France, September 2025

Something serendipitous happened and I wanted you to be amongst the first to hear about it. Even though my plans for 2025 included just one art retreat in Europe, an irresistible opportunity presented itself recently.

Les Plus Beaux Villages de France

The opportunity was dates opening for an art retreat in France’s beautiful Dordogne region. This is a perfect setting for a ten day long event in the countryside, on the outskirts of the medieval town of Gourdon. This village is one of the designated Most Beautiful Villages of France, where you’ll find a castle dating back to the 9th century.

Too good to resist

I have been in discussions with Perigord Retreats about 2027 dates, but a rescheduling of another teacher’s retreat has now created a window of opportunity, with dates from 9-18 September. These fit perfectly with my program and plans for the end of summer. 

Let’s escape for a while, make space for creativity and calm.

September is a perfect time to enjoy the last balmy days of the French summer. We’ll be spending days getting creative, with outings to medieval towns, gastronomic experiences and trips exploring the scenic Occitania region in Southwestern France.

Our Hosts

Perigold Retreats are happy to accommodate smaller groups of between seven and twelve people. Accommodation is in two properties on their five acre farm with a dedicated studio space and an indoor swimming pool. Food is locally sourced and prepared with typical French flair. 

Art Program 

I’ve devised a program that’ll make best use of our surroundings and  the retreat’s longer than usual timetable, this will allow us to take our time and work at a slower pace. The focus will be on semi-abstract, expressive landscapes with some floral inspiration thrown in. We’ll explore colour moods in a variety of water-based media with and incorporate drawing and layering. 

This retreat offers an indulgent escape from the manic world we live in. 

Tempted?

If this sounds like something you’d love to be part of please let me know soonest. The idea of spending time with a group of creatives in this scenic part of France is something I relish. Add a good dollop of culture and cuisine plus delicious French wine, how could one resist?

Here are the details:

  • Dates are 9-18 September 2025 and the venue is Perigold Retreats.

  • Travel suggestions would be to fly or Eurostar into Paris, stay overnight then catch one of the regular trains to Gourdon, a journey that’ll allow you appreciate the changing countryside as you enter the heart of the Perigord region. You’ll be collected at the station by Harrison, the owner and one of the hosts at the retreat venue.

  • Retreat includes:

    • Accommodation and transportation to and from the station at Gourdon.

    • All excursions

    • Meals, apart from two lunches and two dinners whilst out and about. 

    • A selection of art supplies will be provided, and a list for specific materials for you  to bring along will be shared soon.

  • Excluded are travel cost of your journey to France up to the arrival point at Gourdon.

Sounds like something you’d like to be part of?

For more information and pricing please visit the dedicated page on the Perigold Retreats website.