** SAVE £150 EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT UNTIL AUG 15 **
(discount added to final balance and not combinable with other discounts)

OVERVIEW

*NO PREVIOUS ART BACKGROUND REQUIRED. All levels are welcome, and participation is voluntary. Projects and classes will be offered as a completely exploratory, non-intimidating and personal experience.

This is a genuine travel journal workshop, with all of us working on a small scale with just a few brushes, a watercolour painting kit and an A5 watercolour journal (all supplied). We will be drawing, painting and photographing everywhere we go in order to generate multiple pages of lively colourful artwork. For any studio artist this is also a great trip for gathering images to work from later in your studio, but for many of you it will be a chance to learn the skill of creating an unforgettable creative journal.

MALTA

We’re so excited to announce this new location for our roster. It’s been one that our guests have looked forward to, and one that holds a special place for our founder, Julian, as it’s the land of his birth! He’s looking forward to sharing this magical place with everyone and seeing it through an artist’s eye.

In many ways, Malta is the Mediterranean in capsule form. It has the beaches and the lagoons for swimming, clifftops and herb-scented hillsides for walking, a dramatic history with battle-scarred landmarks and Renaissance classics, and a breezy, easy-going attitude to life. Parts of its landscape are reminiscent of Istanbul, or Venice, or Greece – and it’s played all three on screen, thanks to the number of films shot on location here. It’s long been a destination for heat-seekers, thanks to its climate clocking up more than 300 days of sunshine a year – and it can easily be T-shirt weather even in November or March, making it a smart choice for half-term escapes or winter sun holidays. Recently, however, its capital, Valletta, has shaken itself awake and is redefining itself as a credible, year-round European city-break destination, with a fresh creative spirit attracting a youthful, switched-on crowd. – Conde Nast Traveller

LODGING

Our homebase on this retreat will be the fabulous DOMUS ZAMITTELLO BOUTIQUE HOTEL.

Step into a Valletta landmark and a world of aristocratic elegance at Domus Zamittello – a 16th-century palazzo that has been meticulously restored to its former glory.

Now this award-winning, family-run boutique hotel in Upper Valletta invites you to experience the refined lifestyle of Malta’s noble past. From the moment you enter, you’ll be captivated by the palazzo’s rich history, exquisite architecture, and warm hospitality. Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this Maltese masterpiece, where every corner tells a story and every stay becomes an unforgettable journey in the very heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city.

SURROUNDING AREA

Guests will not only enjoy the hotel property with its traditional decor, but will also have plenty of time to explore the city, the sites, shops, and markets. The week begins with a guided walking tour to allow guests to get their bearings, see the major sites, and learn about the rich artistic heritage of this city. Throughout the week we will explore other parts of the island - both inland and coastal. We’ll have an excursion to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk known for it’s sprawling fish market and restaurants, and a harbor filled with the traditional luzzi boats. It’s a perfect place to feel like you’ve stepped back in time and also capture some colorful photos.

We’ll also go inland to the old capital city of Mdina, a fortified medieval town enclosed in bastions, located on a large hill in the centre of Malta. The town was the old capital of Malta, and with its narrow streets, few inhabitants and beautiful views over the Island it is truly a magical town. Mdina is referred to as the “Silent City” by Maltese and visitors alike - no cars (except those of a limited number of residents) have permission to enter Mdina and the town provides a relaxing atmosphere among the visitors walking its narrow streets and alleyways.

Each day will be broken down into time to work in our “studio” space at the hotel, a walking tour and art on location, art history, and cultural treats.

ART

Daily art classes will be offered in a beautiful space in this boutique hotel. The classes will tie in with all of our painting and drawing activities as we enjoy our excursions in the city during the day. Please note that all art materials needed will be supplied. Our courses are carefully designed for complete beginners with no previous experience as well as intermediate artists who would like to improve their skills/techniques, and, of course, practicing artists looking for a new inspiration. Julian, the host and instructor, has 30 years of experience teaching students of all ages and abilities, and always strives to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Read more about his story on the ABOUT page. These unique courses also reflect the culture, art, and history of the area and are interwoven with art-history excursions, providing inspiration, variety and interest throughout the week. Above all, this is a real opportunity for developing artists to work in small groups alongside an experienced teacher.

* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!

DETAILS / PRICING

• 6 days / 5 nights (Mar 9-14, 2025)

• Regular Inclusive Retreat Price = £2,595 (shared room*) +£595 (single room supplement)

** SAVE £150 EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT UNTIL AUG 15 **

• Deposit to hold space = £750

• Max # Guests = 12
  * Shared rooms are only for couples or 2 guests signing up together who share a bed.
  ** Final balance due 45 days before retreat start date.
  Read full cancellation policy in our Terms & Conditions.

INCLUDED*:

• Hotel accommodation (spacious bedrooms, luxury bathrooms, linens)

• Daily Breakfast and Daily Dinner or Lunch

• Daily art classes

• Plein air classes

• Art materials

• Valletta sites + guided walking tour

• Aperitivo at panoramic bar overlooking the Grand Harbour

• Entrance into churches / museums

• Daytrip to Marsaxlokk

• Daytrip to Mdina

• City hotel tax

* airfare not included
**tentative schedule, activities may be substituted based on weather and seasonability. All activities are carefully chosen based on the best experience for the guests.

LOCATION:

• Airport: Malta International Airport (MLA)

• Hotel is easily reachable by taxi in about 15 minutes

SUGGESTED PACKING:

Besides the basic packing and travel needs, here are a few things to think about bringing with you.

• General art supplies are provided, but feel free to bring any specific materials that you prefer

• Smart phone with camera and/or digital camera

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Plug adaptors / converter

• Hat, sunscreen, and a smile