FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

 

Does it matter what level of painting skills I have?

Not really, although this retreat is ideally suited to those who have some experience of painting in the watercolour medium; the retreat program is designed for those who want to progress with their landscape painting, but there is no required starting point for that progression, as such. As a small group of 8, there is ample scope for Olly to work with you on a one-to-one basis, ensuring that the teaching is tailored to your individual experience.

 

Will Olly’s style of teaching suit me?

We hope so, but some prefer a more restricted approach to learning. Olly’s teaching philosophy is that it is important to learn foundational techniques that you can use and adapt to paint the subjects that inspire you and realise your own creative ambitions. Consequently, the teaching is not structured around repeated ‘follow-me’ style demonstrations, where everyone copies the teacher – this does not promote the degree of independence required to encourage creativity. Olly prefers to demonstrate individual techniques with drills and exercises that can be used to build independence and versatility, enabling students to paint their own subjects successfully.

 

Are we allowed to take photos or video clips of what Olly is teaching?

Yes, however this must be for personal use and learning only. It may not be distributed externally or posted on social media platforms or used in any way that is financially detrimental to Olly.

 

Will equipment be provided?

Group members will need to bring their own equipment. We will provide a full list well in advance of the course date, providing you with the minimum requirements and also Olly’s own suggestions and recommendations. We provide painting boards for the studio and seats for painting on location.

 

Will we be painting outdoors?

Subject to the weather, yes – the summer weather in the UK is generally good, but of course, this cannot be guaranteed. Being in the landscape to find inspiration and fully understand our subject is an essential component of our progress as landscape painters, and we will be looking for opportunities to spend time sketching and painting on location. Of course, time will be spent painting in the studio too, and should the weather be problematic, Olly has a wealth of experience in terms of regional knowledge and reference images to work with indoors.

 

Does access to the painting locations require a good degree of fitness/mobility?

The locations we paint at can all be reached by short walks, none of which could be described as a hike, and are therefore easily accessible. The terrain at a couple of locations is undulating and may not be suitable if you experience difficulties with mobility.

 

Will my dietary requirements be accommodated for the meals provided?

Yes – the following is taken from the Manor’s website, and the retreat will be based on this policy:

'Please mention any dietary requirements, allergies, or intolerances when booking.

We do not specifically cater to Vegan diets, but we will be happy to discuss with you if any of our Vegetarian dishes on the menu the day you are dining would be suitable or adaptable.'

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Does the cost of the retreat include travel?

No, travel is not included, and group members will need to make their own arrangements for this. Following your reservation, we will provide you with a range of options and suggested routes from the main London transport hubs.

 

When does payment for the retreat need to be made?

A non-refundable (on cancellation by you) deposit payment of £350 per person will be taken to confirm your registration, and the balance is due 60 days before the retreat start date.

 

Will my deposit be refundable if the retreat is cancelled?

If the retreat is unable to proceed and is cancelled by us prior to the collection of the final payment, then deposits will be refunded in full.

 

If the retreat is cancelled after the final payment has been made, will my payment be refunded?

If the retreat is unable to proceed and is cancelled by us once we have taken the final balance payment, then it will be refunded in full.

 

If I arrive late or leave early for the retreat, is it possible for my fee to be pro-rated?

The fee is an all-inclusive package that includes the hospitality, tuition, organisation and with limited places for the retreats, we are unable to pro-rate the fee, irrespective of the time you can stay with us.

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