Morning: Natural inspiration workshop

Relaxed introduction morning at Figs on the Funcho learning how to use different shapes, textures and form from the nature. Using various drawing techniques and materials including graphite, charcoal and pen where you can ease into your art holiday learning new tips and tricks or a good refresher for the more experienced. Also a great way to get to know each other and discuss our art interests.

Afternoon: Walking with Cheryl

Explore the via Algarviana walking route (optional). This walking route is perfect if you enjoy solo walking or running in the morning allowing you to clear the mind of chatter and make space for clear thinking so that you can focus on the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the present.

Morning: When colour runs riot workshop

A day letting vibrant colours and bold imagery inspired from many different sources comes together to create powerful abstract art. This will be a creative day exploring different colour and how it makes us feel. Chance to try out different art materials like watercolour, acrylics or chalk. All that is required is an open mind willing to explore.

Afternoon: Sunset river walk 

Admire the sun setting behind the hills and the water reflections (optional). An ideal opportunity to study water reflections for your painting projects.

Full Day Outdoor Landscapes Painting

En plein air painting is the French expression for “in the open air” and we will be outdoors using the stunning location of Figs on the Funcho as inspiration for creating some plein air landscape painting. The morning will be used to work together and discuss how to select your landscape, then compose a painting or drawing while on location. After lunch, we will continue with the landscapes back at base where we can tune the fine details with guidance to create some impressive works of art. The hardest part of this day will be which view to choose, so maybe bring a camera. Material choice is  totally up to you, but maybe try something loose and see where the inspiration leads you.

Morning: Ink and mixed media workshop

A session on the joys of using ink in various ways to create interesting art works. A morning of play and experimentation where we will show you how versatile this medium can be, not to mention the possibilities when other mediums are used. From the application of ink from a pen for sketching, to brush work and the introduction of bleach and other unusual things.

Afternoon: Historical town 

An interesting historical town with narrow cobbled streets leading to one of the best-preserved Moorish castles in Portugal. Visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral, the archaeological museum, and perhaps do some souvenir shopping before enjoying a leisurely evening meal below the castle walls under mature jacaranda trees and marvel at the beautifully lit historical buildings

Morning: Suggestive animals workshop

Have you ever tried to draw an animal but felt it wasn’t quite right? Have you attempted to draw furry coat but it ended up looking flat? Well this tips and tricks session on all things animal will help you master simple shapes into various species followed by the techniques needed to make fur and feather come alive. From the smallest mouse, to the biggest elephant, anything goes in this session.

Afternoon: Massages for those who have booked (optional)