Feedback & pics

We love to make our guests happy and are proud of the fact that many of them keep coming back to travel with us :).

Check out some pictures from past creative experiences:

Fabric of an Island – Iona Art Experience, September 2025

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Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025

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Argyll Impressions Textile Retreat June 2025

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Fabric of an Island: Iona Art Experience May 2025

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Skye Textile Experience April 2025

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Iona Art Experience, Sept/Oct 2024

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Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024

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Hebridean Painting & Wildlife Cruise, June/July 2024

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Sacred Geometry & the Scottish Landscape, June 2024

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Iona Art Experience, May 2024

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Skye Textile Experience, April 2024

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Sense of Place painting experience, Outer Hebrides, August 2023

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Iona Art Experience May 2023

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Skye Textile Experience, Sept/Oct 2022

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Magical Orkney – Orkney Art Experience, September 2022

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Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2022

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The Women’s Travel Tribe Private Tour, June 2022

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Fabric of an Island – Iona Art Experience, May 2022

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Drawing from the Land – Drawing & painting in the Outer Hebrides, April 2022

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Orkney Creative Retreat, November 2021

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Painting & Wildlife Cruise September 2021

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Online Bookmaking Workshop 2021

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Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019

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Outlander Art Experience 2019

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Drawing and painting holiday in the Outer Hebrides 2018

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Other past art experiences

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What our guests say ♥

My second time on Iona with the Wild at Art team. Both times I was astonished by how quickly creativity brought a group of generous welcoming women together. I hope to come back. {Joanne, Australia, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Quite an experience – of getting to know a variety of competent, creative women and to play creatively in a beautiful location & leave energized – and relaxed and ready to see the rest of Scotland. {Deb, Michigan, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Thank you so much for another wonderful week on the magical isle of Iona. I arrived feeling pretty tired but soon I settled into a new rhythm, and I leave feeling rejuvenated, settled in my self, and inspired to continue my creative explorations. {Catrin, England, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Thank you to Ute & Janet for all the creativity and organisation. And for everyone in a lovely group for a peaceful and inventive week. And thank you Iona. {Chris, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Too short a time in a special place with wonderful women. {Ann, Canada, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Thank you for a lovely week of creativity and community. {Margaret, Massachusetts, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

A wonderful experience with a fantastic group of creative women. {Sue. Washington State, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Jedes Jahr ist es wieder eine wundervolle Zeit um sich selber und die Kunst neu zu entdecken. Eine kleine Pause vom Alltag und Stress. See you! {Esther, Switzerland, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

A great experience. I hope I don’t wait another 50 years to come back. {Mandy, Scotland, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

Iona is lovely. Wonderful to meet you all. {Kathleen, Canada, Iona Art Experience, September 2025}

What a wonderful rich introduction to Harris and Lewis! Thank you Ute & Nicky for a well planned trip around the islands. Perfect weather! Excellent company! So sorry it has to end. I can see why one has to return again and again. Cheers. {Maggie, Canada, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Thank you Ute & Nicky – for a wonderful new sense of place and of space and for new connections to friends and light filled horizons. {Marie, Ireland, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Dear Nicky and Ute, Am overwhelmed with inspiration of this place, this experience. Thank you for giving me a starting place on a blank page….truly a sense of place in many ways! Janet XO {Janet, Canada, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Thank you Nicky & Ute – another wonderful visit into a sacred space and opportunities to learn. {Jane, New York, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Dear Nicky & Ute – Thank you for lots of amazing, inspiring experiences. So many impressions to take home and distil over many years. Wee Janet {Janet, Scotland, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Thank you for teaching me that different materials and liquids produce results that can invoke a sense of place. Love Heather {Heather, England, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Many thanks, Ute & Nicky, for creating such a lovely tone! It is a remarkable feat to bring  disparate group of people together and make magic!! XOXO {Mona, Canada, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Ute & Nicky. Thank you so much. It’s been such a lovely inspiring trip. {Sally, Canada, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

Ute & Nicky, Thank you very much for the great organisation, the great teaching, the sensitive day theme showing the wornderful landscape. Be as you are. {Petra, Germany, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2025}

What an amazing adventure this has been. I have so enjoyed my third trip with Wild at Art. The workshops with local artists are special and interesting and not something available with other providers. The days out exploring added history and insight to such a beautiful place, the “Secret Coast” of Argyll. Thank you so much for this magical experience. {Michele, Washington State, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

Incredibly inspiring & incredible fun! Thank you! {Lesley, Scotland, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

Thank you so very much for another amazing adventure here in Scotland! Wonderful teachers & great new techniques to take home & explore further! Lovely ladies and tasty food!! Can’t wait for the next adventure. {Patty, Michigan, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

S’ish ganz toll xi, widr! I chom sicher widr. (I liked it a lot, again! I will definitely come back.) {Irène, Switzerland, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

It has been a remarkable and re-energizing experience, so much fun and sharing. Thank you for introducing me to so many ways to print on textiles and to create my impressions of nature. I loved every day and everyone in this creative retreat. It is hard to leave. I am glad to have so many marvellous memories. {Alison, Canada, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

Dear Ute, Shirley & Kate, thank you for the lovely experience; the workshops, excursions and food were amazing! I’ll definitely be back for more… {Insa, Belgium, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

What a fun time we’ve all had – thanks so much for the great food, the permission to play creatively and all the comradeship. It was lovely to visit a part of Scotland I was unfamiliar with and everything was so well organised. Really loved the pacing of this holiday which allowed plenty of free time to soak it all in. {Maylin, Canada, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

Thank you for a well planned and implemented retreat. Good balance of hands-on workshops and other educational and fun activities. And some free time also. {Eliza, Canada, Argyll Impressions, June 2025}

Dear Ute & Janet, thank you for a wonderful week. Meditative, healing, escaping from life & stress – all I wanted & more. Going home inspired & hopefully able to “loosen up” more! {Susan, England, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Thank you Ute and Janet for an idyllic stay on Iona. everything was of such a high standard – the art encouragement, the art materials, the hotel accommodation and this wonderful location. I wouldn’t change a thing! I look forward to accessing my new ability to play with art. {Nancy, Scotland, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Thank you so much for the creative, supportive experience. I did “let go” – a bit, well, more than a bit. Ute, you organised everything so well, without fuss. You always helped and answered our questions. Janet, thank you so much for your creative ideas and support you gave me. {Janet, Canada, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Thank you Ute & Janet for a deeply thoughtful experience/ process you have guided us through. You made a beautiful & freeing space to explore and dream and activate. I will feel the spirit of Iona & the sensitive & lovely souls who shared this time. {Marilyn, Canada, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Iona –
a wonderful place to be
a wonderful place to be creative
a wonderful place to be myself!
Thank you Janet and Ute for this rich and awesome week. {Annemarie, Germany, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

A wonderful week of creativity with our great teacher Janet and organised by lovely Ute. It was all enhanced by the amazing week of sunny weather and the spiritual aspect of this special island, Iona. Thank you for all of it. I learned a lot and had fun. Loved Islay [dog] too. Lovely group of ladies. {Susan, England, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

What an absolutely spectacular week of creativity with a very lovely, fun group of ladies. Perfect weather in the most beautiful, spiritual place. Iona gets deep into your heart and mind. Learned sp much from Janet and the group. A great start to my journey in Art. {Phil, England, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

A wonderful adventure! Creative, freeing & beautiful! {Tamia, Minnesota, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Ute has a talent for finding wonderful teachers & creating fun, interesting & enlightening experiences! Iona is a special place, made even more so by these Wild at Art experiences. I’m forever grateful for her care & love of art & the people who create it. {Sian, California, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Once again a wonderful week of painting, drawing, lines & shadows and fabulous walks. Janet made me think ‘out of the box’ as usual. Led me off in new directions, such fun and expanding my artwork. Weather amazing as all my fellow artists. {Anne, Scotland, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

I was eager to return to Iona knowing it was a deeply spiritual place, but didn’t know what to expect from the art experience. I was challenged & stretched and ultimately delighted by encouraging and supportive guidance of Janet and Ute. The accommodations were wonderful, the meals inventive and delicious. The walks gave us new perspectives. The people were friendly, interesting and outgoing. Thank you for a magical combination of art and spirituality. {Judy, California, Iona Art Experience, May 2025}

Thank you for such a meaningful and memorable textile experience! The stars could not have aligned more perfectly and everything we did on this trip was beyond expectations and so beautifully curated. I can see all the thought and intention that was put into it.
The intersection between women and craft never ceases to amaze me in the endless source of power it holds. The experience that was put together for us to share in has been overwhelmingly special. It has filled up my soul in so many ways and opened up new pathways that I’m so excited to start exploring. Summer camp for adults! {Cindy, Canada, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

Best trip EVER! Thank you for your time and energy in putting together this perfect fiber adventure. The food and Kate were marvellous, perfect for the body, mind & spirit. I hope our paths cross again. {Linda, Indiana, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

For me, this adventure has been all about nourishment. The crafts and activities have sparked so many ideas for me to use in my work. The sightseeing filled my eyes and heart with the glory that is this magical space. The food fed us with healthy nourishment and the varied menu took us on a world tour. This trip, truly, has been as close to perfection I have ever experienced. Thanks to Ute, Lucy and Kate. {Michele, Washington State, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

The Skye Textile Experience was much, much more than I could have imagined. On all fronts. The exquisite evening meals that Kate prepared, to Ute’s expansive, thoughtfully curated field trips to historical sights, the all encompassing, fully immersive trip was exactly what my soul needed. {Erica, Oregon, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

What possibility could be better than running away from home to the Isle of Skye to immerse oneself in fiber, fuelled by amazing food…with lovely new friends. An experience of a lifetime. Many thanks. {Kathy, Indiana, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

Thank you for a wonderful week! A perfect combination of creativity, delicious food, indulging in the beautiful landscape. This was my third creative experience with Wild at Art and it will certainly not be the last. Such fun to try new things, like weaving and wet felting. {Ulla, Sweden, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

An exceptionally curated experience. So well balanced with depth and breadth. And the company of exceptional women was a wonder. {Kyra, Washington State, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

What a great experience and lovely women. Thanks for the great hosting and creating this textile experience. I am lost for words. I am very grateful. Thank you! {Barbara, Switzerland, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

This has been an incredible experience for me. Being able to participate in all activities has been great as I speak from a beginner’s point of view. And being able to take in the lovely views of this country has been exciting as well. Thank you for organising such a great event and for the delicious food. Many thanks. {Kathy, Canada, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

This experience has been wonderful for me. I have wanted to visit Skye for many years and this was my chance. All of the classes were enjoyable and the variety was excellent. I created lovely things and learned about new textiles. I will see you again in the future! {Julie, Indiana, Skye Textile Experience, April 2025}

We had a fantastic time! We went home and kept weaving in a bid to finish our work while we still had it in our hands. Louise was a delight to spend time with, we hardly noticed the hours going by. The accomodations were excellent, the food was good and the bed was soft! We slept like rocks while we were there. {Anna & Tony, England, private weaving shortbreak with Louise Oppenheimer, February 2025}

Those who come to Wild at Art Scotland will come not once, but several times. {Mona, Norway, Iona Art Experience, Sept/Oct 2024}

Thank you and Danke für eine schöne super inspirierende Zeit. In love {Esther, Switzerland, Iona Art Experience, Sept/Oct 2024}

Thank you for this wonderful week…..dreaming on paper {Catrin, England, Iona Art Experience, Sept/Oct 2024}

Janet’s teaching style is so refreshing. It was very freeing! The exercises were brilliant. The camaraderie was deep and lasting. Iona is so very special. {Danielle, Texas, Iona Art Experience, Sept/Oct 2024}

I will not forget to play and avoid being mean about results. Thank you, Janet. {Marion, Canada, Iona Art Experience}

What an amazingly thoughtful and well planned experience,. Truly capturing the incredibly special place that is Lewis and Harris. Thank you for helping me see a place I love in a new way!! {Alison, Virginia, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

I’ve learned so much ~ I’ll try not to overdo the superlatives. Before every visit to an outstanding site we learned so much about the culture, people, language and land. This gave a solid spiritual dimension to our experience, which informed our artwork. The art materials and tutoring opened up a whole new range of art experiences. The encouragement from our tutor gently pushed us to try new painting methods. I felt every moment and experience was carefully considered and planned – I felt well “cared for”, in the best sense. Throughout our 10 days, I felt a closeness to the land and culture – Dùthchas! Thanks to Ute & Nicky for a fantastic experience. {Ellen, Scotland, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

Wonderful company, amazing places to visit, splendidly organised. The lovely Nicky giving inspiration by quoting poems, describing history and fun facts. Guiding us gently into new art experiences and techniques day by day. I loved the experience, the scenery, the group. Thank you for everything. Dùthchas! I got the sense of place. {Maja, The Netherlands, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

I have so appreciated the spiritual references from literature that help to describe this amazing place. Having a theme each day helped us center and really see and feel our surroundings. And I have benefitted from the new ways of making art and expressing my impressions. {Sara, New Hampshire, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

Sense of Place – What an excellent description. The wandering over the beauty of Scotland – the history still alive – it’s a very inspiring trip which ignites new ways of expression. All excellently organised to the smallest detail. I’ll be back again. {Lesley, Arizona, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

Sense of place
Sense of self
Sense of community
This workshop provided me with time to experience and then express with colour and texture. I leave feeling full and inspired. {Julie, Colorado, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

Sense of Place, an apt description of this workshop. Nicky added to it with the tales and stories she shared with us as we travelled through Lewis and Harris. And the poems she read added so much to my experience of place. She’s a wonderful artist and teacher and I wish I had had more time to work with her. This was my third trip with Wild at Art. Ute does an amazing job organising it all…supplies, excursions, studio time and wonderful instructors. Thank you Nicky and Ute. I will return! I’m going home inspired! {Tamora, Washington DC, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

Lovely holiday full of inspiration! {David, Scotland, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

What a wonderful experience it has been for me as a non artist to join such a talented group of people for this holiday. Amazing locations, stories, poems and history and it made me look at things differently. Thank you so much. {Jean, Scotland, Outer Hebrides, Aug/Sept 2024}

This trip was such a nice variety of people, places and experiences. The independence or not that was available helped enjoyment of it all. Everyone’s ability to enjoy whatever was needed from responding to weather and other reasons made the flexibility of schedule easy. Thank you for your creativity and energy and for finding a good crew and captain and boat too. {Virginia, South Carolina, Hebridean painting cruise Jun/Jul 2024}

A fantastic adventure with Ute and Nicky and great skipper and crew. We have seen puffins, otters sea eagles and deer. Been inspired by Nicky to paint, draw and make. A very special holiday, with like minded people from around the globe. Being at sea requires a flexible and open mind, as you are at the mercy of the elements. {Geraldine, England, Hebridean painting cruise Jun/Jul 2024}

A very enjoyable week visiting different places from the previous small ship trip I made with Wild at Art. Even poor weather did not spoil the experience. I am a traditional painter and not really interested in innovative techniques, but it was not a problem as I would “do my thing” when appropriate. Excellent food and attention by the crew. An impressive ship. {Stewart, Scotland, Hebridean painting cruise Jun/Jul 2024}

The week with this delighful group will always stand out as one of the highlights of my travels. Ute and Nicky are so conscientious about all of the details. I would highly recommend an art holiday with Wild at Art. {Rebecca, Washington, Hebridean painting cruise Jun/Jul 2024}

Thank you for an agreeable and very varied cruise with a lot of painting/drawing, spotting otters, red deer, puffins, seals, guillemots, razorbills etc., and a very good supply of seaweed both for painting and eating. And a very agreeable atmosphere on board. {Astrid, Norway/Germany, Hebridean painting cruise, Jun/Jul 2024}

Thank you so much for an incredible experience in the Sacred Geometry course. The program you provided was wonderfully balanced and varied between visiting local sites and studio time. Thank you for your careful attention to detail and catering to our individual needs. Reni and Melissa were incredible tutors and it was a privilege to work with them. For my first time in Scotland I could not have asked for a better, more stimulating, informative experience. I would eagerly join you on trips in the future again and again and again. Wonderful to have met you. {Maggie, Canada, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

This course was a wonderful balance of learning, touring, studio work and thoughtful creative processing! Every day was a delight! Thank you for keeping everything and everyone on track. It was marvellous! Reni and Melissa are extraordinary and created a lovely rhythm. Thank you! {Janet, Canada, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

What an amazing experience with Reni and Mel! I have looked forward to this trip for so long! I’m so thankful that I was able to come! Ute, you provided an exceptionally curated blend of two very different experiences – one in the studio under the two professional artists and the trips out in the phenomenal Scottish landscapes! Absolutely loved the woodland gardens and the trip to the isle of Easdale. Langoustines on the island was a new culinary delight! Thank you everyone! {Mary Lynn, Virginia, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Thank you for such an amazing and inspiring course. Learning the gelli plate process has opened up a new world to add to my art practice. tutors were superb and patient with us novices! Fabulous time with a delightful group of people in this amazing ancient landscape. Reni and Melissa complemented each other with their differing approaches of geometry and nature. Truly fabulous week. {Anne, Scotland, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

This was a wonderful creative process. Made me think in ways I have not been doing, which was good for my brain. Loved all the studio time we had and the days we spent touring the countryside of West Scotland, especially the island of Easdale. Ute, thank you for putting this all together. Remi Gower and Melissa Potter were truly amazing!! {Victoria, Oregon, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Dear Ute – Thank you for the love and care you take pulling us together and creating a beautiful community. Your patience is unending. your warmth invites us all to feel safe and encouraged to be ourselves. I am so grateful for you and this experience.
Mel and Reni – Thank you for your time and attention. Your warmth and openness made it safe for us to explore. It was so fun to learn, do, travel together. Thank for your hard work which made our work easier.
{Kristel, Oregon, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Thank you for helping us have a wonderful, artistic experience for part of our honeymoon. The thoughtful details and excursions are very appreciated and I enjoyed seeing you again. {Kiri, Minnesota, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Thank you for creating such an amazing experience for my first adventure out of the country. I enjoyed all of the artwork, museums, castles, etc. {Jay, Minnesota, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Dear Ute, this week signified my re-entry into creative community. My thoughts arrive at the intersection of nature, place, and an emerging and sustained creative practice. Thank you for providing this Scotland-based opportunity. I look forward to staying in touch and to sharing ways your hard work has/will impact my life moving forward. {Camilla, Michigan, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Ute, thank you so much for creating this experience. I learned so many new techniques that I am excited to continue practicing. I love how this trip was inspired by nature and that we enjoyed so much time out in the gorgeous Scottish landscape. I hope to join you again for a new experience! {Amy, California, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

I have had a magical adventure on the Sacred Geometry trip. The instruction was fun and new, with both Reni and Melissa providing new perspectives and methods to approach gelliplate prints. Ute outdied herself with a perfect blend of exploration and time to work and relax. We ate like royalty and were treated oh – so – very – well. I had THE BEST TIME! Thank you so much. Michele xx {Michele, Washington, Sacred Geometry, June 2024}

Spending a week with amazing women on the magical Isle of Iona has expanded and opened my art. My grateful thank yous to Ute and Nicky for their encouragement and graciousness. I was also able to spend 5 days at The Studio on the Shore which enabled me to further work on my art. The Studio is a cozy and inspiring space. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity. Thank you Ute, Nicky, Simon, Islay and Cookie. {Lynne, Minnesota, Iona Art Experience, May 2024}

What an amazing experience! I based my UK holiday on this retreat. Having visited this special place many times on day trips, I was lured by the art experience combined with staying on Iona. I experienced a very different feel for Iona by staying there for the whole week. Ute had organised a very full week of art and activities, and if you want time off, there is no problem. Nicky Sanderson was our wonderful art tutor who was supportive and helpful if you required suggestions or inspiration. We had a good group dynamic and had such enjoyable times, and are still in touch with each other. Ute thought of everything, and it was also great having everything provided. I would definitely book another retreat with Wild at Art Scotland. {Jude, Western Australia, Iona Art Experience, May 2024}

This was my second time on the Scottish island of Iona with Wild at Art Scotland and it was worth every minute. The wonderful, rough landscape and impressive nature on a large and small scale give you a peace of mind that you rarely find in everyday life. The journey to the island via Oban, the ferry ride to Mull and the journey across Mull and then finally the crossing to Iona are already highlights of the trip. And many more followed. Ute and Nicky  organized the course and the stay so well and were always available to answer questions. I already loved the feeling of waking up knowing there will be a wonderful breakfast and a cup of coffee without having do do it myself. You can just be yourself and be with your own creative thoughts and impressions of the island for a whole week – a week of creative meditation. This time the course was led by the sensitive artist Nicky Sanderson, who gave many suggestions how to work and be creative. I was particularly impressed by the importance of connections that create works and can be used to work with. The week-long gathering with an international group of art fans did the rest. Again, I came home full of impressions and ideas to work with. {Annemarie, Germany, Iona Art Experience, May 2024}

What a wonderful experience this week has been. Thank you so much for introducing me to so many new techniques and ways to express myself. I could fill this whole book with highlights – from the croft to the peg weaving. Thank you. {Betty, Colorado, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

Dear Ute, Thank you for all your excellent planning and organising this workshop. I looked forward to it with great enthusiasm and I am so glad I came and joined you and all the lovely ladies. Love, Carole. {Carole, California, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

Ute, I am so glad I saw your listing! This was a wonderful experience from start to finish. I got to bring friends and my husband, which enhanced the time even more. The use of the house rather than a hotel brought the opportunity to really get to know and spend time with friends and fellow travelers. It felt like we were at home, not in a foreign country. {Cathy, Colorado, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

Thank you for your patience and willingness to accommodate, cancel, suggest and organise my crazy schedule! Loved the experience, the people, the food, the wildness of Scotland and Skye. I hope to return! Abrazos. Micky {Micky, Virginia, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

S’isch eifach super xi! Merci! It was great for me as a textile addict. {Irène, Switzerland, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

What a wonderful trip! Just loved meeting so many artisans and getting to see their studios and their work. Really an amazing opportunity. {Bonnie, California, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

Ute. This trip was wonderful! I enjoyed seeing the island as well as all the opportunities to learn new things and visit amazing people. The people on this isle are friendly and welcoming. The food was incredible – keep the cook! Many thanks. {Kay, Colorado, Skye Textile Experience, April 2024}

I’m a casual weekend sketchbook artist at best, and more often feel intimidated by a blank sheet of paper than inspired. I don’t know if it was the wild beauty of Lewis and Harris; Nikki’s daily quotes and encouragement to be bold and try something new; being surrounded by a group of creative folks, or maybe it was just having the time and space to experiment, but I have never felt more inspired. The word that I use most frequently to describe Lewis and Harris, and my time there with Wild at Art Scotland is “magical.” It was a time out of time, to just be, and to just be creative. {Kathleen, Washington, Sense of Place, August 2023}

This gathering was special in every way. Of course, the beauty of Lewis and Harris is stunning and “other-worldly”, so inspiration for art and connection is everywhere. Ute and Nicky were warm and welcoming. Nicky was so generous with her attention and skills, as she honored each person’s style and goals. If you are considering this event, do not hesitate. I will not hesitate to be a repeat attendee! {Kristina, North Carolina, Sense of Place, August 2023}

The holiday was a dream come true for me to see the wonderful isles and to be inspired by the captivating landscape that nourished my soul and was so healing and peaceful. There was a lovely balance of time spent in the studio and time out touring. I sometimes found that there wasn’t enough time in the studio (but that’s just me and becoming so involved with my art process and forgetting the time!).

I found the team to be very supportive and helpful and kind and nobody lost patience with the many occasions when I couldn’t quite hear.

Nicky was a wonderful and intuitive tutor. I loved exploring new, unknown of, artistic techniques and materials under her tutoring and fell in love with walnut ink and being introduced to Quink!

It was all a truly wonderful and unforgettable experience, even the rain and wind! {Joanna, England, Sense of Place, August 2023}

It was such an amazing week on Iona. I thoroughly enjoyed the anticipation of getting there, the first glimpse of the abbey from the ferry, the peace and quiet of the island, and the palpable feeling of the history of the place. The art experience, under Janet’s very capable leadership, was thought-provoking, inspiring, and freeing. And, of course, the like-minded “tribe” of participants wrapped up the whole week in a great big bow. Taking the leap to attend was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Thank you for all your thoughtful hard work in putting it together. {Pat, New Hampshire, Iona Art Experience, May 2023}

Thanks for a great art week – I absolutely loved it! I learned so much and met so many wonderful people that it’s hard to put into words. It certainly inspired my art journey and my creative juices have been flowing since I got back home. It was wonderful to see the array of styles and to hear others ideas and journey with others for a week in the beautiful setting on Iona. I also found it fascinating to explore abstract art and I have become much more interested in abstract than I was before I came to Iona. So, great facilities, lovely setting and people and also great to have so many resources at hand. Loved being encouraged to go larger and not to confine my art or style. You and Janet were simply a lovely duo to work alongside and I have many happy memories as well as a new found freedom and confidence in my approach to art. {Carole, England, Iona Art Experience, May 2023

It was an amazing, thought provoking and inspiring week. I loved every minute of it. Janet is amazing and the group was terrific. Thank you, Ute, for putting it all together. {Tamora, Washington, Iona Art Experience, May 2023}

It was a spectacular week! Thank you again for making it happen! And to Janet for bringing her magic too! {Lilly, Tennessee, Iona Art Experience, May 2023}

The Wild at Art Skye Textile Experience was, hands down, the best tour that I’ve ever taken! The entire tour was crammed with entertaining and informative hands-on fiber arts activities — which were everything I had hoped for. But, beyond that, I was absolutely blown away by the opportunity to learn so much about the natural and cultural history of Skye. You kept us busy (not to mention, well fed)! Our guides (you two) were wonderful, and the other participants were also all delightful people. I loved every minute of it! {Pat, North Carolina, Skye Textile Experience, October 2022}

My second experience with Wild Art Scotland was a textile workshop to Isle of Skye in October 2022. It was the first of its kind to this destination and I am impressed how well the itinerary was organized and how many opportunities we had to actually experiment on doing samples and learning different techniques ourselves. I recommend this Wild Art Scotland experience to all who want to get immersed in the craft whilst also enjoy touring around the spectacular Isle of Skye. {Lilian, Sweden, Skye Textile Experience, October 2022}

What a fantastic creative fiber experience this past week! Not only were there numerous fiber techniques to explore and learn but having a full immersive Isle of Skye lifestyle and history experience too. With a small group we were able to get to know and learn from each other. We all had a penchant for fiber and Wild at Art did not disappoint. Weaving, spinning, visiting working crofts, felting and yarn shopping sure kept us busy. And we still managed to see the beauty of Skye, visit castles, museums, listen to storytellers and visit distilleries. They also had wonderful meals (and deal with my dietary needs!). Thank you Ute and Lucy for a perfect balanced week! {Patty, Michigan, Skye Textile Experience, October 2022}

It is almost impossible not to be creatively inspired by a place as magical as Orkney – great destination choice for an art holiday! What made the trip extra special, however, were the people and a perfect venue. Everyone from Wild at Art and the Kristin Linklater Centre genuinely went out of their way to ensure our comfort and best holiday experience, which was added to by some lucky late summer sunshine! Such a great adventure, thank you! {Brigitte, Germany, Magical Orkney, September 2022}

Orkney’s Wild at Art was wonderful this year. I loved the spectacular Linklater center with its 360° hilltop view of the surrounds. Having a studio at the same location made access to art materials easy. Rena was beyond fabulous. She had so many stories of Orkney history which lent a personal touch to our excursions. My favorite field trip was to Rackwick Beach on Hoy with it’s enormous rock eggs.

Leo was a wonderful teacher and guide. His knowledge of local birds was impressive and his teaching style was relaxed with a great sense of humor.

I’m so glad I finally made the trip to the Orkneys. It truly is an amazing place. {Cheryl, Ohio, Magical Orkney, September 2022}

This was my second trip with Wild at Art and I, again, had an incredible time! The tour was well paced — no super early mornings or rushing from place to place — with time for painting/sketching at each site visited plus in-studio time to refine pieces and get some creative inspiration from our tutor and fellow travelers. I hadn’t painted in a very long time and this was just the gentle nudge I needed to get going again. The accommodations and food were excellent, and I’m already hoping to join another trip next year! {Beth, Oregon, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2022}

I feel I have made life long artistic friends in the Wild Art Scotland class. Nicky Sanderson was amazing, Her love of the Hebrides I think transferred to all of us. Her gentle input when working with us was great. I found her suggestions ‘spot-on’. The coordination was seamless, getting us from one site to another. Nicky and Ute were so professional and kept us informed on each step/location. The accommodations wonderful, the people were so kind and welcoming. I would have loved even another “studio day”. I am not that fast at plein air painting.This was an excellent challenge for me. What a magical place, I would do this class again! {Danielle, Texas, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2022}

For me, it was a good balance between traveling from location to location and staying at the individual location. Nicky’s guidance and tireless sharing of knowledge and history made the experience richer than I expected. For me, it gave something extra that you were on the trip, Ute. I have never experienced the director to engage during the itinerary as you did. The group dynamic is a big plus for the overall experience.

I have learned that I can stand on my own two feet even if I regard myself to be in the beginning of my artistic development, that I have established a repertoire to draw upon, with methods and tools to approach the environment I am in. Admittedly, it took some time to get there. The breakthrough came when we were at the Calanish standing stones.

Now I have a full sketchbook. The next step is to realize the sketches into paintings on a canvas. And a luxury problem, choosing from which sketches to develop further into paintings. I will always look back to this trip as a breakthrough when it comes to what I want to focus on further in my artistic development. {Mona, Norway, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2022}

My expectations were to experience the wonderful landscapes of the Outer Hebrides and develop my painting style to be more free and semi abstract. I was delighted with the creative experience which greatly exceed my expectations. “ Sense of Place “ was the theme of the painting holiday and I really had that experience every day – great result. Extremely well organised with excellent accommodation and meals – I managed to eat well every day but did not put on any weight much to my surprise! Everyone on the trip got on well and fully participated. The choice of locations worked well and we had just enough time to sketch or paint which was quite short which ensured a freer and more immediate style which really suited me. Nicky’s commentary in the bus while travelling to the various location was excellent and really gave a “Sense of Place”. The duration was just about right: a week would be too short and two weeks too long – well judged”! Absolutely no criticisms.

Nicky led the demonstrations and tutoring with her usual friendly, supportive and respective manner. I have my own views on what I wanted to do and the manner in which I wished to paint. Nicky knew from a previous trip to the Inner Hebrides that I have quite conservative views on what material I would use to paint and respected that view but I did paint with peat based paint on the last day! I received well-judged advice from time to time which was always “spot on” but was otherwise left to my own devices which worked well for me.

A wonderful experience! {Stewart, Glasgow, Sense of Place, Outer Hebrides, August 2022}

The workshop with Louise was fantastic. We loved the whole experience, the practical aspect of the workshop covered any level of experience. We were delighted to get frames and wool so that we could complete our weaving at home. Louise was comfortable to be around and she made us very welcome in her beautiful workspace. {Denise, Scotland, Private weaving shortbreak with Louise Oppenheimer, August 2022}

Both accommodation and workshop were extremely welcoming, friendly and relaxed.

Jen made us feel welcome and at ease with her excellent people skills and most fabulous lunches. Good advice on restaurants, nice chats and we played a game together. Accommodation very clean, private and beds very comfortable.

Louise was absolutely fantastic. She adapted the course to the skills and interests of my girls and bonding with them. Interesting conversations. Great guidance, excellent teaching. Lots of personal attention. Fabulous and endless supply of homemade cakes. Nice to have a peek into her life as an artist. Location, her work and atmosphere of her studio interconnected with the natural surroundings.
Everything exceeding my greatest hopes for a relaxing break.

{Michele, Private weaving shotbreak with Louise Oppenheimer, August 2022}

I was fortunate to enjoy an art experience and tour of Scotland in June 2022 led by Ute. Things were organized but always flexible with the needs of our group well considered. I would highly recommend Wild At Art to anyone who wishes to enjoy a stress free journey through beautiful Scotland! {Karen, Maryland, The Women’s Travel Tribe Private Tour, June 2022 (via Facebook recommendation)}

Just got back from a travel adventure led by Ute from Wild at Art in Scotland. I cannot recommend her enough! The choice of arts activities as well as the sightseeing and hotels and meals.
Just go! {Beverley, New York City, The Women’s Travel Tribe Private Tour, June 2022 (via Facebook recommendation)}

I booked my experience with Ute and Wild at Art because I sensed it truly offered the magic it promised. I was eager to grow and connect with nature, to seek out something greater while doing something I loved in a quiet place that remembered simpler times. I had no idea that connection would become a communion or what that communion would reveal to me. In my work as a fiction writer and illustrator, I am always expressing someone else’s story. You can find me here and there hidden between the lines, but I’m never the big picture. On Iona, I was encouraged to draw and paint from within myself, guided by my own instincts and feelings. I struggled; expressing myself and sharing like that isn’t in my nature and I was also afraid to confront my own pain. For so long, I had just been painting over it. And before my trip, I thought I could go on like that. But during my experience I learned that all life is art, including my own. And if it isn’t turning out the way I dreamed, I don’t have to throw it away. I can transform it. It can feel beautiful again. I can love it again. I can love myself again.

This trip is one I will always hold dear. Thank you, Ute and Janet.

{Alaina C. Ewing, Florida, Iona Art Experience May 2022}

Iona was my second holiday with Wild at Art Scotland, and I am already thinking about a third next year.

If you want a painting holiday where someone tells you what to paint and how, don’t go on this trip. If you on the other hand are after inspiration and relaxation, to spend a creative week in a beautiful spot, walk and immerse in the landscape, have an inspiring tutor who will help you to find new ideas and think out of the box, then this is perfect!

Also very well organized and plenty of delicious food. {Ulla, Sweden, Iona Art Experience May 2022}

Really I don’t know where to start – it was such a fabulous holiday, with such a wonderful group of people in a magical place. All your details were so carefully organised and thought about, Janet was an incredibly inspiring, creative guide and tutor who very successfully curated a safe space for us to play in and connect with our inner child. In short – I loved it and came home with a smile on my face and deep warmth in my heart. I feel as if something opened up inside me and the beautiful Iona light has flooded in. {Elinor, England, Iona Art Experience May 2022}

The art experience surpassed my expectations by far. Ute is a very warm hearted and thoughtful guide. The locations were chosen perfectly and the artist, Ellis O’Connor, did a terrific job on encouraging us to loosen up and go wild! 😀 A week I wouldn’t want to miss. {Karin, Germany, Outer Hebrides April 2022}

I honestly only have good feedback. I think Ellis O’Connor was a very inspired choice for art tutor – she really managed to coax us out of our artistic comfort zones. Apart from being an obviously well respected and accomplished artist, it helped enormously that she was such a lovely likeable person and that she had lived on North Uist, so could show us all the best spots. I learnt a ton, so much, and am very grateful. For me, this was not an inexpensive trip but I can say now that I think it was really worth every cent. The trip was well planned and the accommodation was great. So glad I did this! {Barbara, Scotland, Outer Hebrides April 2022}

It was a great and stimulating trip. Makes me just want to spend every day drawing, painting and being otherwise creative! I know from experience that it was down to Tony the Captain and not co-incidence that we slept in calm waters every night, and none of us was sick any time — I am very grateful for that!
Thanks to all of you for your company, friendship and encouragement. {Louise, Orkney, Painting & Wildlife Cruise, September 2021}

I loved, loved, loved the workshop. So fun to connect with others from around the world, and to learn a new skill. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow. So glad I participated, and really look forward to another great experience someday in Scotland. {Pat, USA, Online Bookmaking Workshop, June 2021}

Back home after a lovely weaving break. We have taken photographs and I will forward something soon. Our B&B hosts were WONDERFUL!  And as for the weaving! What can I say – Louise was a wonderful teacher and we have both come home inspired, with wool!!!! {Pam, Scotland, Private weaving shortbreak with Louise Oppenheimer, June 2021}

“Thank you so much for this wonderful workshop! I really enjoyed to make my own refillable sketchbook! 🙂
The tutorials are very clear, so that also a person like me with more or less school english is able to understand almost all. 🙂
I am very happy with my book! It is covered with a form-colour-sketch from the Faroe Islands and inside I worked with a card I had printed from one of my paintings showing a village on the Faroe Islands. …
My son already ordered a book with/in Dobby(Harry Potter)-style.” {Annemarie, Germany, Online Bookmaking Workshop, June 2021}

” I went as a complete novice in any painting and was accompanied on the course by two other experienced painters. Liz was great, she offered support when I asked and encouraged me, but she let me get on with it without looking over me. She had a suitable light touch and she also acknowledged it as a holiday and let us have time out. We were treated like guests rather than customers. My family were amazed when I showed them my paintings for the week. Lovely accommodation too and thoroughly recommended” {Chris, UK, Summer Landscape oil painting retreat in Galloway, June 2021}

My aunt and I had a great experience with Wild at Art, from the accommodations, to our 2-day painting course, to the fresh food and meals out. The Scottish landscape, particularly the area our shortbreak introduced to us – Culcreuch Castle, Fintry – was definitely worth painting!
We so appreciated the personalization Wild At Art provided based on the hopes my aunt and I had for our experience, for example not knowing what painting medium we wanted to use, so providing all the options. Our instructor Katherine accommodated both my aunt’s interest in a beginner’s painting crash course, and my pursuit of open experimentation. We both left happy.
Thanks for a wonderful time, we’re eager to return! {Laura, New York City, Private painting experience with Katherine Cowtan, October 2019}

Cutting edge art experience at the edge of the world! {Anne, Paris, Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019}

Our tour was truly gold star level! One of the most incredible experiences of my life! I’ve traveled extensively and the accommodations, activities, and education were superb! If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I recommend Wild at Art! {Virginia, California, Outlander Art Experience 2019}

The Outlander-inspired excursion was one of the most moving experiences I have ever done. It was not simply hit all the spots and say we had been there thing. The trip blended the initial focus of visiting the Outlander locales with a deep appreciation of the astounding culture and amazing history of this beautiful land with hands-on experiences and the opportunity to express the emotions and experience with artwork and journaling. I connected with some amazing new friends and learned much about a region I plan to visit again. {Celia, Minnesota, Outlander Art Experience 2019}

Thank you Ute & Nicky for such a heartfelt introduction to Lewis & Harris! {Deborah, Wisconsin, Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019}

Really a superb experience of a gorgeous part of the world. Kind & comfortable accommodations, good food. Wonderful teacher, Nicky, and Ute who supported and ran the show. What else can you ask for? {Rose, Oregon, Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019}

I loved the Outlander Art Experience. We saw all the obvious Outlander locations and many more. We learned about the Jacobites and Scottish Folklore and Printing and 18thC Herbal Medicine. It was outstanding! Wild at Art Scotland will give you a unique look at the scenery and history of Scotland and you will have such a great time you will be anxious to return. {Diana, California, Outlander Art Experience 2019}

The arrangement, program and your presence were perfect to allow for me to just be and reach the creative space. Combination Ute & Nicky is exquisite, professional, flexible, caring. {Lilian, Sweden, Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019}

Are these not the rain blessed Hebrides?
Where stones rein and trees struggle in vein?
Where the weather forecast is always the same?

The simple everyday pleasure is wandering on the machair,
hugging stones, absorbing colors, searching purple linings in the horizon
whilst sipping raindrops from our lips.

Art has neither end nor beginning.
Brush strokes neither start nor finish.
And the universe remains there waiting….
for our brains to meet it’s infinity in color.

I shall never forget the shared desire
to paint and explore together.
In this place where we created a world in a world,
where we helped each other to see.

We came with the plane
and went with the rain,
trusting that the stones, peat, gneiss and rain
will always remain.

Lilian, Stockholm

Had a wonderful tour of Scotland & “Outlander” filming locations, with time to sketch, draw and paint. Informative workshops in printmaking and herb lore, as well. The best part of traveling with Wild at Art was meeting new friends and becoming part of a group with common interests, love of learning and joy of camaraderie. I highly recommend this tour group for travels through Scotland! {Maura, Connecticut, Outlander Art Experience 2019}

The Outlander Art Experience surpassed my expectations in so many ways. The locations were well chosen, and everything was very organized. The entire trip was amazing as well as educational from learning about herbs, learning new art techniques, and soaking up some Nicky’s vast knowledge of Scottish history and culture. I actually would repeat this very same experience. Ute and Nicky are the best. {Henrietta, Georgia, Outlander Art Experience 2019}

Wonderfully planned- a great way to see and learn about many exciting locations in the beautiful land of Scotland! So much to see- everything was an inspiration for art and memories. We were well-cared-for. Highly recommend Wild at Art! {Kirsten, Minnesota, Outlander Art Experience 2019}

I continue to return to my time in Edinburgh, the lessons and locations, by my sketches and paintings, pleasantly reminiscing on what a wonderful experience it was. {Don, California, tailor made watercolour painting experience with Leo du Feu, June 2019}

Lots of inspiration. Beautiful outings and sightseeing. Good company. {Karin, Denmark, Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019}

Extraordinary beautiful scenery, inspiring teacher, very well organised. {Ulla, Sweden, Lewis & Harris Art Experience 2019}

If someone asks me “should I go on this holiday?” I’ll say “absolutely!” {Penny, Australia, on the Lewis & Harris art holiday 2018}

I very much appreciated both of you – your thoughtfulness, attention to detail, flexibility and knowledge. {Cynthia, Canada}

This was my best holiday in Scotland (I often go there). Very good hotels and food, great places to paint. It was wonderful how Wild at Art looked after us – they were helpful, warm and personal. The artist gave good support and many new ideas. I hope I’ll get a trip with Wild at Art next year. {Birgit from Berlin, Germany}

The best bits about my Wild at Art experience? – Ellen, Scotland, Susan [Winton], villages, castles, sea, lovely fellow painters. {Lynne from Toronto}

I enjoyed my first experience with Wild at Art very much. Everyone was so friendly and we had lots of fun. {Mary from Leicestershire}

For me, stone carving was always a secret dream — a mysterious craft, something only true artists could achieve: liberated, initiated people who had chosen their vocation courageously, rising above the petty fears of average people like me, who preferred to be on the safe side of life with a regular income and insurances for all sorts of mishaps in life. So I thought. {Birgit from Dueren, Germany}

I feel I’m at the verge of an addiction {Julia from East Lothian, Scotland, about how much she enjoyed the stonecarving course…}