Join Graham for a painting retreat at the beautiful Westcott Barton estate, where we will immerse ourselves in the rich variety of subjects found both within the grounds and beyond. This retreat will focus on developing confident plein air painting skills, working directly from life (weather permitting) to capture atmosphere, structure and light.
Over the course of the week, we’ll use just three primary colours and white to explore the estate’s characterful buildings, gardens, trees and surrounding landscape - tackling the unique challenges these subjects present. Together we will look closely at perspective, colour mixing, tonal values and composition, always with an eye to simplifying the scene into strong, expressive paintings.
To keep our brushwork lively and responsive, we’ll work on a range of board sizes, from small, quick 30-minute studies that sharpen observation and decision-making to larger, more sustained pieces that allow for depth and refinement. This variety will help you build a strong toolkit for tackling any plein air subject.
On the final painting day, we’ll venture further afield with a minibus trip to the dramatic Valley of Rocks. Here, you’ll have the chance to put all you have learnt into practice and paint the striking cliffs and rocky formations, with the sea as a backdrop. Please note that this day may involve a short section of steep walking. For those who prefer not to walk, there are alternative options: you can remain painting at Westcott Barton, or enjoy the facilities at the Valley of Rocks where a café, toilets and benches are available.
Whether you are drawn to the intimate details of the garden or the grandeur of the coastline, this retreat is designed to stretch your skills and deepen your enjoyment of painting outdoors, all within a supportive and inspiring environment.
Why Join This Retreat?
- You’ll come away with stronger skills in composition, colour mixing and tonal control.
- Learn to paint a variety of subjects with more confidence with just three primary colours and white.
- Discover how to simplify a scene and avoid getting lost in unnecessary detail.
- Explore how to identify and capture light, atmosphere and perspective directly from life.
- Try painting in a variety of inspiring settings from Westcott Barton’s grounds to the dramatic cliffs of the Valley of Rocks.
- Receive friendly, tailored tuition and advice from Graham Webber ROI, an award-winning member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters.
- Enjoy a relaxed, supportive environment where you can ask questions, try new approaches and grow your confidence.
- Go home with a collection of paintings and studies that reflect your artistic progress and personal style.
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.
Upon your arrival on the Wednesday afternoon, at around 3pm, you will be greeted by the team at Westcott Barton.
The week will begin with a relaxed afternoon, settling into the accommodation, meeting fellow students and going on 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 10.00am 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.
Tutoring will end at 4.30pm but you are welcome to continue working in the grounds or studio outside of the designated teaching time.
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 Tuesday morning. Students are welcome to depart on the Monday 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 12 participants to ensure Graham has the ability to provide you with personal advice and support during your time here.
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.
Oils or Acrylics.
Your preferred paints (oils or acrylics) in the following colours: (Winton range) Titanium White, French Ultramarine Blue, Cadmium Red Hue, Cadmium Yellow Pale Hue, approx 10 canvas/boards in a variety of sizes from 6in x 8in to 12in x 16in (if using MDF boards prime with two coats of W&N acrylic gesso primer). A no.6 Flat hog bristle brush and a no.2 Rigger, low odour paint thinner for oil painters, sketchpad and pencil, palette and easel. A selection of primed boards will be available to buy during the retreat if needed. A camera/Smartphone/iPad/tablet will be useful 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.
- Tuition, accommodation and meals during your stay, including an evening meal on day of arrival and breakfast on day of departure.
INTRODUCTORY OFFER
Single occupancy in secure room, with own bathroom facilities: £975 per person.
Single occupancy room or shared room (twin or double), but sharing bathroom facilities: £930 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: £525 per person and includes meals. This option is subject to availability.
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.
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.