Oil painting holiday, anyone been on one?

[Ulysees]

I'd love to have a go at oil painting but am a total beginner in all aspects of painting!

Can anyone recommend a holiday that includes this or have they heard of one? I really fancy a weekend away and quite like going on my own.

[Eowyn]

if you look in one of the artists magazines they advertise loads in the back. Haven't been on one tho, think can be expensive.

[Ulysees]

thank you that's a good idea Dh went on a very expensive holiday with a friend last year (at my encouragement!) so I deserve it

[Miaou]

Not been on one as such, but did organise one and take part - it's so much fun. I'm not a confident painter but if I've got someone encouraging me and directing me I can produce some pretty good stuff. Deffo worthwhile (and )

[Ulysees]

cheers miaou, looking forward to going when I find one. I'm no painter at all so I don't know what they'd make of me?

[zippitippitoes]

are you sure it's oil painting that interests you rather than watercolour or acrylics? O reven mixed media, do you want to be outside or in a studio? UK or Europe?

[Ulysees]

Yes it is oils. I tried some acrylics once and that was ok. Do you think it's a bad idea starting with oils?

[Ulysees]

Uk probably by the way.

[Miaou]

You can get similar effects with acrylics without the faffiness of oils - which, if you are going to have to concentrate a lot on composition, form etc, might be a bit of a distraction.

The art holiday we ran was not restrictive as to medium, you just used what you were comfortable with. I managed to explore acrylic, pen and wash, watercolour, pastel and pencil sketching whilst I was there - perhaps better not to restrict yourself ulysees

[Chandra]

If you are going just for a weekend forget about the oils, no time for them to dry up! (not just in terms of transport, certainly not fun if you want to rework some areas of the painting and you have to wait for it to dry)

I took an artist's "retreat" in CAnada, it was awesome! One of the best experiences of my life.
Google for Atlin Centre. Although they last more than a weekend because the school is at the end of the world in the middle of nowhere (the real middle of nowhere I mean)

[Chandra]

P.S. HI Miaou! if you decide to run another one, please let me know! :)

[Miaou]

Ah, it was a few years ago now Chandra, when I used to live on an island with beautiful views

[Ulysees]

Thank you for the help. I'll do as you suggest Miaou and rethink the oils

Oh Canada, now that's the place to be! I love it there but have an expensive holiday coming up so will have to put that one on hold but thanks for the tip.