Residential Art Holiday
Join us for a week of exploring all things watercolour in the Vézère Valley.
17th - 24th September 2024
The Art Course: Introduction
Come and join Christine Forbes in this beautiful part of France to explore all things watercolour. This course is designed for anyone who has some watercolour experience and enjoys (or would like to try) painting outside. During the week Christine will guide you on everything from simple observational drawing through to exciting wet watercolour, and will encourage, demonstrate and nurture your creativity allowing your own personal journey to blossom while you gain confidence.
The Tutor: Christine Forbes
With a background in design, Christine has a natural flair for drawing which she progressed through a BA in fine art some 20 years ago, graduating with the painting prize for her final year. Now much influenced by Chinese and Japanese brushwork skill, she converted her knowledge and teaching experience into a book: ‘Drawing with the Brush,’ which was published last year and has been selling well.
Drawing from nature, with a touch of East Asian philosophies have permeated all Christine’s artwork over the years and forms a natural part of her teaching. Focus is always on line and form and all the shapes that can be harnessed by the artist. Mastering watercolour technique is always an adventure. A week at Sergeac under Christine’s guidance will provide you with the perfect opportunity to explore and develop all these exciting new painting possibilities, whilst using the local views, flora, landscape, markets and chateaus for inspiration. What a wonderful environment to build skill and socialise with like-minded artists.
More information on Christine and her art can be found on her website.
www.christineforbes.co.uk.
Daily Schedule
Breakfast - 8:00am - 9:00am
Studio - 9:30am - 11:00am
Coffee - 11:00am - 11:30am
Studio - 11:30am - 1:00pm
Lunch - 1:15pm - 2:30pm
Studio - 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Leisure time - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Aperos - 7:00pm - 7:30pm
Dinner - 7:30pm
Accomodation
During the course you will be staying at Gites L’Enclos in the medieval hamlet of Sergeac. The ensuite bedrooms are spread between the old farmhouse and converted stone barn and come equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. There is plenty of space for you to relax in your free time, with the secluded parkland gardens on the banks of the Vézère river boasting two swimming pools and a covered outdoor terrace.
Price Per Person
Art Course and a private ensuite room
£1,700
Art Course and a shared twin ensuite room
£1,550
What’s Included
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Accommodation, Food & Drink
7 nights ensuite accommodation (1)
Full board - breakfast, lunch & dinner
Tea, coffee and cake
Aperos - beer, wine & soft drinks
Wine - included with dinner
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Activities & Excursions
Wood fired pizza oven night
Outdoor cinema evening
Dinner at local restaurant (wine included)
Walk to St-Léon-sur-Vézère (picnic lunch)
Visit to St Cyprien Sunday morning market
Visit to Montignac (Optional)
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Items Not Included
Food & drink bought on excursions or visits
Flights/transport to & from L’Enclos (2)(3)
Travel insurance
Materials and art equipment (list provided)
1. If you wish to stay on for a few days after the course to explore this beautiful part of France, then you would be very welcome. If you would like more details please contact us.
2. Suggested flights:
From Stansted: Ryanair FR2668 17th September departing at 12:20 arriving in Bergerac at 15:05. Return from Bergerac Ryanair FR2667 24th September departing at 15:30 arriving back at Stansted at 16:10.
From Bournemouth: Ryanair FR7098 17th September departing at 12:45 arriving in Bergerac at 15:20. Return from Bergerac Ryanair FR7099 24th September departing at 15:45 arriving back at Bournemouth at 16:05.
Transfers to and from Bergerac airport to L’Enclos are included in the price of the course if you travel on the suggested flights. A vehicle will be waiting to collect you on arrival at Bergerac airport.
3. Car rental or taxis are available from all airports (Bergerac, Brive-la-Gaillard, Bordeaux, Limoges Toulouse) at your own cost. We can provide directions and advice to anyone wishing to travel by car.
The Local Area
Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, the picturesque Vézère valley is an archaeological treasure trove, boasting an extraordinary concentration of prehistoric sites that have earned it the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage site. For thousands of years, this region has witnessed the ebb and flow of human civilization, making it one of the most important archaeological regions in the world. Its natural beauty is equally captivating, offering a wealth of outdoor activities for nature lovers. Explore the verdant hills and meandering rivers on foot or by bike, marvel at the breathtaking views from ancient hilltop castles, or embark on a leisurely canoe trip along the tranquil waters of the Vézère River. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history buff, or simply seeking a serene escape, the Vézère Valley promises to enchant you at every turn.
For more information on the local area and things to do and see please refer to our Activities page.
