Daily Painting & Creative Workshops
Immerse yourself in guided art sessions rooted in expressive, intuitive, and abstract techniques. Drawing inspiration from the shifting tides of Clew Bay and the rugged Mayo landscape, we will explore color, layering, mark-making, and the beauty of creative looseness. Through live demonstrations and ample studio time, you will build a soulful body of work that captures the atmospheric magic of the Irish coast.
A Supportive, Encouraging Community
This retreat is designed for all levels—from those picking up a brush for the first time to seasoned artists looking to refresh their practice. You’ll find a warm, uplifting sanctuary at Essence of Mulranny, where the salt air and a welcoming community make creativity feel effortless.
Creative Breakthroughs & Lasting Memories
You’ll return home with:
🎨 New Techniques: Fresh approaches to abstract and intuitive painting.
🎨 Personal Gallery: A collection of work inspired by the Wild Atlantic Way.
🎨 A Renewed Spark: A sense of creative clarity and momentum.
🎨 Deep Connections: Lasting friendships forged at the edge of the sea.
Who This Retreat Is For:
✨ Women seeking a dedicated space to paint, rest, and reconnect with their inner voice.
✨ Artists and Beginners eager to trade "perfection" for movement and guided creative freedom.
✨ Travelers inspired by the mist-covered mountains, rich Irish heritage, and the peace of a seaside village.
✨ Creatives ready for a soul-nourishing getaway at the very boundary of Europe.
Space to Breathe, Room to Create
At Essence of Mulranny, every detail is curated so you don't have to lift a finger. From comfortable lodging and locally inspired meals to organized excursions into the dramatic landscape, everything is handled. Your only responsibility is to show up, breathe in the Atlantic breeze, and create.
Join Me in Ireland
If you’re ready for an unforgettable journey filled with art, wild beauty, and deep inspiration, I invite you to join me in 2027. Let the landscape move you.
About Betty Franks
I am driven by a passion for color, nature, and fostering creativity in others. Inspired by the vibrant beauty of fields of flowers and landscapes, I create colorful, expressive artworks that evoke joy and spark the imagination.
Working primarily with acrylics and incorporating mark-making techniques, I blend intention with spontaneity, allowing each piece to evolve organically.
My journey as an artist has evolved into a dedication to teaching and nurturing creative growth. Through online courses and in-person workshops, I guide aspiring artists, particularly women over 50, to develop their unique artistic voices and build confidence in their abilities. I believe that art should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their skill level.
In all my work, whether a vibrant painting or a thoughtfully designed learning experience, my goal is to show you that anyone can make art they love. Through my paintings and classes, I hope to spark your imagination, help you find your artistic voice, and bring a little more color into the world.
Reviews
From all of us here at EOM
You are warmly invited to stay a while.
We invite you to imagine standing on the panoramic hillside of our studio, taking in the spectacular views of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s holy mountain).
Open your heart to the profoundly moving drama of the constantly shifting Atlantic skies, reflecting an ever-changing light show on the bay. The wildness and grandeur of this spectacular area belie the peace and connection you will feel to Ireland and to this very special place.
Lie on a blanket in the heather and watch the stars emerge on a clear night, or walk along the rocky shores to gather shells, driftwood, and memories. Feel yourself letting go of the stress of everyday life as the mystery and beauty of this land awaken your senses.
This unspoiled landscape provides a haven of inspiration and experimentation, a place to stretch your skills in whatever medium you are working with, all within an amazing, state of the art studio.
Join us in Mulranny, Ireland.
Set in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, Essence of Mulranny Studios provides a sanctuary for creativity—where the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast becomes both backdrop and inspiration. Surrounded by stone walls, sea air, and the deep-rooted myths of the land, you’ll find the perfect setting to truly immerse yourself in your work and your growth.
Local Villages
Meet the local people, warm, friendly and always happy to chat and share a story or a cup of tea. While you're here, take some time to explore the charming village of Westport, where you can shop at the quaint stores and perhaps stop by a local pub or two.
Connect with Nature
Finding something to inspire you is not hard with the richness of the various eco systems surrounding Mulranny - from marine to mountain landscapes, with grasslands, bog and heather hills - this enchanted land casts a spell on any artist.
Enriching Excursions
Visit historic sites. Learn about the infamous Irish Pirate Queen and visit one of her many castles. Hear the story of our Stone Age ancestors and experience the myths and magic of Irelands spiritual roots while standing in one of the ancient stone circles. This is indeed a land of legends!
Find Your Inspiration
Make sure to pack your camera and sketchbooks because you're about to embark on a journey that will capture your heart and fill your mind with boundless inspiration. Prepare to be swept away by the sights, sounds, and stories that make this place truly magical.
Your Time with Betty at EOM
Your 8 days will be a beautiful blend of studio time, delightful excursions, cultural experiences and of course, plenty of free time to rest and explore!
You can arrive, unpack your suitcase (and your art supplies) and truly relax, at the gorgeous Essence of Mulranny Retreat center, operated by yours truly. We will be visiting enchanting villages, strolling along the beautiful coastline, touring ancient castles and ruins, wandering in the coastal fields and gathering inspiration along the way!
Your general itinerary for your time in this magical place.
There may be a few changes here and there, depending on weather usually but we will let you know.
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We will collect you all at Westport Train station at 4pm and whisk you away to Mulranny, about 30 mins drive. After a champagne reception, we will gather for dinner and sharing and get you settled in to your rooms at EOM or DeBrun house.
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The MAC studio will be open from 9am to 8pm and is a short walk from the residence areas Class will be from 10.00am to 4.30pm.
We will serve lunch at 1pm each studio day at the MAC.
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This day is an all day trip to Achill Island. Lunch will be at a lovely little restaurant (your expense)
Dinner will be served back at EOM.
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Class will be from 10.00am to 4.30 pm
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Studio from 10.00 am to 4.30 pm
We will have a special entertainment on this evening .
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1⁄2 Studio day until 1pm and a trip to local attractions including Westport and the Old Irish Goat center. Dinner will be at the Famous Nevins restaurant (your expense).
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1/2 Studio day and finishing up work. Delicious dinner with wine and sharing.
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Our lovely guide and driver, Colum, will take you to Westport train station for a 9:45 departure to Dublin or the Galway bus.
Your home for the week.
This beautiful learning center is complete with well equipped mixed media/encaustic art studio, private bedrooms, a cozy gathering room with fa fabulous view and group kitchen for those midnight snacks!
All meals served onsite will be prepared by an on-site private chef and will focus on delicious, healthy cuisine. We happily cater to special diets. For larger groups we may house students in the village, in apartments with spectacular views.
April 1st - 8th, 2027
Coastal Alchemy: Layers, Light, and Landscape
with Betty Franks
US $4,895 for a private bedroom & bathroom
US $3,995 for a shared bedroom/shared bathroom
Included in your retreat:
Workshop instruction
Some supplies (will be specified closer to trip)
7 nights lodging
Transportation from Westport to the Studio on our private bus with guide (it is recommended to fly into Dublin airport and get a train to Westport where we will meet you to take you to Mulranny).
All meals except - 1 lunch & 1 dinner
All tour & excursion fees
New friends and an art tribe!
Not Included:
Travel costs / Airfare
Passport fees, photos and processing where applicable
Additional nights lodging
Ready to reserve your spot?
A US $500 deposit will secure your place.
It is required to have insurance to cover your travel to Ireland and to cover your workshop fees for your possible cancellation in the event of illness. There are no exceptions for this policy. Read the cancellation policy here.
$500.00