Linda Robertson
Embracing Magic
June 19th - 26th, 2024
Even on my first day in Ireland, I felt it. The landscape was stunning, of course, but the light reflected more delicately off the stone. The breeze carried the scent of both land and sea. Legends of mystery and magic were everywhere, and we visited places where the veil is thin between worlds. No one apologized for talking about things so “woo-woo” or looked embarrassed when they shared their stories. It was exciting, and I was immediately inspired to paint this ancient and mysterious place.
Many of my favorite artists create landscapes that capture the feel of a place rather than what you might view through a camera lens, and that will be the goal of our journey together. I’ll share some of my favorite ways to create art that represents much more than a postcard version of your time in Ireland.
A wonderful way to loosen up and let go of what you see in front of you is to simplify and abstract the landscape. There’s no need to depict every leaf on a tree when your brain fills in the rest with the right suggestion.
Your paintings don’t have to be realistic at all. Instead, you can make them magical, and I'll guide you in making that happen. It's not just the visual landscape I remember while trying to capture a feeling of magic. It's also the color, texture, scent, and story attached to my memories. So how can you portray that in a piece of art? I’ll take you through fun exercises in choosing colors, quick sketching, and using word play to reveal new ways to approach encaustic painting and collage. We’ll also share experiences that we can draw from to help one another create much deeper work. Most importantly, I’ll share how to imbue your encaustic paintings more directly with the spirit of the land. We’ll create collage papers using materials from where we wander; emerald fields, winding paths, and ancient castle walls. This imagery will be used in the paintings we create, and we’ll have a community table where we can share what we’ve collected. Throughout our time together we’ll be sharing both materials and ideas while creating long-lasting connections. I hope you'll join me in embracing Ireland, and Embracing Magic!
About Linda
“I create imagined landscapes with lush botanical forms and vibrant colors reminiscent of places I've loved, like my childhood home in Hawaii and my current home in the US Pacific Northwest.”
“It has always been a priority for me to live close to inspiring natural areas because of the impact it has on my work and my state of mind. Being surrounded by such beauty has always had a strong influence on the colors and forms that I incorporate into my paintings. I feel the pull to paint my impressions of these places even when they are just a warm memory on a cold day.
Taking time to study the natural world relaxes me and balances my emotions in stressful times. I want my paintings to be reminders that we are not separate from nature and that our future is rooted in helping her thrive.”
Reviews
From Our Host Lora
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 constantly shifting Atlantic skies, reflecting an ever changing light show on the bay. The wildness and drama of this spectacular area belie the peace and connection you will feel to Ireland and to this very special place.
Lay 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. Find yourself letting go of the stress of everyday life, feel the mystery and beauty of this land, awakening your senses.
This unspoiled place provide a safe place of inspiration and experimentation to stretch your skills in whatever medium you are working on, in an amazing state of the art studio..
Join us in Mulranny, Ireland.
Dream about the history of past times, evident in every field with old stone walls, every stoic castle and each abandoned cottage.
Local Villages
Meet the local people, warm, friendly and always happy to chat and share a story or a cup of tea. Shop in our local village of Westport and pop into 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
Bring your camera, your sketchbooks and prepare to lose your heart in it all, your mind full of inspiration.
Your Time with Linda
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 artist, Lora Murphy.
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!
Here is a 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.
Day 1: Arrival
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.
Day 2: Studio!
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.
Day 3: Day Trip
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.
Day 4: Studio!
As above, and dinner will be at a lovely little pub in the Village (included)
Day 5: Studio!
We often have a special entertainment on this evening but it depends on availability. We willlet you know.
Day 6: 1/2 Studio
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).
Day 7: 1/2 Studio!
1⁄2 Studio day and finishing up work. Pizza party dinner with wine and sharing.
Day 8: Departure Day
The bus will take you to Westport train station for a 945 departure to Dublin.
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.
June 19th - 26th, 2024
Embracing Magic
US$3295 for a private bedroom/shared bathroom
US$3950 for a private bedroom & 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.
$500.00
Accommodation:
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