Secret Mini Art Retreat in Cornwall 2025

CREATE EXPRESSIVE BOTANICAL ART

No drawing ability needed!


Our focus will be on enjoying the process as we aim to convey the atmosphere of the gardens through expressive mark-making.


The workshop is suitable for complete beginners who would like to create art with no pressure.

It’s also suitable for experienced artists who would love to find more freedom in their art practice.

  • LIMITED SPACES

    Only 6 students per workshop which means you get plenty of one-to-one guidance from me.

  • ALL ART MATERIALS SUPPLIED

    No need to carry heavy art materials because I will provide everything you need on the day.

  • FREE ENTRY (SAVE £10)

    Free ticket to the gardens for the day, allowing you 2 hours after the workshop to explore the woodland walks if you wish.

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ART IN THE WOODS

 

workshop Testimonials

  • " Carla provided a wonderful woodland setting full of inspirational shapes and colours to provide the basis for our artwork on the day. We were given a huge variety of materials to work with, some of which we collected from nature, and encouraged to let our creativity run free! Carla demonstrated a variety of techniques to transform our sketches, marks and colours into a unique work of our own. A super enjoyable way to relax and get into a creative flow, all expertly guided by Carla in a natural way. Her humility and sweet nature brought out the best in all of us, and we shared a memorable few hours together, with a beautiful piece of art to remember it by. Thank you Carla!

     "

    - Susan B

  • " I love Carla’s workshops , she has this calm & gentle way of teaching with clear instruction . She is confidence giving & I love her unique style of work .. the adding of layers brings in so many dimensions which you can achieve even if you're a complete beginner . I will definitely do another course. "

    - Clare W.

how will the day work?

  • morning

    After a brief introduction under the gazebo, we'll soak up the environment & take a slow meander around the gardens, sketching quickly as we walk.

    You’ll also play with natural found objects & ink to create a collection of your own expressive marks.

  • lunch

    You're welcome to take your picnic on one of the many benches down by the estuary with stunning views over the water.

    There is a cafe on site offering a selection of drinks & cakes.

  • afternoon

    You will learn how to create a collage base from your sketches, how to use contrast & a limited colour palette.

    Adding layers with ink & acrylic we’ll compose our finished semi-abstract botanical pieces to take home.

what do I need to bring?

  • BRING A PICNIC

    Bring your favourite picnic & find a quiet bench down by the river during lunch break.

    OR, purchase a light lunch from the small cafe inside the gardens.

  • FOOTWEAR

    Make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes suitable for all weathers. The ground is slightly uneven in some areas.

  • clothing

    Please either bring an apron or come dressed in clothes you don't mind getting paint on.

    Although we’ll spend most of the day under a gazebo, please also come prepared for chilly weather & light rain.

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FAQ’s

  • Will we be outside all day?

We will spend some of the morning sketching as we walk through the gardens & the rest of the day under a gazebo.

  • What happens if the weather is bad?

If we decide to postpone the workshop because of heavy rain or wind, I’ll let you know nearer the time & you’ll be offered a full refund.

  • Is there somewhere to buy a drink & lunch?

Yes. There’s a small cafe inside the gardens offering a selection of light lunches, drinks & cakes.

  • Are there toilets nearby?

Our gazebo is situated very close to the portaloo.

  • Where do I park?

The free car park for the gardens is on the right at the bottom of the long avenue.

  • I’m a National Trust member, can I receive a discount?

No. Although Antony House is run by the National Trust, the gardens are run independently. However, your entry fee is included in the workshop price.

 

Cornwall’s best kept secret

Antony Woodland Gardens is a place where time has no bounds; there are no rules or restrictions….just seemingly endless woodlands to explore.

The 100 acre gardens sit adjacent to the National Trust property, Antony House, & provide a natural haven in which to find sanctuary from the pressures of modern life.

Unspoiled woodland sweeps down to the Lynher estuary where you will discover secluded coves and stunning views across the water.

Read about the Gardens HERE