This year's wonderful group, with a week's worth of sketchbooks.
There is something truly special about making art together. My September painting holiday at Atelier Clos Mirabel was a beautiful reminder that creativity thrives when we bring like-minded people together in a supportive, inspiring environment.
A recipe for creative magic
It's a bit like a recipe. Bring together the right mix of people, a stunning setting, delicious food, laughter, curiosity and a generous helping of creative play, and something magical happens. We share ideas, learn from one another, cross-pollinate and discover possibilities we might never have found alone. It's almost like a year's worth of art school squeezed into one wonderful week!
Mixed media play in a concertina sketchbook.
Nourishing far more than our creative souls
And the benefits go far beyond what we put on paper. Giving ourselves time to explore, experiment and step outside our usual routines helps us form new connections in the brain, strengthening our ability to think differently, solve problems and see the world with fresh curiosity. Add the joy of human connection, laughter and a sense of belonging, and we're nourishing far more than our creative souls. We're feeding our wellbeing, lifting our spirits and keeping our minds curious and open to new possibilities. (As well as trying out a few new dance moves this year thanks to Johns impromptu routine half way through our art session !!)
Food that nourishes body and soul.
As an artist and teacher, I love sharing my knowledge and techniques, but I gain so much from these weeks, too. The friendships, discoveries, memories and collective creative energy stay with me long after everyone has gone home. It's a little bit of heaven that keeps me fuelled until we meet again.
What this year's painters said…
Here are a few wonderful words from some of this year's participants. Their reflections say it far better than I ever could.
“For the first time in my art career, I created without questioning every mark. Jenny’s quirky, inspirational demonstrations unlocked something in me and freed my creativity. I haven’t stopped working in my journal since returning home, and there will definitely be a next time!”
“What a fabulous week! Great company, accommodation, food and wine, but we came for the art, and Jenny was totally inspirational. Her boundless enthusiasm and depth of knowledge meant everyone, from beginners to accomplished artists, learned something”
“A real recharge of the batteries! Relaxing, fun and full of inspiration. Jenny was an amazing, inclusive tutor, sharing wonderful techniques. The location and food at Clos Mirabel were outstanding. I loved every minute and hope to return!”
“Jenny is a brilliant, kind, funny and truly gifted teacher. Her instruction was exciting, inspiring and fun, and her encouragement put everyone at ease. I learned so much and loved every minute. Wonderful classmates, beautiful surroundings, fabulous food. Pure magic, a week I’ll remember forever!”
Painting holidays in the Pyrenees: September 2027 and April 2028
Fancy giving yourself this gift? There are still a couple of places left on my September 2027 painting holiday, and I'm also taking bookings for April 2028. If you'd love time to create, reflect, experiment and laugh with lovely people, surrounded by the beauty of the Pyrenees and food that nourishes body and soul, you'll find all the details below.
Painting Holidays - Creative Mixed Media Techniques with Jenny Muncaster 2027 - Atelier Clos Mirabel
There are still a couple of places left on my September 2027 painting holiday, and bookings are open for April 2028.
