Tammy Bottner Retreat 11 – 20 October 2027

Intuitive painting

As someone who discovered the right side of my brain relatively late in the game, I invite all beginner painters and non painters to join me for a week of pure fun. We will engage in creative play, learn to let go of expectations, to be loose, and to enjoy the process of creation. I know you will discover the right side of your brain too!

Using acrylic paints and inks we will explore color theory, color mixing, mark making, abstraction,  and intuitive creating – inspired, of course, by the colors,  textures, architecture & natural beauty of rural France. Be prepared to take lots of photos as inspiration!

Are you familiar with the Japanese term, wabi-sabi? It means finding the beauty in authenticity and imperfection – and that is exactly what we will attempt to embrace during the retreat.

So cast your fears aside, and jump right in.

Instruction & Studio Painting

Delicious Homemade Dinners

Daily Excursions

To Beautiful Locations

A Day out Looks Like this:

You’ll start your day with a breakfast of freshly baked French pastries, homemade yoghurt, or fresh fruit, which you can enjoy in the conservatory as you watch the sun rise. We’ll head out around 9 am when the places we visit are quiet and the weather is perfect.

You can spend a morning exploring a new place by walking around the side streets to get a feel for the local atmosphere or by sitting in a quiet spot to do some sketching. There’s always a beautiful picnic lunch of fresh salads, quiches, homemade cookies, and much more waiting in the shade when you’re ready to eat (wine, of course!).

Then, in the afternoons, we generally head back to the studio for some creative time as well as some time to use the pool, nap or find a quiet spot for reading, sunbathing, painting or chatting.

In the evening, we put on a homemade, locally sourced 3-course meal complete with wine. Katel really is the star of the show; you won’t be disappointed with her cooking!

After dinner, you’re free to head back to the studio to paint, enjoy the sunset or use the hot tub. There are plenty of little walks to go on, lots of nature to experience or time to catch up with family and friends.

We design our workshops so that everyone gets what they want out of their time with us.

Some Excursion Locations

Excursions may include but are not limited to the following

Rocamadour

Part of the Camino Trail. Historical & religious significance. Breathtaking village perched on a cliff.

Sarlat

One of the most well preserved medieval towns in France. Amazing market with local produce.

Beynac Castle

Home of Richard the Lionheart, perfect for a picnic by the river and plein air painting in the shade.

Saint Cirq Lapopie

One of the most beautiful villages in France. Incredibly picturesque. Perfect for shopping & painting.