Art Retreat
Sharpen and improve your knowledge and skillset in watercolour immersed in the beautiful grounds of Westcott Barton
Friday 2nd June - Monday 5th June 2023 (Painting Days 3rd & 4th)
Devon, England, UK
Watercolours - All abilities from beginner to advanced are welcome.


Stay at Westcott Barton retreat and join Tom for 2 days of painting.
Tom will hold a 2 day workshop at the retreat, painting in the beautiful and extensive grounds of Westcott Barton.
The 95 acre estate will not fail to inspire any artist. At the heart of the retreat will be learning to look at and interpret the world around us as artists; and then having fun translating this into sketches and watercolour paintings.
These two days are aimed at watercolourists wanting to get the best out of this medium when working outside and from life.
We will be focusing on the 4 key principles of composition, tone and colour & edges, as well as the essential elements of paint consistency and colour mixing.
Tom will give a variety of short demos to show these principles in action.
Whatever the subject, one of Tom’s real loves is looking for the light, so this will be a central theme too.
Guided one on one time will be an opportunity to focus on developing each students own painting.
The aim is to be out in the garden and grounds, however if the weather is really against us, or for those who may prefer it at times, there is a fantastic studio space.
Overview
Upon arrival on the Friday afternoon, at around 3pm, you will be greeted by the team at Westcott Barton.
To kick the retreat off the rest of the afternoon will be spent settling in and getting to know the rest of the group and tutor; as well as a short introduction and demonstration from Tom before a group dinner.
Breakfast will be served at 8.30am and students will then gather in the studio at around 9.30am.
Tea, coffee and biscuits are freely available to help yourself to during studio sessions.
Lunch will be served at 1pm with afternoon tutorials commencing from 2-5pm, followed by a group dinner at 6.30pm.
Our courses are limited to 10 participants per retreat to ensure your tutor has the ability to provide you with personal advice and support during your time here
Painting Media
Watercolours
Skill Level
All abilities from beginner to advanced are welcome.
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Equipment
Students will need to bring all of their own equipment.
Tom is very happy to advise in detail on all aspects, including colour choices and what to expect, via email or over the phone.
As a general overview you will need your paints, brushes, palette, water pot, kitchen roll and something to paint on
Tom likes to work on watercolour gummed blocks: easy to carry, easy to use on a lap or board. Tom would also recommend a sketch book, plus pencils and rubber. Plus any other sundries and a camera can be useful bonus (all though so many of us have phones with great cameras!).
Depending on how you like to work, you might require some extras and sort of standing easel, tripod or pochade box to work on. Some people like to work on their laps, especially with watercolour and sketching.
You may also want to bring a foldout stool or chair if you prefer to work sitting down.
All in all have a think about how you like to work.
Tom can be contacted to discuss and advise regarding equipment and materials via: tom@tomshepherdart.com or 07980 611 267.
This Weekend includes:
- 3 nights’ accommodation
- Evening meals on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
- Breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday
- Breakfast before departure on Monday at 10am.
Cost of Course
INTRODUCTORY OFFER
Single occupancy in secure room: £485.00 per person. Located in a shared building and amenities.
Shared twin room: £440 per person (minimum booking for two). Sharing with a friend or with another guest looking to share a room. In either case, both individuals are participating in the retreat.
Non-participating partners sharing a course participant's room are welcome: £335 per person and includes meals. This option is subject to availability
To Book, please visit the link below or contact:
T: +44(0)1271 813206
M: +44(0)7831 235 640
E: enquiries@westcottbarton.co.uk
Westcott Barton
Middle Marwood
Barnstaple
North Devon
EX31 4EF



