I invite you to join me on the rugged coast of Ireland’s “The Wild Atlantic Way” where we will explore the beauty of its shifting skies, emerald green hills and fields that continue to inspire artists to this day.
Our retreat will be a blend of observation, creativity, connection and slowing down on purpose. Together we will gather inspiration, fill our sketchbooks/field journals, explore impressionism, paint expressive landscapes and create collaged ‘Inspirational Trading Cards”. Each project greets you where you are at, giving you room for discovery, growth and personal expression in a safe, welcoming environment.
Your retreat will be a blend of studio time, landscape study, cultural excursions and time to explore on your own. When you arrive, unpack and make yourself at home.
Our entire group will be making its home at the stunning Essence of Mulranny compound, under the guidance of Irish Artist and International Host Lora Murphy.
Your week will include pencil and watercolor studies of the surrounding landscapes, where we’ll slow down and connect with the natural rhythms of the land, filling our sketchbooks/field journals with color swatches, and notes to bring into the studio along with the photos we take to create impressionistic landscapes. We will paint using acrylic paints in an impressionistic style which Joan will teach you.
Together we will also create “Inspirational Trading Cards” combining Irish quotes, with printed materials we collect throughout the week along with painted papers we make during our studio time. We will gather all these material and collage into thoughtful and inspirational cards we can trade and gift to family and friends alike.
You will leave Ireland with a renewed sense of self, a refreshed creative spirit, finished paintings, a set of “Inspirational Trading Cards” and a sketchbook/Field Journal filled with memories and inspiration to help you keep your refreshed creative spirit alive once you return home.
What to expect:
This retreat is for those interested in learning to paint like an impressionist with loose brush strokes using vibrant colored acrylic paint.
Students will create impressionistic landscape paintings while learning how to build a painting, layer by layer, using both transparent and opaque acrylic.
My approach to painting impressionistically with acrylic paints is based on studying how the impressionists of the late 1800’s painted using oil paint and the importance of transparent paint for the underpainting and adapting that process to acrylic paints.
You will complete two landscape paintings based on inspiration gathered in the fields of Ireland.
You will learn the difference between transparent acrylic paint and opaque acrylic paint and their importance in building a vibrant and luminous painting.
About Joan Nichols
Joan Margaret is known for her exceptional eye when it comes to color and is able to express that quite impressively through her artwork.
“I have worked in many different mediums throughout the years. Acrylic paints, which I like best, have a vibrancy that I enjoy, plus with their quick drying characteristics, they allow me to create pure color combinations without getting ‘mud’ which can happen with slower drying paints.” Joan paints on watercolor paper, canvas and board. “Each surface appeals to me, it just depends on what I am working on, the size of the painting and my mood!”
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 Joan 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, picnicking in the heather fields and creating all along the way! The creative inspiration will be all around you!
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 9:30am to 4pm.
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 9:30am to 4pm.and dinner will be at a lovely little pub in the Village (included)
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We often have a special entertainment on this evening but it depends on availability. We will let you know.
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1⁄2 Studio day 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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The bus 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 fireplace and group kitchen for those midnight snacks!
All meals will be included and prepared by an on-site private chef and will focus on delicious, healthy cuisine. For larger groups we house students in the village, in apartments with spectacular views.
April 23rd to 30th, 2028
An Impressionistic Journey into Ireland’s Rugged Beauty with Joan Nichols
US $4,295 for a private bedroom & bathroom
US $3,995 for a private 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 (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 lunches & 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 advisable 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.
Joan Nichols
$500.00
Nonrefundable deposit of $500 USD. Read the cancellation policy here.
For complete information and prices for the workshop please click here.