Art Retreats

A creative space to reconnect with yourself, your art and the beauty around you.

Join me for a creative and relaxing few days in beautiful locations such as Anglesey, Coniston, or the Peak District. Whether you’re just beginning your art journey or looking to deepen your practice, each retreat offers you a supportive, nurturing space to create, connect, and be inspired. With a balance of guided sessions and self study, you’ll have the freedom to explore your art while being gently supported every step of the way.

October 2026 Portrait Residential in Coniston, Lake District [ 3 ROOMS AVAILABLE ]
Oct
19
to 23 Oct

October 2026 Portrait Residential in Coniston, Lake District [ 3 ROOMS AVAILABLE ]

Take time for your art this autumn with a five-day residential retreat focused on portraiture in the tranquil surroundings of Coniston. Designed to help you grow your skills and confidence, this retreat offers a balance of guided tuition, one-to-one feedback, and time to develop your personal approach to portrait work.

View Event →

Take a look at our previous retreats

  • A group of eleven people, mostly seniors, posing outdoors with a scenic mountain view in the background. Some are sitting in chairs, others standing, holding glasses of wine, on a gravel surface with outdoor furniture around.
  • Group of people sitting on a stone ledge with "CABO" engraved in front, on a sunny day with a clear blue sky, some wearing sunglasses and hats, with a dog sitting near the center.
  • Six women sitting around an outdoor table on a patio, engaging in arts and crafts while overlooking a scenic landscape with fields and water.
  • Group of ten senior women standing in front of a stone house with a white door and yellow-green ivy, smiling outdoors.
  • Four people sitting at a round outdoor table with cups, teapots, and notebooks, overlooking a lake and mountains, with a closed gray umbrella in the center.
  • A woman is painting a portrait of an older man on an easel while several women watch, taking notes. The setting appears to be an art class or workshop in a cozy room.
  • A group of people sitting around a table in a bright tent, engaged in a painting class, with supplies, paintings, a coffee cup, and water bottles on the table, and an instructor demonstrating landscape painting at the front.
  • Two women are seated near a large window overlooking a beach and ocean at sunset. They are engaged in activities such as painting or drawing with art supplies around them.

  • "Jo, you're so good at listening to what individuals want and need at any point. I don't usually do landscapes but I've thoroughly enjoyed having a go in my sketchbook. The plein air demo was fabulous to watch... Loved it"

    Philippa

  • "Another brilliant retreat! Jo, you are absolutely inspirational. I look back at the work I did in the past and see the progress I've made due to your input"

    Carol

  • "Fabulous retreat, learned so much from your demonstrations and practical advice. Venue is great, as was the food. Can't wait for the next one!"

    Karen and Lorraine

  • "My first retreat and I was apprehensive, but I needn't have been concerned. You are encouraging, positive and caring, and I felt truly relaxed and at ease with you and all the people on the retreat. Will definitely come again"

    Cheryl

  • "A delightful week, it's fulfilled everything you would expect from a retreat and more... Your wonderful way of making us all feel at home and catering for our individual needs is incredible"

    Pauline G

  • "This was my first experience with pencils and portraits, you removed the fear from both and allowed me to work at a comfortable pace. Explanations were clear and support was constant. I'm leaving with some wonderful memories and some new friendships"

    Wendy

  • "Art teaching at another level, not just skills and knowledge but management of yourself as an artist. Resources used and experience of the tutor shone through, Jo broke everything down so well. Comfortable relaxing with a lovely group of like-minded people. The quality of teaching and advice to several people doing different things with different media is second to none-, making the whole package great value for money"

    Caroline

FAQs

  • The art sessions are balanced with free time to rest, reflect, walk, or socialise. There’s no pressure, this is your time to be creative and unwind.

  • Guests can be offered their own room at a single room occupancy rate. However there is often flexibility for rooms to be made up as twins to share with an artist friend, or as a double with a non-painting partner. In most venues all bedrooms are ensuite.

  • I do my very best to cater for dietary needs related to allergies or health issues (vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, etc.). While I can't promise to accommodate every personal preference, I’ll always aim to provide nourishing, home-cooked meals that everyone can enjoy. A food preference checklist will be sent out in advance of the retreat, so I can co-ordinate our menu for the week.

  • A non-refundable deposit secures your place, with the remaining balance due usually 8 weeks prior to the retreat, however this does vary sometimes depending on venue. Full terms will be provided at booking. If you have to cancel, I’ll do my very best to fill your space, and if successful, your payment will be refunded or transferred (refund of deposit will be at my discretion).

  • My retreats are designed for anyone with a love of art..from complete beginners to more experienced artists. You don’t need to be a professional; just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore.

  • Each retreat includes 4 nights’ accommodation (ensuite rooms), all meals (buffet-style breakfast and lunch, plus a two-course evening meal with wine), and 3 full days of art tuition. Materials lists and specific details will be sent out beforehand.

  • A suggested materials list will be sent ahead of the retreat. I do however provide some basic shared supplies, but it’s best to bring your own core materials. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for any outdoor sketching or walking.

  • Not at all 😊 ...the retreat is about enjoyment, relaxation, and creative growth. You’ll be guided and supported at your own level, with encouragement and demonstrations throughout.