Painting Workshops and Events Calendar for 2024 – and now moving in to 2025!
2025 painting workshops + retreats
Wow, can you believe were already wrapping up 2024s workshop opportunities and were already well into planning for 2025? This seems like deja vu as I just wrote that for last year and boom, here we are. How time flies hey! Well, that alone encourages us to grab the bull by the horns and take the plunge into learning something new, learning more about the things you love or have always wanted to do, and to experience all the beautiful things that come with the new energy in your life.
I hope that 2025 is YOUR time to be nourished, to jump in to your creative pursuits and get those juices flowing. On the creative front, lets kick off 2025’s painting workshop and retreat calendar here and see whats on offer for you this year.
As you may know, this blog post is updated throughout the year with new. So now we begin the transition to the year ahead, Im simply going to add the new to the top of 2024s years events, so you can still scroll down and take a look at our memories of past painting workshops. It gives you an idea of the events and beautiful work we create in these days spent together, see which might be a good fit for you, and lets not overlook the smiles! I love that so much and it is something that keeps me teaching every time.
We have the Gold Coast, Tasmania, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast now confirmed already with Melbourne in our sights… and of course, if you have a group and would like me to come to you elsewhere, please let me know and we can talk about making that happen too. All the information, links to the event and to book are included in each section below, but you can always reach out to me if you need further assistance. First up, Im pleased to announce 2 new events with Artable, a 5 day event on the Gold Coast in March and a week long retreat coming up in Tasmania in September 2025, which ill post more about for you soon.
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gold coast
‘Black cockatoo portrait IN watercolour’
5 DAYs march 2025 – BOOkings now open – LAST PLACES BOOKING FAST!!!
Black Cockatoo Portrait: A 5-Day Painting Workshop.
Immerse Yourself in the Art of Painting the Black Cockatoo this March with an engaging 5-day workshop dedicated to capturing the majestic Black Cockatoo in watercolour. Held at the charming Sculptors Society on the Gold Coast, this workshop promises to be an enriching experience for both seasoned artists and eager beginners.
What Will You Learn?
In this intensive workshop, you will:
- Capture Vibrant Blacks: Learn techniques for rendering deep, vibrant blacks that bring out the striking features of the Black Cockatoo.
- Work in Layers: Explore the art of layering to create depth and texture, from the rich, glossy plumage to the delicate yellow markings on the feathers.
- Texture & Detail: Master the creation of a range of textures, including the cockatoo’s weathered beak and expressive, glassy eye.
- Realistic Rendering: Develop skills in realistic bird illustration and rendering, enhancing your overall watercolour technique and artistic expression.
Why Attend?
- Detailed Instruction: Benefit from in-depth demonstrations and personalised guidance throughout the workshop. I’ll be with you every step of the way to help you achieve a stunning Black Cockatoo portrait.
- Creative Exploration: This workshop goes beyond painting a single bird; it’s about expanding your knowledge of watercolour techniques and bird illustration, and tapping into your creative potential.
- Beautiful Venue: Enjoy painting in the cozy, inspiring environment of the Sculptors Society, a perfect setting to relax and focus on your art, in the wonderful company of other like minded students.
Registration:
Ready to take on this exciting painting challenge? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your painting skills, meet like-minded artists, and create a breathtaking portrait of the Black Cockatoo. Click the link to book your place and get ready to dive into a week of creativity and artistic growth!
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MELBOURNE
‘MACAW portrait IN watercolour’
3 DAYs APRIL 2025 – BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
Macaw Portrait; A 3 Day Painting Workshop
Great news MELBOURNE! Weve just confirmed a wonderful 3 day workshop for April 2025, exploring a fantastic subject of the MACAW in watercolour, and I am very excited to bring this stunning subject to you, first time on offer for a face to face event. This workshop promises to be a vibrant, colour, texture and character filled experience for both seasoned artists and eager beginners alike, walking you through all the real and wonderful challenges this will bring.
What Will You Learn?
In this intensive workshop, you will:
- Capture Vibrant, Pigment Rich Colour: Learn techniques for rendering the truly vibrant colours of the macaw.
- Work in Layers: Explore the art of layering to create depth and texture across all areas in our subject.
- Texture & Detail: Master the creation of a range of textures, including the Macaws powerful beak, as well as capturing the all important and remarkable eye, really bringing your bird to life.
- Realistic Rendering: Develop skills in realistic bird illustration and rendering, enhancing your overall watercolour technique and bird painting skills.
Why Attend?
- Detailed Instruction: Benefit from in-depth demonstrations and personalised guidance throughout the workshop. I’ll be with you every step of the way to help you achieve a wonderful Macaw Portrait in watercolour.
- Creative Exploration: This workshop goes beyond painting a single bird; it’s about expanding your knowledge of watercolour techniques and bird illustration, and tapping into your creative potential.
- Unplug, Have Fun, Explore and Learn! This needs no explanation, but the social side of face to face workshops is something truly valuable!
Registration:
Ready to take on this exciting painting challenge? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your painting skills, meet like-minded artists, create a wonderful Macaw painting of your own and enjoy diving into a week of creativity and artistic growth! This is a completely new workshop opportunity, so hit this booking link or email Artable directly to join us. info@artable.com.au
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brisbane
‘duck portrait in watercolour’
3 DAYs JUly 2025 – now open for bookings!!!
Are you ready to dive into a challenging but fun painting experience? Join us for a unique workshop where we explore the artistry of classic natural history painting, inspired by the delightful success of ‘Oreo’, my duck portrait in the flyer! Due to popular demand from my enthusiastic students, I’m thrilled to offer this 3 day face-to-face opportunity to create another stunning realistic duck portrait in watercolour.
In this workshop, we’ll embark on a new creative journey creating a classic, beautifully styled duck portrait. Though we haven’t chosen our duck yet, rest assured it will be an exquisite subject, promising to enhance your painting skills and ignite your passion for natural history art and bird painting.
What Will You Learn?
- Techniques: Gain expertise in wash, glazing, and dry brushing techniques to create intricate details and refined work.
- Subject Mastery: Learn to tackle the challenges of painting lifelike birds with confidence.
- Creative Growth: Enhance your artistic abilities in a supportive and inspiring environment.
What will I learn?
In my workshops I am all about getting my students on the path to independent painting, with confidence to take on the challenges it will present you. I focus strongly on wash, glazing and dry brushing techniques to create refined work and detail. The subject/s will be carefully selected and crafted to maximise your exposure, knowledge and learning about this fantastic medium and genre. Learn, grow and enjoy is the name of the game for this workshop
- Fun & Engaging: Expect a workshop that’s both serious about painting, and seriously fun, exploring such a wonderful subject.
- Expert Guidance: I’ll guide you on every step of the way through the painting process, sharing valuable tips and techniques to help you get on the path to independent painting.
- Beautiful Venue: Enjoy the creative ambiance of Bienarté’s fantastic Brisbane studio. Don’t miss out on this chance to refine your craft and connect with fellow art enthusiasts with our shared loves.
Bonus Opportunity: For those eager to extend their creative journey, consider joining me for a 5-day adventure in Brisbane by adding the adjoining 2-day Botanical Illustration In Watercolour Workshop to your schedule. It’s going to be an exciting and enriching experience! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a perfect opportunity to deepen your painting skills and enjoy a creative escape. Register now to secure your place and start your ducking great painting adventure! Ill see you there!
This event is hosted by Bienarté so get in touch with them to secure your place. BUT, it is so very new that I dont have the direct link to book yet. For you early birds, give Yasmin a yell via email at team@bienarte.com.au to grab your spot and Ill see you there!
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brisbane
‘botanical illustration in watercolour’
3 DAYs JUly 2025 – now open for bookings!!!
Have a passion for realistic painting and a love for botanicals and always wanted to learn? Would you like to improve on your existing painting skills and creative pursuits? You’re in the right place! I’m thrilled to announce a beautiful 2-day painting workshop returning to the fabulous Bienarté Studio in Brisbane. The studio’s fantastic space, great location, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal setting for creative exploration.
Youve been asking for a return to botanicals lately, and you know I really do my best to listen and provide what my students are looking for as best I can. As you know, botanical illustration is one of my true loves, and Im looking forward to sharing my knowledge of this captivating genre, and the watercolour medium with you. Whether you’re a new student or a returning artist, this workshop will provide a perfect opportunity to enhance your watercolour skills and immerse yourself in the art of botanical painting.
What Will You Learn?
- Techniques: Master essential watercolour techniques including wash, glazing, and dry brushing to create detailed and refined botanical illustrations.
- Subject Matter: While the specific subjects are still to be determined, they will be chosen to maximise your learning and appreciation of the medium.
- Creative Confidence: Develop the skills and confidence needed to tackle realistic botanical painting and the watercolour medium independently.
What will I learn?
In my workshops I am all about getting my students on the path to independent painting, with confidence to take on the challenges it will present you. I focus strongly on wash, glazing and dry brushing techniques to create refined work and detail. The subject/s are yet to be determined, but they will be carefully selected and crafted to maximise your exposure, knowledge and learning about this fantastic medium and genre. Learn, grow and enjoy is the name of the game for this workshop, and all my workshops, so put your worries aside and let me help you get on your best track for realistic watercolour painting and the all addictive craft of botanical illustration.
- Inspiring Environment: Enjoy painting in the vibrant Bienarté Studio with a supportive group of fellow artists, sharing our love of nature and painting.
- Expert Guidance: Benefit from personalised instruction and my extensive experience in botanical illustration, watercolour painting, and as a tutor.
- Fun & Engaging: Expect a workshop that’s as enjoyable as it is educational, with plenty of opportunities to grow and refine your craft.
Bonus Opportunity: For those eager to extend their creative journey, consider the adjoining 3-day Duck Portrait in Watercolour Workshop to your schedule for a full 5 days. It’s going to be an exciting and enriching creative experience and I can’t wait to see you there. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a perfect opportunity to deepen your painting skills and enjoy a creative escape. Register now to secure your place and let me help you along with your creative goals.
This event is hosted by Bienarté so get in touch with them to secure your place. BUT, it is so very new that I dont have the direct link to book yet. For you early birds, give Yasmin a yell via email at team@bienarte.com.au to grab your spot and Ill see you there!
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SUNSHINE COAST
‘small bird illustration – watercolour’
3 DAYs JUly 2025 – now open for bookings
Are you passionate about nature and eager to explore the delicate art of watercolour painting and bird illustration in watercolour? Join us for a captivating 3-day workshop at Bienarté’s stunning Sunshine Coast studio. This friendly and supportive environment is perfect for anyone with a love for nature, painting, and detail, whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out.
What Will You Learn?
In this workshop, you’ll immerse yourself in the world of watercolour painting as we focus on illustrating small birds. Through this detailed and intricate process, you will:
- Learn About Watercolour Painting Techniques: Learn essential techniques such as transparent washes, glazing (layering of washes), and dry brushing to create depth and texture in your artwork.
- Explore Bird Illustration: Although our specific subject is yet to be determined, it will be one that has been carefully selected to maximise your learning experience, Delving into the specifics of bird painting, including texture creation, feather effects, and the portrayal of colour variations and sheen.
- Develop Fine Details: Gain skills in capturing the fine details that make bird illustrations realistic and captivating.
- Build Confidence: Whether you’re new to watercolour or looking to refine your skills, you will receive personalised guidance to enhance your technique and confidence.
Why Attend?
- Beautiful Setting: Enjoy painting in Bienarté’s beautiful Sunshine Coast studio, which provides a wonderful atmosphere for creativity and learning.
- Supportive Environment: Benefit from a workshop designed for all levels, where individual attention ensures you’ll progress at your own pace.
- Creative Growth: Leave with a deepened understanding of watercolour and a realistic bird painting that showcases your new skills.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your watercolour skills and create a stunning realistic bird illustration in this wonderful medium. Sign up now and take the first or next step towards mastering the art of small bird painting in watercolour… I look forward to seeing you there and enjoying this creative journey together!
This event is hosted by Bienarté so get in touch with them to secure your place. BUT, it is soooo new I dont have the direct link to book yet. No fear, give Yasmin a yell via email at team@bienarte.com.au to grab your spot and Ill see you there!
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‘small birds & botanicals IN WATERCOLOUR’ – wallabadah nsw
5 DAYS september 2025 – BOOKING FAST!!!
3rd – 7th September inclusive – 5, 3 or 2 day options
Ive been asked for some NSW events a bunch of times over the year, so I am really excited to explore this new venue and ‘in house’ workshop experience with you. This painting workshop is a 5 day event with a 2 and/or 3 day option, designed to meet whatever needs you may have. Stay a short while, or stay longer with us to truly immerse yourself in this peaceful location, tucked away in the beautiful NSW countryside. This is a creative week, but its more than that too. Its a huge chance to unplug, unwind and nourish yourself, with your accommodation, meals and onsite tuition included. Yep, theres nothing to think about outside of the painting and we ❤️ that.
Hosted by The Art Shack, Tania is there to assist you with any enquiries you may have, and to get you booked in. We will be dipping our toes in to bird illustration for the 3 day component of the workshop, and botanical illustration for 2 days. All are welcome of course, and I look forward to helping you along on your creative pursuits!
What Will You Learn?
In this workshop, you’ll immerse yourself in the world of watercolour painting as we focus on illustrating small birds and botanical illustration. With my step by step guidance and demonstrations, you will:
- Learn About Watercolour Painting Techniques: Learn essential techniques such as transparent washes, glazing (layering of washes), and dry brushing to create depth and texture in your artwork.
- Explore Bird Illustration: Although our specific subject is yet to be determined, it will be one that has been carefully selected to maximise your learning experience, Delving into the specifics of bird painting, including texture creation, feather effects, and the portrayal of colour variations and sheen.
- Develop Fine Details: Gain skills in capturing the fine details that make bird illustrations realistic and captivating.
- Explore Botanical Illustration: Again, our subject will be specifically chosen to maximise your learning experience in this wonderful painting genre and challenge, exploring all the critical elements for improved botanical painting.
- Build Confidence: Whether you’re new to watercolour or looking to refine your skills, you will receive personalised guidance to enhance your technique and confidence.
Why Attend?
- Beautiful Setting: Enjoy a little time out, painting in this wonderful rural setting, set on a vast 660 acre property in the NSW countryside.
- All Inclusive: This workshop includes your tuition, accommodation and meals, so it really is a lovely break from the pressures of the world outside and that monkey mind inside!
- Supportive Environment: Benefit from a workshop designed for all levels, where individual attention ensures you’ll progress at your own pace.
- Creative Growth: Leave with a deepened understanding of realistic watercolour, botanical and bird painting, and an improved skillset to keep creating beyond the week.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity, which promises to be so much more than just the workshop alone. Enhance your watercolour skills, learn a lot, meet new like minded people, enjoy the location and relax with us. Email Tania – admin@artshackwilgabah.com to secure your spot!
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‘nature STUDIES IN WATERCOLOUR’ – TASMANIA retreat
7 DAYS september 2025 – open for bookings now
21st – 27th September inclusive
Example of student work from 2024 in the image
Retreat Description: Painting Retreat 2025 – A Week of Artistic Immersion in Tasmania
Experience Art in the Heart of Tasmania!
Get ready for an unforgettable week at our Painting Retreat in 2025! This unique, immersive event is designed for artists and nature lovers alike, offering a perfect blend of painting, relaxation, and exploration in the breathtaking northeast corner of Tasmania.
What to Expect:
- Accommodation: Stay in a newly renovated, century-old pub with cozy, private rooms, most featuring their own bathrooms. The pub includes a bar and a restaurant, ensuring you’re well-fed and comfortable throughout your stay.
- Studio & Classes: Our on-site studio will be your creative hub. Classes will run daily, but you’re free to explore and paint at your own pace, making the most of this stunning location.
- Scenic Beauty: The retreat is perfectly timed to celebrate spring, surrounded by lush gardens, crystal-clear streams, and vibrant local flora and fauna. Take leisurely walks through flower gardens and enjoy the peaceful environment that inspires your creativity.
Artistic Focus:
- Field Trips & Studio Work: Combine field trips in nature with studio time to create natural history drawings and watercolour studies. You’ll have the opportunity to observe and capture the unique lichens, mosses, eucalypts, bird and wildlife that make this region so special.
- Personalised Instruction: You’ll be guided by Heidi Willis, one of Australia’s most renowned watercolour and natural history artists. With daily classes and plenty of time for individual exploration, you’ll receive expert guidance and feedback.
Why Join Us?
- Connect & Create: Meet fellow artists, forge new friendships, and share your passion for painting in a supportive and inspiring environment.
- Restorative Setting: Enjoy the serenity of a beautiful location, allowing you to relax, rejuvenate, and fully immerse yourself in your art.
- Memorable Experience: From breathtaking landscapes to creative workshops, this retreat offers a rich and fulfilling artistic experience.
- Learning: Grab this wonderful opportunity to learn so much from our week long painting experience, deep diving into a range of painting challenges and the watercolour medium under Heidi’s attentive wing to build your knowledge and confidence in this totally addictive art form and challenge.
Additional Information:
- Past Retreats: For a glimpse into previous retreats, check out the video on my YouTube Channel or read the blog post about the 2024 retreat for more insights.
- Questions & Registration: Reach out to Artable at info@artable.com.au for more information, or hit this link to secure your spot.
Join us for a week of painting, exploration, and connection in one of Tasmania’s most enchanting locations. This retreat promises to be a highlight of your artistic journey, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
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MELBOURNE
‘OWL portrait IN watercolour’
3 DAYs NOVEMBER 2025 – BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
OWL Portrait; A 3 Day Painting Workshop
MORE great news MELBOURNE! Youve been asking and were listening as always… so to add to the April opportunity listed above, weve just confirmed another wonderful 3 day workshop for November 2025, exploring a fantastic subject of the OWL in watercolour. What a gorgeous subject this is too, so full of intensity, contrasting softness and remarkable texture. A challenge? Yes it is, but its a wonderful one, and I am going to walk you through the process every step of the way, to show you how it can be done. Whether youre a seasoned artist wanting to refine your work or a keen beginner, theres plenty to learn and enjoy in this focus.
What Will You Learn?
In this intensive workshop, you will:
- Improve your Painting Techniques: Wash, glaze and dry brush, this subject has so much to dip your toes into.
- Work in Layers: Explore the art of layering to create richness and subtle complexity across all areas in our subject.
- Texture & Detail: Explore creating the delicate textures of this subject, from the softness of the feathers to the intense and vibrant eyes of the owl, to really bring your bird painting to life.
- Capture Subtlety In Your Work: Subtlety is key and this is just the subject to practice with. Its intensity, softness, and texture is a perfect exploration of subject and medium.
- Realistic Rendering: Develop skills in realistic bird illustration and rendering, enhancing your overall watercolour technique and bird painting skills.
Why Attend?
- Detailed Instruction: Benefit from in-depth demonstrations and personalised guidance throughout the workshop. I’ll be with you every step of the way to help you achieve a wonderful Macaw Portrait in watercolour.
- Creative Exploration: This workshop goes beyond painting a single bird; it’s about expanding your knowledge of watercolour techniques and bird illustration, and tapping into your creative potential.
- Unplug, Have Fun, Explore and Learn! This needs no explanation, but the social side of face to face workshops is something truly valuable!
Registration:
Ready to take on this exciting painting challenge? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your painting skills, meet like-minded artists, create a wonderful Owl painting of your own and enjoy diving into a week of creativity and artistic growth! This is a completely new workshop opportunity, so hit this booking link to secure your place or email Artable directly to join us. info@artable.com.au
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CANT MAKE A FACE TO FACE EVENT? DONT FORGET MY ONLINE PAINTING TUTORIALS
ONLINE PAINTING TUTORIALS ARE AVAILABLE
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want monthly painting lessons with me…? come and join my Patreon community and get started!
Thats right, you can join my Patreon Community to learn more now too. Its a mutually positive learning community where I will offer a natural history painting lesson (large and small) every month to keep you learning. I also share news there first, reference you can paint from, behind the scenes information, and greater insights into my own work. Its new, but growing and the more it grows, the better I can make it for you. I look forward to meeting you there!
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2024’s painting workshops + retreats ARE NOW CONCLUDED
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concluded events BELOW
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Wow, can you believe were already wrapping up 2023s workshop opportunities and were planning for 2024? I mean, its incredible how time flies but i must say it feels good looking ahead to a year and plans that feel a lot more connected to those more normal times gone by. Year by year, workshop by workshop, balance is being better restored. These years have sure made me think how precious time is and how fast it passes us by more than ever, and there is no time like now to start reaching for those goals you keep putting on the shelf! With this in mind, perhaps 2024 is YOUR time, YOUR year to prioritise your creative pursuits and get those juices flowing! I hope so. If so, why not join me in one of my botanical, bird, natural history, watercolour painting workshops or even join me on a wonderful retreat to get into your creative gear aligned and flowing? Its going to be fun and Im excited to kick off this workshop events blog post for the coming 12 months with you here 😁
so whats on for 2024?
Well its early days in the years planning, but first up comes something very exciting indeed… we are putting the final details together for our first very retreat which is locked in for February. For many months now Gillian at Artable has been working on an incredible new art space, artists hub and retreat/workshop venue, restoring a lovely old pub in the magical north east of Tasmania and its ready to roll. We know everything Gillian does comes with a special kind of energy and attention to detail and I am very confident that the pub will be no different! Actually Ive seen it with my own eyes already and i know its going to be wonderful… Theres no doubt about it.
This venue will bring tutors, students, accommodation, catering and the ridiculous beauty of Tasmania together in one cohesive bliss-bomb for us all to enjoy. I will be one of the first teachers to kick things off with a 5 day retreat, exploring everything from travel adventure to field work, drawing and painting, wine and dine, gorgeous accommodation, learning and growing, social and wilderness… and you simply cant miss out on this! We will be announcing this event very soon so stay tuned, or reach out to Artable and ask to be put on the notifications list for my events. This is definitely one to look forward to! Best still, if were keen for it, we are playing with an even MORE in depth painting experience to follow, enjoying 10 days in this creative paradise with our paint brushes. Cant wait.
So its a simple but exciting start to the years painting workshop events blog post for now but as always, i will add to this in due course, with every opportunity that arises for 2024, news and updates, information, contacts and the links needed to book each event so watch this space! Of yourse you can always reach out to me, Bienarté in Brisbane, or to Artable who I work with every year to find out whats available.
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gold coast
‘NATURE IN watercolour’
5 DAYs OCTOBER 2024 – CONCLUDED
Great news everyone… With my Gold Coast event for 2024 booking out super fast, weve locked in a new painting workshop for the first week in October. This exciting event is over 5 days, deep diving into a multitude of watercolour painting techniques and gorgeous natural history subjects. The specific subjects are yet to be determined, but Im thinking we will cover 2 days of botanicals, 2 days on a small bird and 1 day on a butterfly study, giving you a fantastic cross section of creative challenges and practical learning. I know a lot of students have been asking me to cover botanicals again, so Im really looking forward to this gathering! This workshop delves into all things realistic watercolour and nature, with an aim of improving your painting skills, knowledge, building your confidence and creating practical strategies forward towards improved independent painting.
I believe we will be returning to the same beautiful venue at the Sculptors Society on the Gold Coast which was a fabulous, cozy place to hold our last painting workshop, so Im keen to return again in October. If youd like to jump in on this event, brush up on your existing painting skills, learn something new from scratch, meet likeminded creative people and enjoy a little exhale in your busy schedule playing with the brushes in a beautiful space, let us know – info@artable.com.au or hit this link to read more about this painting event and to book your place
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‘nature STUDIES IN WATERCOLOUR’ – TASMANIA retreat
7 DAYS september 2024 – concluded
15th – 21st September inclusive
I think the best way to sum this special event up is to use the Artable’s description as follows, ‘Calling all nature lovers! Deep in the hills of remote North East Tasmania lies a tiny farming community with a 100 year old hotel that is now Artable’s Australian retreat base. Nature is well and truly begging to be captured in paint down here and you will be combining field trips in nature for inspiration with studio work. Unique lichens and moss grow next to crystal clear streams amidst giant eucalypts and tiny wildflowers known only to this region. Giant eagles soar in the skies whilst little finches dart around the forest floor. This part of Tasmania will speak to every artist on every level. The hotel has been lovingly restored and curated by Artable founder Gillian who has brought together a decade of retreat experience to offer artists their own non-sharing rooms at no extra charge, a huge light filled art studio, a comfortable group lounge complete with Chesterfields and fireplace, daily excursions to visit carefully selected locations to capture the very best natural history paintings. Paired with one of Australia’s most renowned watercolour and natural history artists Heidi Willis, this retreat is not to be missed – join us for an experience like no other’
Back by request after the first retreat concludes, we are really excited to be able to bring this experience to you and feel so confident its going to be something beautifully memorable together. We will spend our days relaxing, connecting, learning. Come and go to the studio as you please, there will be plenty to keep you thinking, exploring, growing and practicing all about natural history drawing, painting and the watercolour medium. If youd like to take a peek into the last retreat, check out this little clip on my YouTube Channel to learn more.
The booking link is in the title above but here it is again for you. Hit the link to book directly or reach out to Artable at info@artable.com.au if you have any questions on this exciting painting event. We shall see you there!
This event is now concluded, but you can read more about this painting workshop and retreat here, watch the recap in this YouTube clip or join us for the experience next time! Booking are now open and the event listing is above ⬆️⬆️⬆️
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melbourne
‘Gouldian finch illustration – watercolour’
3 DAYs FEBRUARY 2024 – concluded
Come along to this beautiful 3 day workshop in Melbourne, exploring the colours, textures and painting techniques to capture this absolutely fabulous subject – the Gouldian Finch with me. This subject has proven to be one of my most popular, and for good reason… so Ive decided to go ahead and offer this to you all in a face to face workshop which is really exciting! Of course, its not just about Gouldian Finches, what we learn in this event will also help you along with all your bird painting challenges. We will discuss materials, work processes and strategies to het you moving forward with bird illustration and the watercolour medium. Hosted by Artable, its set to be a wonderful 3 days together. Places are limited and we expect it will book out quite quickly so jump in, grab your spot, and we look forward to seeing you there! The booking link is in the event heading and image, but you can find out all about this opportunity, and reach out to Artable to secure your place today. 💜
Our Gouldian Finch Painting Workshop was so wonderful. My students did so very well exploring this remarkable subject in watercolour, a tiny explosion of colour and wonderful painting challenge
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‘BIRDS & BUSH IN WATERCOLOUR’ – TASMANIA retreat
6 DAYS FEBRUARY 2024 – CONCLUDED
This event starts 3:30 pm Sunday 4th, concludes 9:00 am Saturday 10th February
Please note this event is now sold out & concluded 🙏🏻
I think the best way to sum this special event up is to use the Artable’s description as follows;
‘Welcome to Artable’s carefully curated Tasmanian space – a quaint 100 year old hotel in the remote north east town of Winnaleah where you enjoy your very own bedroom and bathroom at no extra charge. Everything is included except your flights and art materials and we have made sure that you get a day to travel in and out plus a FULL 5 days in workshop mode with Heidi. Your own beautiful bedroom complete with luxury linens and a plush mattress topper for the best nights sleep. A light filled studio space complete with both table and en plein air easels for your use. Transfers between Launceston (airport or city) and the venue as well as daily excursions to a variety of landscapes.
We have painting days with Heidi Willis to explore the local landscape, collect drawings and to record natural history in this most stunning of regions. Our theme is birds & bush so we will be looking closely at what this incredible region has to discover. At night, we dine by candlelight as our chef prepares Tasmanian fare from locally sourced produce to suit all dietary needs. There are beautiful walks surrounding the hotel to truly experience the beauty of the area before or after class or sink into the Chesterfield couches with a wine or a hot chocolate by the fire instead.
If you are keen to come on your own, don’t worry, we have many people that join us on their own. Please note that if you opt for a shared room (twin single beds) you attract a $400 discount. Some rooms are located on the upper level and include stairs, so please contact us if you have mobility issues. To join us make your $200 non refundable or transferrable deposit via the link to the right. We will be in contact in October to collect the balance. Please note that cancellation fees apply to all Artable retreats as outlined below. We look forward to welcoming you to a wonderful creative holiday’
We are really excited to be able to bring this experience to you at long last and feel so confident its going to be something beautifully memorable. The booking link is in the title above but here it is again for you. Hit the link to book directly or reach out to Artable at info@artable.com.au if you have any questions on this exciting painting event. We shall see you there!
Learn more about this event here
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gold coast
‘kingfisher illustration – watercolour’
5 DAYs march 2024 – CONCLUDED
With the Kingfisher Illustration Melbourne workshop booking out in just a day, and the same being requested on the beautiful Gold Coast, I will be running an extended painting workshop in March exploring this remarkable subject for my Queensland students, and I am super excited about this one! This time, we have 5 days to enjoy the magic that is the kingfisher, and the wonderful watercolour medium. Its all about colour, texture, timing, smart work processes, creating helpful strategy and building confidence, not just for this specific subject, but for small bird illustration, and for you your painting in general. Once again, I will be working with Artable for this workshop event. We do expect this to be a popular one so hit the link, read all about it and talk to Artable sooner than later to secure your place. Im looking forward to working with you all there. What a gorgeous subject to explore 💙
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brisbane
‘small bird illustration – watercolour’
3 DAYs JUNE 2024 – last places remaining
This is a multi day painting workshop in a friendly learning environment, exploring this wonderful medium, craft and creative skill. It’s for those who have a love of nature, watercolour, painting in general, with an eye for detail. If not… come along and learn about the beauty of this too! Don’t be overwhelmed if you’re new as I work with people of all levels so just come along, and Ill help you through the process and get you on track for your own creative journey.
What will I learn?
Using transparent watercolours, you will explore all elements of illustrating a bird subject to produce an intricate bird illustration throughout the workshop. This topic allows you to explore a wide range of critical watercolour painting techniques, dealing with texture, colour, creating low and high sheens in a subject, dealing with feather effects and developing fine details essential for bird illustration. As always, my workshops focus strongly on improving your overall watercolour techniques, with a goal of equipping you with sound knowledge, direction, confidence and strategy to tackle any subject independently following my courses.
Touching on watercolour techniques of washes, the more complex process of glazing (or layers of wash), and the intricate art of dry brushing, you will learn how to manage each of these techniques to create sound foundations to managing this medium well. Through this you will build a healthier understanding and love of watercolour and of this beautiful painting genre.
This event is hosted by Bienarté so get in touch with them or hit this link to book your spot today… Want more than 3 days? Why not stay for the whole 5 days with me in Brisbane this year, adding the coinciding 2 day BUTTERFLY ILLUSTRATION WORKSHOP to the mix.
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brisbane
‘BUTTERFLY illustration – watercolour’
2 DAYs JUNE 2024 – CONCLUDED
From the Bienarté site – ‘This is a two day event held in Brisbane, focussing on butterfly illustration in watercolour. Butterflies are an astounding painting subject to explore and watercolour brings so many wonderful qualities to the table to capture them with. With this come the questions of ‘how do I do it though!?’ and that’s where Heidi comes in! She will walk you through the process and approaches to create a lovely butterfly painting of your own, equipping you with plenty of helpful strategies and knowledge about the subject, and watercolour medium along the way.
What will I learn?
Being such an intricate subject, Heidi will focus quite strongly on dry brushing techniques to create refined, smaller work and detail. The subject/s will be carefully selected and crafted to maximise your exposure, knowledge and learning about this fantastic medium and genre. It’s going to be fun! Butterflies bring colour, texture, symmetry and beauty to the mix, and you’ll be looking at all of these aspects over your painting days with Heidi. Learn, improve, enjoy is the name of the game for this workshop’
This event is hosted by Bienarté so get in touch with them or hit this link to book your spot today… Want more than 2 days? Why not stay for the whole 5 days with me in Brisbane this year, adding the coinciding 3 day SMALL BIRD ILLUSTRATION WORKSHOP to the mix.
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sunshine coast
‘kingfisher illustration – watercolour’
3 DAYs JUNE 2024 – CONCLUDED
This 3 Day watercolour painting event comes by popular demand as my Melbourne and Gold Coast Kingfisher painting workshops book out in record time. Bringing the lesson and this beautiful focal subject to the Sunshine Coast now, we have a new opportunity to come along and explore this exciting challenge once more. If youve already joined me in the first kingfisher events thats no problem at all as we will be deep diving into a completely new kingfisher with completely new learning so if you love this subject and want to learn more, dont miss this event.
What Will I Learn? Its all about colour, texture, timing, smart work processes, creating helpful strategy and building confidence, not just for this specific subject, but for small bird illustration, and for you your painting in general. Hosted by Bienarté once more, im looking forward to a return to the gorgeous Sunshine Coast and working with you all, so hit the link, grab your place and ill see you there before you know it.
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So it has been a wonderful start to the year with plenty of painting fun and learning on offer. With fully booked events so far, im excited to announce these three new opportunities in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Ill be planning some new ones for later in the year, likely Melbourne again… Ill certainly post any updates or new events that come up as soon as I can so stay tuned, get in touch (follow the links provided in each event listing) and if one event feels like a good fit for you, come and join us in the fun!
Want to know other ways to stay in touch and her the news first? Join my Instagram Broadcast Channel or my Patreon Community to stay ahead of the game. Of course, you can always reach out to Artable or Bienarté and ask to be put on the notifications list for my events, or you can reach out to me any time if you have questions too… Ill see you there ⭐️
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CANT MAKE A FACE TO FACE EVENT? DONT FORGET MY ONLINE PAINTING TUTORIALS
ONLINE PAINTING TUTORIALS ARE AVAILABLE
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want monthly painting lessons with me…? come and join my Patreon community and get started!
Thats right, you can join my Patreon Community to learn more now too. Its a mutually positive learning community where I will offer a natural history painting lesson (large and small) every month to keep you learning. I also share news there first, reference you can paint from, behind the scenes information, and greater insights into my own work. Its new, but growing and the more it grows, the better I can make it for you. I look forward to meeting you there!
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scam alert!!!
Sadly, I am seeing cases of ‘people’ trying to sell FAKE workshop tickets to my events at a discounted rate. THESE ARE SCAMMERS. DO NOT CONTACT THEM. Tickets are ONLY sold through event agents noted for each event and will never be onsold in this way, so please take care there, and in general. Im sorry to have to start with this note, but I do not want to see any of you scammed, and its everywhere! Its a barrage of absolutely constant bullshit out there and its really blowing my mind lately…. here at least, youll always find the real deal. I look forward to working with you soon 
You can always find my workshop calendar on the HOME PAGE of my website if you ever do need to find this information again
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