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4-day Plein Air Painting Adventure with Graham Webber ROI


Course Date: Wednesday 9th – Monday 14th July 2025

(Painting days: 10th - 13th July)


*THIS RETREAT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED*


Overview

Embark on an Inspiring 4-Day Plein Air Painting Adventure with Graham Webber ROI!

Discover the artistic magic of plein air painting with the award-winning artist Graham Webber ROI in an inspiring and relaxing 4-day retreat. Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant colours, captivating compositions, and stunning landscapes as we explore the picturesque settings of North Devon. This is more than just a painting holiday - it's a journey to unleash your creativity and deepen your artistic skills.

What Awaits You:

Gardens in Bloom - Dive into a kaleidoscope of colours amidst lush, enchanting gardens. Learn to capture the vibrancy of flowers and foliage, mastering the art of colour mixing and using negative space to make your compositions pop.

Historic Farm Buildings - Step back in time as we explore the rustic charm of Westcott Barton’s historic farm buildings. Develop your eye for perspective and form while painting these characterful structures, bringing their rich history to life in paint.

The Inviting North Devon Coast - Feel the sea breeze and soak in the dramatic views of the rocky coastline. We'll focus on atmosphere and tone, capturing the essence of the coast's ever-changing moods and the interplay of light and shadow.

Beyond the Subject - Take your work to new heights with Graham’s invaluable insights on pushing your painting further. Whether you’re adding the finishing touches or developing a new direction, you’ll leave with plenty of ideas to continue your artistic journey at home.

Why Join This Retreat?

Tailored for Enthusiasts: Designed for those with some basic painting experience, this retreat is perfect for anyone eager to refine their style and expand their artistic horizons.

Versatile Techniques: While the focus is on oil painting, Graham’s techniques are adaptable to acrylics and water-mixable oils, ensuring everyone can benefit.

Interactive Learning: Enjoy Graham’s relaxed and approachable teaching style, which encourages open interaction and lively discussions, making the learning process both fun and engaging.

Stunning Locations: From the tranquil gardens of Westcott Barton to the dramatic coastline of North Devon, each location is chosen to inspire and challenge, providing a perfect backdrop for your artistic exploration.

Join us for this unforgettable experience and take your painting to new levels while surrounded by the natural beauty of Westcott Barton and the North Devon coast. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant gardens, the rugged coastline, or the historic farm buildings, you’ll find endless inspiration and expert guidance to inspire you and elevate your paintings.


About the Tutor

Multi award-winning artist Graham Webber ROI is renowned for his accomplished use of oil paint and his engaging teaching style. As a celebrated member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, Graham's enthusiasm shines through not only in his artworks but also in his ability to inspire others. He frequently shares his expertise in The Artist Magazine, publications and with his instructional film, "Inspired by Atmosphere," produced by Townhouse Films.

Graham's workshops are a blend of creativity and camaraderie. With a relaxed and approachable teaching method, he fosters a dynamic environment where interaction and lively discussions are encouraged. His artwork graces galleries across the UK and private collections worldwide and his distinguished career has earned him a place in Who’s Who in Art. Whether through his paintings or his teachings, Graham leaves a lasting impression on those who encounter his work.

Please visit Graham’s website for further information and to view his gallery pages.


Itinerary

Upon your arrival on the Wednesday afternoon, at around 3pm, you will be greeted by the team at Westcott Barton.

The retreat will begin with a relaxed afternoon, settling into the accommodation, meeting fellow students and taking a guided tour with Graham around the grounds of Westcott Barton. The evening will finish with a group dinner.

Breakfast will be served daily from 8.30am and students will then gather in the studio at around 9.30am for a morning demonstration.

Tea, coffee and biscuits are freely available to help yourself to during studio breaks.

Lunch is served at 1pm. Afternoons will be dedicated to your own painting time, with Graham on hand to guide you.

A packed lunch will be provided, if appropriate.

Evening dinner is at 6.30pm.

Students are welcome to continue working in the studio outside of the designated teaching time.

Departure is on the Monday morning, when Graham will discuss the best ways to ensure your work is taken home safely. Students are welcome to depart on the Sunday evening if required.

Some days will be set aside for sketching/painting outside (weather permitting) although artists are welcome to work in the studio if preferred.

A trip to the North Devon coast will take place during the week (weather permitting) with transport included, for sketching, painting and photography.

Course spaces are limited to around 12 participants to ensure Graham has the ability to provide you with personal advice and support during your time here.

Graham Webber
Examples of Artist's Work
Examples of Artist's Work
Examples of Artist's Work
Examples of Artist's Work

Examples of Artist's Work

Skill Level

Some experience of painting or drawing is beneficial but if you are new to oil painting and fancy giving it a go, the process will be covered.

Painting Media

Oils or Acrylics.

You will need to bring:

Your preferred paints, approx 8 canvas/boards measuring no more than 50 x 40cm. A range of different canvas sizes and formats would be useful. Suitable paint brushes, low odour paint thinner for oil painters, sketchpad and pencils, palette and other studio sundries. Camera/Smartphone/iPad/tablet for taking photographs and to work from reference images.

Artists who have plein-air, French or field easels are encouraged to bring these. For those artists travelling from overseas or via public transport, easels can be provided by prior arrangement. Studio chairs, tables and portable plein air stools will be provided

This retreat includes:

- Tuition, accommodation and meals during your stay, including an evening meal on day of arrival and breakfast on day of departure.

Please click here to view a sample menu (PDF opens in new tab).


Cost of Course

INTRODUCTORY OFFER

Single occupancy in secure room, with own bathroom facilities: £875 per person.

Single occupancy room or shared room (twin or double), but sharing bathroom facilities: £830 per person (minimum booking for two and both must be participating in the retreat).

Non-participating partners sharing a course participant's room are welcome: £495 per person and includes meals. This option is subject to availability.


Retreat Booking Form

*THIS RETREAT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED*

The form can either be printed and completed by hand or filled out on your computer (Adobe PDF reader required). If the latter, please make sure you save the PDF once you have added your details and then email this back to us.

RETREAT BOOKING FORM (PDF) - please right click and save to your computer.


Travel Arrangements

If you are travelling to Westcott Barton by car, please refer to our Location page for directions.

We suggest you download what3words and then use Google Maps within the app to provide you with directions to us. Please enter our full address and not just the postcode.

It is possible to pre-book a taxi from Barnstaple station. Please contact either VIP Taxi on 07868 311 773 and speak to Martin, or B-Line Taxis on 01271 322117.

If you are planning to travel by another means of transport please contact us for assistance.