Wild at Art
Creative Experiences in Scotland
Inspired by the Galloway Landscape
Oil painter Elizabeth Gilbey runs painting retreats in the lush countryside of Galloway. The studio and accommodation are located on a working farm. Together with two of her latest paintings she sent these words which give you a flavour of the experiences she offers. We still have a few spaces available for 4-11 May and 6-13 July.
The painting experience is very much back to nature. Being outside and painting a scene from life is by far the best way to achieve great results and to appreciate nature. We will be in the heart of George Henry Country, in fact we boast a hill which could have been the model for Henry’s famous picture “A Galloway Landscape”.
Many types of scenery are within a short drive of the studio, much is right outside the door: hills, forest, pasture with animals and the coast is nearby. The experience is completely immersive and guests can carry on perfecting their work inside if the weather or light becomes difficult. The studio lighting is designed to adjust to imitate the natural light. Galloway light and lush greenery makes the area ideal for painting as well as towering clouds and brilliantly clear blue skies.
Outdoor sorties are best with a flask and snack to keep keen artists energised. The wildlife regularly puts in an appearance, with deer, hares, kites and buzzards as well as many song birds. The Sky Larks are currently in full voice on the hills near the studio. In May the bluebells are at their best.
Find out more about Elizabeth on her profile page.
Photography workshop breaks in Highlands Perthshire
Now ready for booking: our new photography short breaks with Dave Hunt from Wildgrass Studios in Glen Lyon. Why not treat yourself or your special people to this inspiring experience? Find out more and enquire about your preferred dates.
Scots Song Singing Workshop with Robyn Stapleton: New Non-Residential Option
For those singing enthusiasts who live locally or have already arranged accommodation for their visit to Edinburgh this October, we’ve just released some on-residential spaces on our workshop with Robyn Stapleton. Discover Scotland’s rich musical heritage on our new singing event with tutor Robyn Stapleton, one of the country’s most respected folk singers. Join in to learn a wide repertoire of traditional Scottish songs and discover the stories behind them.
Be uplifted by a shared joy for singing!
The event will run from 7 to 10 October 2019 in Edinburgh. Each of the four half day workshops has a different theme, and on the last evening we’ll get together with local singers and musicians for a Sing Around in a pub. The package also includes a guided city walk led by singer and blue badge guide Robin.
Find out more
Roads less travelled….artist Lesley Banks on TV
Scottish artist and Wild at Art tutor Lesley Banks appeared on TV last night in a travel programme about some of Scotland’s most impressive wild places. In Roads Less Travelled: Atlantic Way outdoors man Cameron McNeish journeys up the western seaboard from the Mull of Kintyre to Mallaig. Travelling on foot, by bike, by pack-raft and with his beloved campervan, his journey takes him over 200 miles through some of our most impressive wild places. Along the way, he meets an artist, a storyteller and a ghillie.
The artist is Lesley Banks, who was Scottish Canals’ first Artist in Residence and walked and painted along the 137 miles of the beautiful Scottish canal network.
We can create a tailor made art experience with Lesley for you and your companions. Check out her profile here.
The programme Roads Less Travelled: Atlantic Way can be viewed on BBC iPlayer for 29 days (click on the title to view).
Scottish Islands Explorer magazine recommends Wild at Art
“The creative aspects of travel and application of the skills of art lay the foundation for transformative experiences through visual sensations and that sense of place.”
We were delighted to learn that Scottish Islands Explorer was going to publish a full page article on our small group art holidays! It’s the only magazine devoted to exploring the islands of Scotland and serves a readership of Scotland-lovers across the globe. The article appeared in the November/ December issue so flagging it up here is long overdue!
“Here is an organisation well aware that the personal touch matters when people gather to learn and holiday. “
Find out more about the magazine here.
Experience Scotland…the artful way
Scotland is a unique country with locations of breathtaking beauty. But did you know it also has an incredibly vibrant creative scene? With many talented artists who are also inspiring tutors?
It’s been widely recognised that travel – particularly travelling abroad – can increase your levels of creativity and cause an uptick in your mind’s ability to produce positive thoughts, leading you to a more inspired version of you. So, rather than wait until you return from your Scottish vacation, why not start creating and pick up new skills while you’re here?
We offer you the opportunity to work alongside some of the country’s best artists and explore Scotland in a truly authentic way with their guidance.
Creative travel is so much more than just a vacation. Creative travel with Wild at Art means
> finding creative inspiration in Scotland’s landscapes and cityscapes
> developing your skills or learn new ones
> getting up close and personal with artistic talent
> being in the company of like-minded spirits
> finding that creative flow which is at the same time energising and relaxing, while we take care of the rest
> taking home art made by you.
Browse our website and be inspired for your next trip abroad! Use the Wish Form to tell us how your ideal art holiday shall look…
