordshire
-
![]()
“My first retreat & first attempt with coloured pencils, you removed the fear. Enjoyed it all, the art, the people, the food & the laughter”
Wendy - Portrait Residential Staffordshire
-
![]()
“You had time for us all and gave me confidence. ‘Live’ model was a fabulous new experience. Left feeling relaxed & full of enthusiasm”
Belinda - Portrait Residential Staffordshire
-
![]()
“Another fabulous retreat, thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Loved the location, so many sketching opportunities right on the doorstep.”
Lesley - Art Retreat Cromford, Peak District
-
![]()
“I was a bit apprehensive, as it’s the first time I've done anything like this, but I needn't have worried as I’ve enjoyed every minute.”
Karen - Art Retreat Cromford, Peak District
-
![]()
‘My first art retreat, definitely not my last. Really lovely time, great food, great company, lovely accommodation. Would certainly recommend”
Audrey - Art Retreat Cromford, Peak District
-
![]()
“Fabulous time making new arty friends. Tutoring was amazing. Rooms spotlessly clean, comfy beds and plenty of social space”
Viv - Portrait Residential Peak District
-
![]()
“Every minute spent under Jo’s professional direction is an opportunity to learn and grow. My skills have grown and my work has improved”
Carol - Portrait Residential Peak District
-
![]()
“Extremely well organised. The final amazing demo left everyone feeling inspired and truly grateful for such a wonderful experience”
Jenny - Portrait Residential Peak District
‘Art is something that makes you breathe with a different kind of happiness’
—Anni Albers.