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25.01.2022 Click on the photo below to see our latest newsletter and please share with your friends.

25.01.2022 THE WINGS OF AN ARTIST TRAVELLER CLIPPED Until recently Desiree Opiats life was an artists dream, spending half of it in Australia and the other in Italy and Greece, where she has been painting, exhibiting and holding art workshops in her favourite places. When she was widowed, it took a long time to put her life back together. Finally after many years she had a plan. She was flying over to the Greek island of Hydra, to find a more permanent base, when mid-flight the corona...virus broke out and she literally had to turn round and come home. When she got back to Sydney, the world had changed. She was forced into self-isolation and was so exhausted and flattened by the experience, she couldnt function for 2 weeks. Gradually she started listening to podcasts and music, as well as reading a book about Goya by Robert Hughes. After about a month, she decided to finish all the paintings in her studio that were incomplete and to reconnect with the Australian landscape. At a time when we werent allowed to go anywhere, she went to her sketchbooks for inspiration. And now her plan is to jump on her scooter, with her art materials, and explore NSW. This is a golden opportunity for me to ground myself back in Australia through painting the landscape. Desiree Opiat Prinsloo Art See more

25.01.2022 THE BOATHOUSE - A UNIQUE RESTAURANT WITH NO FOOD! Perched on the edge of Currie Harbour under the gaze of the wrought & cast iron lighthouse sits The Boathouse aka The Restaurant With No Food. King Islands best restaurant has no food. No chef or waiters, either, or anyone to wash the dishes. But dont let these trifling matters put you off the Boathouse its the best spot on the island for a long lunch or candle-lit dinner for two. Lee Atkinson Sydney Morning Herald. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/kingisland

24.01.2022 HANGING OUT AT SEAL ROCKS IN THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER'S COTTAGE What a divine and inspiring place for an Artist's Retreat! A friend and I have escaped the city to do a location recce at Seal Rocks, in the Myall Lakes NP. The changing light effects and textures of the landscape, with its jagged cliffs, powdery white, sandy beaches, turquoise water and silvery tea trees are so inspiring. Already I've done 2 drawings and an dying to get out again tomorrow morning and paint. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/

23.01.2022 CELEBRATING A WEEK OF DRAWING ON OUR LAST NIGHT! On our last evening on Lord Howe Island, our guests had a showing of their work. Each day started with drawing the ubiquitous Kentia palm, capturing it's unique qualities, using a variety of different techniques and was followed by a different theme each day. This is definitely one of the best locations for drawing and painting, as it offers so much variety. Here are a selection of their drawings, capturing that special quality of the island's natural beauty.

23.01.2022 THELMA & LOUISE WITH A HAPPY ENDING! Now that travel restrictions have eased, I'm off to explore an area in northern NSW, in the Myall Lakes NP, with a possible future artist's retreat in mind. A friend and I are spending 4 days in one of the lighthouse cottages at Seal Rocks, perched up on the top of a cliff, overlooking a spectacular, pristine beach. Our art materials are packed and we're ready to go!

23.01.2022 OH TO BE AN ARTIST AND LIVE IN PARADISE ........... Each morning I have to pinch myself. I can hardly believe such a beautiful place exists only a couple of hours flight from Sydney. In Lord Howe Island the water really is a brilliant turquoise with white sandy beaches, two dramatic volcanic mountains which dominate the landscape, a myriad of birds, swaying palms, mysterious banyan forests and big open azure skies. With so much abundance to choose from, artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne has a different theme each day. Today our guests drew rock formations in the water and tomorrow they'll study clouds and water.

23.01.2022 INTRODUCING CHEF NJ LIM - A COOKING SENSATION! NJ Lim (Me and Pantry) and I caught up for a coffee this morning to talk about catering for some upcoming art workshops that Im hosting. N.J is a familiar name in the catering industry, well known for her reputation as a skilled and passionate chef specialising in catering for high-society events. Shes even worked on superyachts! This exposure and experience in catering for a wide range of high profile clients, has allowed her to constantly innovate and upgrade her gastronomic creations. Those of you coming to our workshop with Idris Murphy in August, will be delighted by her delicious cuisine, made with passion and with ingredients sourced from local producers. Be warned, her website will make you ravenous: https://www.me-pantry.com/

23.01.2022 THE WINGS OF AN ARTIST TRAVELLER CLIPPED Until recently Desiree Opiat's life was an artist’s dream, spending half of it in Australia and the other in Italy and Greece, where she has been painting, exhibiting and holding art workshops in her favourite places. When she was widowed, it took a long time to put her life back together. Finally after many years she had a plan. She was flying over to the Greek island of Hydra, to find a more permanent base, when mid-flight the corona...virus broke out and she literally had to turn round and come home. When she got back to Sydney, the world had changed. She was forced into self-isolation and was so exhausted and flattened by the experience, she couldn’t function for 2 weeks. Gradually she started listening to podcasts and music, as well as reading a book about Goya by Robert Hughes. After about a month, she decided to finish all the paintings in her studio that were incomplete and to reconnect with the Australian landscape. At a time when we weren’t allowed to go anywhere, she went to her sketchbooks for inspiration. And now her plan is to jump on her scooter, with her art materials, and explore NSW. This is a golden opportunity for me to ground myself back in Australia through painting the landscape. Desiree Opiat Prinsloo Art See more

22.01.2022 A SAFE HAVEN ON A WILD, WINDSWEPT ISLAND ...... Country towns in Australia have their own unique character. So its no surprise that the small town of Currie, on King Island, is somewhat unique. This is a view of Currie Harbour, King Island, an important safe haven for boats on the west coast of the storm-battered island. Currie got its name from Archibald Currie, a sailor and ship owner who also salvaged wrecked ships. The towns partially sheltered natural harbour served as a base for his salvage operations in the 1860s, and he instigated the distinctive lighthouse which guards it. Artist Idris Murphy and @Kerri Ainsworth will be hosting a workshop on King Island next March. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/kingisland

22.01.2022 ONLY 1 SPOT AVAILABLE - SEAL ROCKS ARTIST'S RETREAT There is something really romantic and magical about lighthouses, majestically perched high on a headland looking out to sea. The thought of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves far below is the stuff of dreams. Pack your art materials and an appetite for delicious food, pristine scenery and stunning sunsets and join us in Seal Rocks in September. Artist Kerri Ainsworth is hosting a retreat for 6 guests, with super chef NJ Lim, staying in luxurious, historic accommodation in the lighthouse keeper's cottages. We have only one spot available. Contact us for a brochure: [email protected]

22.01.2022 FOR AN ARID ZONE IT SEEMS TO RAIN A LOT! The main objective of this trip to outback NSW was to spend time in Mungo National Park with the view to possibly doing an art workshop out there in the future. Sadly due to rainfall, our plans have been thwarted. The slippery clay roads have been closed and there's no way in. Below is a drawing I did this afternoon sitting on the banks of the Darling River in Menindee, only 3 hours along a dirt track to Mungo.

21.01.2022 EXPERIENCE TASMANIA IN GREAT STYLE & A SENSE OF HISTORY The Tasmanian border is finally open, so it's time to make plans. Renowned Tasmanian artist David Keeling and I will be hosting a Landscape Painting workshop in March staying at the historic Ratho Farm, with its stylish cottages and cosy homestead. Interested in joining us? Contact me for a brochure: [email protected]

21.01.2022 GLIMPSING AN ARTIST'S WORLD FROM INSIDE THEIR STUDIO Visiting an artist's studio really is a very intimate experience. Seeing artworks on display on the stark pristine walls of a gallery, is very contrived and far removed from both the artist and the process of art making. Artist Deborah Marks invited me to visit her studio last night before we headed out to a local restaurant for dinner. The space is a dizzying mix of colours and textures: paintings in various stages of comp...letion hanging and propped against walls, stacks of books, photographic references and art materials are strewn across desks, a palette thick with paint, hundreds of paints and paint brushes standing like sentinels. It's a fabulous way to get a really up-close and personal take on the artist's process and I find this so much more fascinating than the rather more clinical gallery experience. See more

20.01.2022 SOURCING DRAWING MATERIALS FROM NATURE ....... Earlier in the year, artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne and I explored the towns and countryside around Mudgee. As I was wandering around the historic town of Rylstone, Jennifer was collecting reeds down by the river to create reed pens for her drawing workshop. We're off again in 2 week's time to host the workshop and basing ourselves at the stunning property Peppertree Hill.

20.01.2022 ROSS LAURIE EXHIBITION - DRY AT WALCHA Abstract landscape painter Ross Laurie is both an artist and farmer, living and working on his property in Walcha NSW. His work, which is currently showing at King Street Gallery on William, is lyrical, exciting and dynamic. In this interview, Richard Morecroft talks to Ross about his work: https://kingstreetgallery.com.au/artists/ross-laurie/ Also view the catalogue of his exhibition online: https://imags.com.au/published/ross_laurie_dry/ Ross will be taking a group of artists out to the Ross River Station, in Northern Territory this time next year. If youd like to join him, click on this link for more details: http://arttraveladventures.com.au/art-expedition-with-ross-

20.01.2022 THE ADVENTURES OF TRIM THE CAT - PORT HACKING RIVER The pristine Port Hacking River is often referred to as Sydneys forgotten waterway. Did you know that Matthew Flinders who explored this area with George Bass in 1796, had an extraordinary black cat which he called Trim? He was an adventurous spirit from the beginning; early on Trim fell overboard and had to swim to the boat and climb up a rope to safety. it was this act of bravery that caught Flinders attention. Trim woul...d not have been the only cat on board; most ships kept a few cats to catch rats and mice that could cause havoc by eating supplies or gnawing on ropes. In a bushland setting looking out across the river, not far from Sydney, this is the perfect place for an art workshop retreat. Our next workshop here is in August: http://arttraveladventures.com.au/idris-murphy-royal-nation See more

20.01.2022 We've just returned from hosting a workshop in the East Macdonnell ranges with Idris Murphy where many of his paintings in this exhibition were made.

19.01.2022 Updating Your ART Travel Adventures for 2021 & Beyond! Check out our latest newsletter with workshop updates. https://mailchi.mp//updating-your-art-travel-adventures-fo

19.01.2022 SOURCING DRAWING MATERIALS FROM NATURE ....... Earlier in the year, artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne and I explored the towns and countryside around Mudgee. As I was wandering around the historic town of Rylstone, Jennifer was collecting reeds down by the river to create reed pens for her drawing workshop. We're off again in 2 week's time to host the workshop and basing ourselves at the stunning property Peppertree Hill.

18.01.2022 OUR LAST WORKSHOP FOR 2020 IS BOOKING OUT QUICKLY! This 3-day workshop with Debbie Mackinnon Artist will be held on the beautiful secluded, waterfront property Currawong. The emphasis will be on playfulness and experimentation, exploring creative ways to make marks, challenge old ideas and find interesting new perspectives (December 1 - 3). Contact me for details: [email protected]

18.01.2022 CAPTURING THE ROMANCE OF LIGHTHOUSES ..... There is something really romantic about lighthouses. They fire our imaginations and lend themselves to stories that tug at our heartstrings. Magistically perched high on a headland looking out to sea, the thought of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves far below is the stuff of dreams. Pack your art materials and an appetite for delicious food, pristine scenery and stunning sunsets and come and join us in Seal Rocks this September. Im hosting an artists retreat for a very small group of guests, staying in luxurious, historic accommodation in the lighthouse keepers cottages. Contact me for a brochure: [email protected]

17.01.2022 CELEBRATING A WEEK OF DRAWING ON OUR LAST NIGHT! On our last evening on Lord Howe Island, our guests had a showing of their work. Each day started with drawing the ubiquitous Kentia palm, capturing it's unique qualities, using a variety of different techniques and was followed by a different theme each day. This is definitely one of the best locations for drawing and painting, as it offers so much variety. Here are a selection of their drawings, capturing that special quality of the island's natural beauty.

17.01.2022 ESCAPE THE MADNESS SAFELY WITH ART TRAVEL ADVENTURES! Hello Everyone, at ART Travel Adventures, we have been busy creating new art adventures in some very inspiring and often remote locations. We believe that spending time in beautiful places, with like-minded people, painting and drawing, is the perfect antidote to a very challenging year. Click on the link below to view the latest newsletter and please share it with your friends. Thank you. https://us3.admin.mailchimp.com/campaigns/show?id=3959369

16.01.2022 These are definitely the ingredients for a perfect escape from the city. Only an hour from Sydney cbd, this secluded, riverside retreat feels like its lost in the heart of the bush. Join myself, artist Idris Murphy and super chef NJ Lim for four blissful days of painting, fireside chats and delicious, gourmet meals with a bunch of very special, like-minded people. Contact me for details: [email protected]

16.01.2022 THELMA & LOUISE WITH A HAPPY ENDING! Now that travel restrictions have eased, Im off to explore an area in northern NSW, in the Myall Lakes NP, with a possible future artists retreat in mind. A friend and I are spending 4 days in one of the lighthouse cottages at Seal Rocks, perched up on the top of a cliff, overlooking a spectacular, pristine beach. Our art materials are packed and were ready to go!

16.01.2022 LET'S ESCAPE TO THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK IN 2021! In this month's ART Travel Adventures newsletter, we talk about two outback adventures in the Red Centre next year with two very different artists. Please take a look by clicking on the link below and share it with your friends. Thank you.

16.01.2022 ARTIST DEBBIE MACKINNON TALKS ABOUT LIFE DURING LOCKDOWN On Jan 1st, when she was feeling very low about the impact of the bushfires on our country, Debbie Mackinnon made a commitment to make at least one drawing a day for a year. She found it helped lift her mood. When lockdown happened it became difficult to keep up her normal art practice, so the daily drawing became a kind of solace and a routine. Debbie turned what could have been a very difficult time into somethin...g positive. When regulations were at their strictest and you were only allowed outside to exercise, she started drawing while walking. Whether she was at home cooking a meal, walking in the bush or driving with her husband Mike, Debbie kept drawing. Sometimes shed simply draw the ingredients she was using to make a soup or make super-quick drawings on her walks and then take them back to her home studio and develop them into paintings. See more

16.01.2022 LETS ESCAPE TO THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK IN 2021! In this months ART Travel Adventures newsletter, we talk about two outback adventures in the Red Centre next year with two very different artists. Please take a look by clicking on the link below and share it with your friends. Thank you.

15.01.2022 ONLY 1 SPOT AVAILABLE - SEAL ROCKS ARTISTS RETREAT There is something really romantic and magical about lighthouses, majestically perched high on a headland looking out to sea. The thought of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves far below is the stuff of dreams. Pack your art materials and an appetite for delicious food, pristine scenery and stunning sunsets and join us in Seal Rocks in September. Artist Kerri Ainsworth is hosting a retreat for 6 guests, with super chef NJ Lim, staying in luxurious, historic accommodation in the lighthouse keepers cottages. We have only one spot available. Contact us for a brochure: [email protected]

15.01.2022 THE LIFE OF ARTIST'S DURING COVID-19..... Over coffee one morning with artist Jan Cristaudo we discussed what life was like for her during Covid-19 and that strange period of lockdown. For the first few weeks I felt so disconnected that I couldnt paint. Life seemed so uncertain, with no tangible goals. She said that she wasnt anxious, just living in a void and found her artist friends felt similarly unmotivated. In fact she didnt go into her studio for at least 6 weeks. ...Instead she concentrated on looking at and reading lots of books on art and listening to Richard Morecroft conversations with artists on social media. Eventually, she started sketching with a friend in her garden and, after time, felt comfortable in getting back into her studio and painting. You cant always go into your studio and paint up a storm. Sometimes you need to simply be in the moment. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/ See more

14.01.2022 TALKING TO MIKE STANIFORD IN HIS STUDIO AFTER LOCKDOWN I caught up with artist Mike Staniford in his studio one morning recently and chatted with him about his life during lockdown. A lot of artists I spoke to were frozen. The lockdown for them was a barrier to making art, says Mike. However for him, it was liberating experience. Making art was a distraction from the depressing and continuous news reports. Free from the normal commitments and distractions, he was able to sp...end more time thinking about and experimenting with his artwork. He spent up to 8 hours painting and drawing each day. I wanted to re-figure the representational character of the landscape and capture the essence of it by working fast, keeping the encounter intuitive and fresh. As a result, his paintings are now moving more and more towards abstraction. Below are some examples. ME art space See more

14.01.2022 LEARNING THE LANGUAGE OF DRAWING ON LORD HOWE Another perfect day on Lord Howe Island, with artist @Jennifer Keeler-Milne and our 13 guest artists. Who could ask for a more perfect studio location and subject matter to draw. Our theme for today was the layered landscape. #lordhoweisland #jenniferkeelermilne #arttraveladventures

14.01.2022 PRINCE OF WALES OPERA HOUSE GULGONG A WORLD GEM According to renowned pianist, Roger Woodward, who has performed in some of the greatest theatres and concert halls, Gulgongs Prince of Wales Opera House is one of the worlds gems. Around the world, there are a some very special theatres and this is one of them, Mr Woodward said. It has a great tradition - Dame Nellie Melba performed here and Percy Grainger. Join artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne in November as she explores this wonderful 19th century gold rush town, in the Central Tablelands of NSW, as part of her drawing workshop based in Mudgee. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/mudgee

14.01.2022 THERES SOMETHING REALLY ROMANTIC ABOUT LIGHTHOUSES They fire our imaginations and lend themselves to stories that tug at our heartstrings. Majestically perched high on a headland looking out to sea, the thought of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves far below is the stuff of dreams. Pack your art materials and an appetite for delicious food, pristine scenery and stunning sunsets and come and join us in Seal Rocks this September. Kerri Ainsworth of ART Travel Adventures is hosting an artists retreat for a very small group of 6 guests, staying in luxurious, historic accommodation in the lighthouse keepers cottages. Weve just had a cancellation so theres 1 spot available. Contact me for a brochure: [email protected]

14.01.2022 TALES OF RATHO FARM - WHEN TASMANIA WAS A TERRA INCOGNITA In August 1821 Alexander Reid embarked with his family to seek his fortune in Van Diemens Land. It was not, as now, an event of everyday occurrence for a family to relinquish the attachments and comforts of their home in the old world to seek their fortunes in those far off islands of the South Sea, which were considered a terra incognita. Scotchmen were bringing their families from the crowded walks of Old World life to seek more elbow room in Australia. The Reids were a literary family, and kept very entertaining and personal accounts of their experiences in early Australia. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/tasmanian-landscape-paint

14.01.2022 SUPPORT OUR ARTISTS & ART COMMUNITY The overarching credo of ART Travel Adventures is to create and support the Art Community. Our team includes renowned Australian artists, chefs and caterers and together we support local tourist industries with our workshops in regional areas. At the moment times are really tough for everyone. By joining one of our workshops you are not only giving yourself a gift of an amazing creative adventure, but also supporting communities that have b...een devastated by bushfire and artists whos work relies now on teaching, with the closure of galleries and reduction in sales since the outbreak of coronavirus. Landscape painter Idris Murphy has 2 workshops this year in the Royal National Park in August and Kangaroo Valley in November. Due to the recent Victorian border closure, our guest numbers now have been reduced. In 2021 he has 3, the first on King Island in March, followed by Central Australia in May and then the Kimberley in June. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/ See more

13.01.2022 GOOD FOOD, GREAT COMPANY, STUNNING LOCATION & BLISSFUL DAYS PAINTING These are definitely the ingredients for a perfect escape from the city. Only an hour from Sydney cbd, this secluded, riverside retreat feels like its lost in the heart of the bush. Join myself, artist Idris Murphy and super chef NJ Lim for four blissful days of painting, fireside chats and delicious, gourmet meals with a bunch of very special, like-minded people. Contact me for details: [email protected]

13.01.2022 DRAWING A WILD & MAGICAL COAST & ITS QUIRKY SURROUNDS How wonderful it is to go to sleep and wake up to the sound of the sea. Early in the morning, I took off down the cliff from my lighthouse eyrie, to draw the amazing place where we are staying and to try and capture the light and textures of the sheer rock-face and vegetation. Later in the day, I discovered this quirky shack, which was crying out to be drawn.

12.01.2022 Many of our ART Travel Adventures landscape painting workshops are based on farms throughout Australia and each has its own unique character. The combination of historic homestead and farm cottages works perfectly for our workshops. And they are all so different, from Currawong on Pittwater, to Ross River Station in the Red Centre to the bucolic Ratho Farm in Tasmania. The latter had a complete facelift, converting a number of existing historic farm buildings into guest accommodation. As much as possible, the existing fabric from the original buildings was maintained and featured. This, combined with displayed memorabilia of the surrounding farmstead and region, adds to a real sense of being surrounded by history. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/tasmanian-landscape-paint

11.01.2022 Break Loose & Plan Your Creative Escape! Click on the photo to see our latest newsletter and please share with friends. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/

11.01.2022 OUR LAST WORKSHOP FOR 2020 IS BOOKING OUT QUICKLY! This 3-day workshop retreat with Debbie Mackinnon Artist will be held on the beautiful secluded, waterfront property Currawong. The emphasis will be on playfulness and experimentation, exploring creative ways to make marks, challenge old ideas and find interesting new perspectives (December 1 - 3). Contact me for details: [email protected]

11.01.2022 THE REAL STAR HERE IS COCKATOO ISLAND ....... A friend and I ventured forth on a cold and misty Saturday morning to that intriguing island in the middle of Sydney Harbour, Cockatoo Island. I could wax lyrical all day about this fascinating place with its dramatic topography, fabulous industrial architecture, sense of history, Star Wars-like cranes and wonderful harbour views. The Biennale is the perfect excuse to visit, and over the years I have enjoyed this experience immensely. Sadly this year is not one of them. It was very disappointing. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/

11.01.2022 HANGING OUT AT SEAL ROCKS IN THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS COTTAGE What a divine and inspiring place for an Artists Retreat! A friend and I have escaped the city to do a location recce at Seal Rocks, in the Myall Lakes NP. The changing light effects and textures of the landscape, with its jagged cliffs, powdery white, sandy beaches, turquoise water and silvery tea trees are so inspiring. Already Ive done 2 drawings and an dying to get out again tomorrow morning and paint. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/

11.01.2022 We Did It . . . . Let's Celebrate! - https://mailchi.mp/118f79634171/we-did-it-lets-celebrate

11.01.2022 DRAWING WORKSHOP WITH JENNIFER KEELER-MILNE IN MUDGEE Think rustic charm, vineyards, rolling green hills, exquisite food and delectable wine. Have I got your attention! Artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne will be hosting a drawing workshop in November, where we will be exploring and drawing this wonderful region of NSW, in and around Mudgee (Nov 20-24). http://arttraveladventures.com.au/mudgee Jennifer is a significant mid-career Sydney artist whose work has been included in the Dobell Prize for Drawing exhibition eight times, including in 2000 when the Art Gallery of New South Wales purchased her stunning charcoal drawing of clouds, Visibility/Invisibility, for their collection. She talks about her recent work on this video: https://youtu.be/66sIyUj0VY8

10.01.2022 THE LIFE OF ARTISTS DURING COVID-19..... Over coffee one morning with artist Jan Cristaudo we discussed what life was like for her during Covid-19 and that strange period of lockdown. For the first few weeks I felt so disconnected that I couldnt paint. Life seemed so uncertain, with no tangible goals. She said that she wasnt anxious, just living in a void and found her artist friends felt similarly unmotivated. In fact she didnt go into her studio for at least 6 weeks. ...Instead she concentrated on looking at and reading lots of books on art and listening to Richard Morecroft conversations with artists on social media. Eventually, she started sketching with a friend in her garden and, after time, felt comfortable in getting back into her studio and painting. You cant always go into your studio and paint up a storm. Sometimes you need to simply be in the moment. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/ See more

10.01.2022 OUR GUESTS ARRIVE TO A DRAMATIC WELCOME! The wonderful thing about arriving on Lord Howe Island is you are met by a welcoming committee. There was myself, Jennifer, and the family who run Ocean View Hotel Apartments all waiting to greet our guests. And then there is the dramatic backdrop of the 2 volcanic plugs, Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird, which dominate the island. Later we took our guests on an orientation walk and their first drawing adventure.

09.01.2022 THE MYSTERY & ENCHANTMENT OF EXOTIC GARDENS ..... Exotic gardens like those on Lord Howe Island and Marrakech for me are deeply mysterious and evocative and a subject that I'm drawn to paint. These 2 artworks are of the garden where we are staying on Lord Howe Island. The mediums I've used are gouache and in the second, a mix of marker pen, gouache and wax crayon.

09.01.2022 THE PERFECT ENDING TO THE DAY Artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne and I have been on a mission to find really interesting drawing locations around the Mudgee region for our workshop in November. And it has been a very busy and fun trip. Sunset is my favourite time of day and at Peppertree Hill, where our guests will be staying, this is the view from the cottages, sitting out on the verandah. Isnt it stunning! http://arttraveladventures.com.au/mudg

08.01.2022 ARTIST JENNIFER KEELER-MILNE TALKS ABOUT THE BUSHFIRES & THEIR EFFECTED ON HER ART In this video, Sydney artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne talks about how the recent bushfires in NSW, inspired her to create a group of sculptures. Keeler-Milne is a great collector of natures specimens which she uses as the raw material for her artworks. In this case, the charred remains from the bushfires along the NSW coast.

08.01.2022 GLIMPSING AN ARTISTS WORLD FROM INSIDE THEIR STUDIO Visiting an artists studio really is a very intimate experience. Seeing artworks on display on the stark pristine walls of a gallery, is very contrived and far removed from both the artist and the process of art making. Artist Deborah Marks invited me to visit her studio last night before we headed out to a local restaurant for dinner. The space is a dizzying mix of colours and textures: paintings in various stages of comp...letion hanging and propped against walls, stacks of books, photographic references and art materials are strewn across desks, a palette thick with paint, hundreds of paints and paint brushes standing like sentinels. Its a fabulous way to get a really up-close and personal take on the artists process and I find this so much more fascinating than the rather more clinical gallery experience. See more

07.01.2022 CALLING FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST! Now that we are gradually emerging from a period of social isolation and travel restrictions, it's time to reconnect with the art community and make some travel plans. Exploring Australia is now top of our list. I am excited to share with you 2 workshops with 2 different artists back-to-back in March 2021. First Idris Murphy is hosting a workshop on King Island, followed by David Keeling in rural Tasmania. If you'd like a brochure, please contact me on: [email protected]

07.01.2022 RATHO FARM WITH ITS COLOURFUL HISTORY & OLD WORLD CHARM Ratho Farm in Tasmanias central highlands was where artist David Keeling held a workshop with a group of art practitioners just before the country went into lockdown in March. The farm has a rich history and has played host to colourful characters from all walks of life, from exiled Irish nationalists, to Melbourne Cup winners, bushrangers, 100-year-old gardeners, fierce political debates, golfing royalty and one of Eng...lands best known artists. The Scotsman, Alexander Reid from Edinburgh was given a grant of 1,400 acres on the Clyde River in the 1820s. And most of the existing farm buildings, where our guests stayed were built in this period. On the outside the old bakery and stables look as they would have from that period, but inside, they are cosy, modern and very elegant. The farm has a lovely old-world charm and the staff who work there are proud of its long and colourful history. We are looking forward to returning the same time next year, so if youre interested in joining us, please take a look: http://arttraveladventures.com.au/tasmanian-landscape-paint See more

07.01.2022 EXPERIENCE TASMANIA IN GREAT STYLE & A SENSE OF HISTORY The Tasmanian border is finally open, so it's time to make plans. Renowned Tasmanian artist David Keeling and I will be hosting a Landscape Painting workshop in March staying at the historic Ratho Farm, with its stylish cottages and cosy homestead. Interested in joining us? Contact me for a brochure: [email protected]

06.01.2022 THE LIVING DESERT & SCULPURE GARDEN - BROKEN HILL 12 sandstone sculptures rise like sentinels from a hilltop above Broken Hill created by artists from around the world. At sunset, this is the place to be, watching the artworks transform with the changing light into magical monoliths, giant icons from an ancient past.

06.01.2022 ON THE ROAD AGAIN WITH JENNIFER KEELER-MILNE The first day of our location recce, artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne and I headed out of Sydney and drove towards Mudgee, where we will be hosting an art workshop in November. The day was spent exploring interesting old buildings and quirky corners in the historic town of Rylstone and the picturesque surrounding countryside, which included an old railway station and a strange flooded forest. Here Jennifer is pictured gathering bullrushes to turn into quills for our workshop guests. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/mudgee

06.01.2022 The Latest ART Travel Adventures! - https://mailchi.mp//a-sneak-peek-into-whats-coming-up-in-4

06.01.2022 A Sneak Peek Into What's Coming Up in 2022 - https://mailchi.mp//a-sneak-peek-into-whats-coming-up-in-2

05.01.2022 RATHO FARM WITH ITS COLOURFUL HISTORY & OLD WORLD CHARM Ratho Farm in Tasmania's central highlands was where artist David Keeling held a workshop with a group of art practitioners just before the country went into lockdown in March. The farm has a rich history and has played host to colourful characters from all walks of life, from exiled Irish nationalists, to Melbourne Cup winners, bushrangers, 100-year-old gardeners, fierce political debates, golfing royalty and one of Eng...lands best known artists. The Scotsman, Alexander Reid from Edinburgh was given a grant of 1,400 acres on the Clyde River in the 1820s. And most of the existing farm buildings, where our guests stayed were built in this period. On the outside the old bakery and stables look as they would have from that period, but inside, they are cosy, modern and very elegant. The farm has a lovely old-world charm and the staff who work there are proud of its long and colourful history. We are looking forward to returning the same time next year, so if youre interested in joining us, please take a look: http://arttraveladventures.com.au/tasmanian-landscape-paint See more

05.01.2022 LIFE AFTER LOCKDOWN! Click on the link or image below to see our latest newsletter and please share it with friends. *|https://mailchi.mp/[xxxxxx]/life-after-lockdown|*

04.01.2022 THE VIBRANT COLOURS OF THE DESERT AFTER RAIN For an arid zone, this region of outback NSW, seems to get a hell of a lot of rain. It has been raining off an on since last week. And the desert has come alive with colour and completely transformed. In Mutawintji NP the landscape is ablaze with the reds and orange tones of the soil, a myriad of turquoises and greens and the ubiquitous brilliant purple of Paterson's Curse, a beautiful, but noxious weed.

04.01.2022 IN THE ASHES OF AUSTRALIAS BUSHFIRES, THE KANGAROO VALLEY COMMUNITY PULLS TOGETHER Now that travel overseas is off the menu and interstate borders are still closed, it is time to think about supporting local communities which were recently devastated by bushfires. Kangaroo Valley, an idyllic farming and tourism region south-west of Sydney, is one of those communities. Artist Idris Murphy and I will be hosting a Landscape Painting workshop at Barranca, a 1,000 acre farm, whic...h was fortunate to have escaped the bushfires. Some of their neighbours were not so fortunate so they would love visitors to come and support the vibrant community and help get them back on their feet. Our caterer, Katrina Endeans business of 13 years went up in flames in just one day. Come and join us on this idyllic farm and help us support the community. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/kangaroo-valley-workshop See more

04.01.2022 Let's Celebrate - In Just Two Weeks Our 2021 Workshops Begin! - Take a look at our latest Newsletter and please share it with your friends. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/

04.01.2022 THERE'S SOMETHING REALLY ROMANTIC ABOUT LIGHTHOUSES They fire our imaginations and lend themselves to stories that tug at our heartstrings. Majestically perched high on a headland looking out to sea, the thought of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves far below is the stuff of dreams. Pack your art materials and an appetite for delicious food, pristine scenery and stunning sunsets and come and join us in Seal Rocks this September. Kerri Ainsworth of ART Travel Adventures is hosting an artist's retreat for a very small group of 6 guests, staying in luxurious, historic accommodation in the lighthouse keeper's cottages. We've just had a cancellation so there's 1 spot available. Contact me for a brochure: [email protected]

04.01.2022 CAPTURING THE ROMANCE & MYSTERY OF OUR HIDEAWAY When a friend and I did a location recce at Seal Rocks in June, in preparation for a workshop in September, I spent time trying to capture the romantic mystery of our clifftop retreat both in drawings and a painting. Pictured here is the painting I did sitting on the beach one morning and later developed in my studio. I like the freshness of the first version, but I think Ive better captured the atmosphere in the second. What do you think? We are going back again in 2 weeks with a small group of 6 artists, so it will be interesting to see how they interpret the landscape.

03.01.2022 THE WINGS OF AN ARTIST TRAVELLER CLIPPED Until recently Desiree Opiat's life was an artists dream, spending half of it in Australia and the other in Italy and Greece, where she has been painting, exhibiting and holding art workshops in her favourite places. When she was widowed, it took a long time to put her life back together. Finally after many years she had a plan. She was flying over to the Greek island of Hydra, to find a more permanent base, when mid-flight the corona...virus broke out and she literally had to turn round and come home. When she got back to Sydney, the world had changed. She was forced into self-isolation and was so exhausted and flattened by the experience, she couldnt function for 2 weeks. Gradually she started listening to podcasts and music, as well as reading a book about Goya by Robert Hughes. After about a month, she decided to finish all the paintings in her studio that were incomplete and to reconnect with the Australian landscape. At a time when we werent allowed to go anywhere, she went to her sketchbooks for inspiration. And now her plan is to jump on her scooter, with her art materials, and explore NSW. This is a golden opportunity for me to ground myself back in Australia through painting the landscape. Desiree Opiat Prinsloo Art See more

03.01.2022 CALLING FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST! Now that we are gradually emerging from a period of social isolation and travel restrictions, it's time to reconnect with the art community and make some travel plans. Exploring Australia is now top of our list. I am excited to share with you 2 workshops with 2 different artists back-to-back in March 2021. First Idris Murphy is hosting a workshop on King Island, followed by David Keeling in rural Tasmania. If you'd like a brochure, please contact me on: [email protected]

02.01.2022 UNVEILING SOME DELIGHTFUL HIDDEN SECRETS IN REGIONAL NSW Since travel restrictions have been imposed, Ive been on a journey of discovery looking for interesting locations for art workshops closer to home. Its given me the opportunity to explore my home state and Ive come up with some real surprises. Tomorrow artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne and I are taking off for a 3-day location recce to Mudgee in preparation for our art workshop in November. Along the way, we plan to go off-the-beaten-track to discover some interesting, little known places. One of them is a very surreal, old shale mining site, on a private property in Glen Davis in the expansive and dramatic Capertee Valley. http://arttraveladventures.com.au/mudgee

01.01.2022 HISTORIC GULGONG - WANDERING AROUND THE HOOD On Saturday morning my travelling companion, artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne and I explored another wonderful historic town in the area. Gulgong would be the perfect location for a film about village life in 19th century country NSW. Much to our amusement, during our 3-day recce, we have come across some very amusing signage. Just out of Rylestone on the way to Mudgee, was "Old Maids Hill." And now in the main street of Gulgong, we find proudly sentinel, the sign "Flirtation Hill Lookout." The mind boggles! If youre up for a creative adventure and some laughs, join our workshop in November. Contact me for a brochure: [email protected]

01.01.2022 AN ART TRAVEL ADVENTURES CALL-OUT TO ALL OUR FOLLOWERS! We fully understand that there is much uncertainty in the community at the moment about where and when we can travel. We wish to assure you that anyone who is booked on one of our workshops or plans to do so in the future, that in the event of it being cancelled, due to an imposed lockdown or border closure, that your fees will be refunded in full or if you prefer, transferred to another workshop. We will be taking every... precaution to make you feel safe and comfortable during your stay with us. There are 5 workshops planned in NSW for the second half of the year. Our Seal Rocks and Lord Howe Island trips are fully booked, but there are still places available on the workshops in the Royal National Park, Kangaroo Valley and Mudgee. Why not treat yourself! http://arttraveladventures.com.au/

01.01.2022 STUDIES OF THE WOOLSHED IN KINCHEGA NP The three of us spent the day exploring and sketching Kinchega NP, near Menindee in western NSW. These are studies of the historic Woolshed, with it's fascinating sheep shearing and processing equipment. On this trip I took drawing materials only as we were constantly on the move.

01.01.2022 A DRAWING ADVENTURE WITH JENNIFER KEELER-MILNE Think rustic charm, vineyards, rolling green hills, exquisite food and delectable wine. Have I got your attention! Artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne will be hosting a drawing workshop in November, where will be exploring and drawing this wonderful region of NSW, in and around Mudgee. Only 3.5 hours drive from Sydney, or a short flight or train trip. The brochure is now available, so please contact me by clicking on this link if youd like one: http://arttraveladventures.com.au/contact

01.01.2022 THE BOATHOUSE - A UNIQUE RESTAURANT WITH NO FOOD! Artist Caroline Kininmonth first saw the Currie Harbour boat house 30 years ago when she was swimming in the Harbour on early camping visits. Now she is a local and the Boathouse is something of a symbol of King Islands good energy and trusting community. Click on the photo below to continue the story ......... https://www.abc.net.au//2/boat-house-king-island/10545798