New Sketchbook Retreat - Portugal 2025
Earlier in the year, I taught an art retreat at Sofia in Monsaraz, and had an absolutely magical time. Both myself and participants loved the venue, the spectacular scenery and the wonderful food and wine. The whole experience was incredible. So I am very very excited to say that I will be going back next year! I will be returning to Sofia In Monsaraz next April, which means we will be there for wildflower season! The retreat will run from 24-28 April 2025 and is open for bookings now.
It’s hard to describe just how incredibly beautiful it is, there is carpets of wildflowers, stunning scenery, and total peace and tranquility, the only sound is the singing of birds. It really is a very special place, and I’m so excited to lead another retreat here. We will be working in our sketchbooks and focusing on painting from life, taking inspiration from the incredible scenery. The mornings will be studio sessions, in the purpose built studio, focusing on skills like colour mixing and colour theory, capturing tone and value, loosening up and using mixed media. In the afternoon will be putting together what we’ve learnt and drawing on location around the retreat centre, taking inspiration from the stunning scenery. This retreat is perfect for both complete beginner and more advanced artists looking to recharge their creativity. You will leave full of inspiration, creative confidence and with a whole group of artist friends from around the world.
Lunches will be held in the beautiful courtyard at the retreat centre, and dinners will be in local restaurants, giving us a chance to see more of the nearby village and castle. There will also be a wine tasting session and an outdoor yoga session. Last year this retreat completely sold out, so if you would like to attend, I would recommend registering your interest sooner rather than later. There’s nothing to pay until the end of the year and payment is in two instalments. You can find the full details about costs accommodation and logistics here on the website.
Testimonials
"I’m a bit lost for words on how transformational this retreat has been for me. It’s been an honour and privilege to learn from such an amazing and yet humble artist such as Emma. Her guidance, feedback, lessons, tips and tricks have been invaluable, she’s helped me overcome my fear of producing art, my main objective for coming on this retreat, moreover she’s highlighted my love for creating art! I’m very excited to bravely embark on the next chapter of my art journey once I return. She’s giving me the toolset to overcome failures and produce work that I’m proud of!"
"It’s been an honour to learn from Emma in person, I can hardly express my gratitude for the knowledge she has shared, the spark to draw and paint has been reignited!"
“Your instruction and guidance had a huge impact on how I approach my art. I can say it absolutely “unlocked” me so now I feel more confident painting what I wish. It’s not until the retreat that I’ve felt so close to my own creativity”