Creative Rhythms- and Synergy of Ebb and Flow Painting!
This workshop is about discovering and using your own creative rhythms to personalize and enhance your creative expression!
Laird’s inspiring premise about “Informed Intuitive” painting is new each year because Robbie shares the new insights and techniques she continues to discover!
Become more spontaneous without being out of control!
Through painting demonstrations and lectures, Robbie will share unique techniques for controlling large flowing wet into wet areas as well as a variety of other water media effects used in her own work. She will share how she extends her personal vision by exploring a subject, then experimenting with layering various media effects such as gouache, watercolor crayons and acrylic mediums. Layering and combining effects enables her to have more control while remaining spontaneous. She will demonstrate how she uses the strength of design as well as information gathered, to allow the most freedom while painting.
Daily activities in the studio as well as en plein air when possible, will fill your sketchbooks and build your confidence in using your own rhythms in your paintings.
Studio painting time is planned for most afternoons, with participants working from their own sketchbooks, photos and other resources. Each painter will be encouraged to identify and capitalize on their own painting strengths, and may use watercolor alone or a variety of mediums to create layered effects in their paintings. Realistic painting and abstract painting are equally encouraged. Individual critiques and assistance will be given each day. Robbie has a reputation for encouraging painters, whatever their level of accomplishment, to breakthrough to new levels of freedom and confidence in painting.
The core of my own creativity is Rhythms; those found in nature and my own personal rhythms.
In my workshops, I encourage participants to identify and use their own creative rhythms and connections to nature; and to find ways to express them in their paintings.
Robbie Laird
NWS, RMNW, SLMM, WW, SDWS
"My paintings provide a journey into the spirit of Natural connections I want to entice the viewer to explore beyond a literal depiction to the rhythm and intimacy within a subject.”
Robbie Laird, an innovative American painter, teacher, and juror, is a lifelong resident of California. Her paintings captivate the viewer with an exciting balance of ambiguity and varying amounts of specific detail. Using large brushes and flowing paint, her work dances on the edge of abstraction and realism. Sometimes using the unique qualities of flowing transparent pure watercolor to create mysterious rhythmic works, in other pieces she incorporates a variety of watermedia. Her paintings have received numerous awards in National and International exhibitions.
Laird is a signature member of several organizations including the National Watercolor Society, where she has twice received the Loa Sprung Award (top award for Non-Objective Painting). She is also a signature member of Rocky Mountain National Watermedia, Watercolor West, and San Diego Watercolor Society, and a full-juried member of the Society of Layerists in Multi-Media. She is affiliated with art associations nationwide.
Laird has been in numerous solo and group exhibitions. Her paintings are popular in Hawaii where she shows with the Village Galleries on Maui.
Laird Served as President of the National Watercolor Society and the San Diego Watercolor Society. For 12 years she was the Director of the Kanuga Watermedia Workshops in North Carolina.
Laird’s background with arts organizations and art education is extensive. After completing her Master’s degree in Art Education, she became a Fine Arts curriculum consultant, giving workshops for teachers throughout California, the United States, and abroad. As a highly sought-after instructor, she was named one of 20 Great Teachers of the last twenty years, by American Artist Magazine.
Her articles and paintings have been in Watercolor Magazine, American Artist, and International Artist Magazine. Her work is included in Splash, North Light Books, and the Artistic Touch. Her video workshop, “Flowing Florals: The Informed Intuitive Approach”, produced by Creative Catalyst Productions, and a 3-part DVD Workshop titled “A Layered Watermedia Workshop”, are available on her website. Her paintings are collected extensively in the US and internationally.
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 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.
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 Robbie 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’ll greet you at Westport Train Station at 4pm and bring you on a picturesque 30-minute drive to Mulranny.
Your arrival will be celebrated with a champagne reception, followed by a beautifully prepared dinner where we’ll share stories and set the tone for the days ahead.
As evening falls, you’ll be welcomed into the comfort of your accommodations at Heather Rise, DeBrun House, or Shangri-La, each offering its own charm and restful retreat.
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The MAC studio will be open daily from 9am to 8pm, just a short walk from the residence areas.
Classes run from 9:30am to 4pm, with a delicious lunch served at 12:30pm each studio day in the MAC.
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Your guide for the day is Colum, whose deep knowledge of Achill and lively sense of humour make every moment memorable. This full-day trip takes you across the island’s stunning landscapes, dramatic cliffs, wide beaches, and rich local history.
We’ll stop for lunch at the cozy café The Beehive (at your own expense) before returning to Mulranny via stops for photo ops and points of interest.
A light dinner will be served at the MAC for 6:30pm
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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.
June 23rd - 30th, 2026
Creative Rhythms with Robbie Laird
US $4,295 for a private bedroom/private 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