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Painting and art holidays and courses in Languedoc, south France |
The painting holidays and courses on offer in Languedoc, in the south of France benefit from some of the world's most beautiful landscapes - dotted with picturesque wine-making villages. Some of the best courses and holidays on offer are listed below. We should mention here that 'Painting courses' tend to be for those wishing to expand their painting skills, where as 'Painting Holidays' are more of an opportunity for existing artists (of any level of experience) to get together with like-minded artists to paint Languedoc's gorgeous landscapes and seascapes.
Some of the painting holidays offered also come with accommodation, but if they don't, the holiday or course organisers are usually happy to help you arrange accommodation in this part of the south of France.
Click on any of the below panels to read more information on each of the painting holidays and courses listed... |
 1: Painting & Drawing with Jackie Devereux
What is it? |
 Celebrated, award-winning artist (and Languedoc resident) Jackie Devereux welcomes small groups to an environment dedicated to getting the creative juices flowing in her painting courses.
Jackie Devereux is experienced in handling mixed-ability groups, with adequate time devoted to individual needs including one-to-one tuition within the group activity. Jackie`s experience spans many years working with small and large groups - she is equally at home taking beginners through the rudiments of each discipline as encouraging more experienced painters through to another level of creativity. |
Where is it? |
 A various venues across the Languedoc region in the south of France. See below... |
Who runs it? |
 Jackie Devereux is a Council Member of the 'Society of Graphic Fine Art' in London, and through her work she actively encourages people to learn to look and see as an artist, and to draw and paint imaginatively.
Jackie is a regular contributor to the specialist art magazine - 'The Artist' and has also written for "Leisure Painter". She appears with several other contemporary artists in "Watercolour Innovations" published by Harper Collins in April 2005. |
When is it? |
- Thursday afternoons starting again January 14th, or Friday afternoon Watercolour course sessions commencing January 15th 2010.
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| How much is it? |
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Who's it for? |
All levels of experience welcome, as are non-painting partners sharing a room during the course. Or if you live in the area full or part-time, enquire about other activities throughout the year. |
Is accommodation offered? |
Yes. You can book accommodation at most of the venues that Jackie uses for her courses, or at gîtes & B&B's near to those venues in Languedoc, the south of France. Please contact Jackie for more information about these painting and art courses. |
Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.watercolour-online.co.uk
Phone: (0033) 4 67 28 10 54
E-mail: jb.devereux@wanadoo.fr |
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2: 'Pottering About' - Pottery & Art holiday
What is it? |
 A week of painting, sculpture, yoga, swimming, playing ping-pong and boules, lounging by the pool, going for long walks, and eating and drinking far too much. |
Where is it? |
 At 'La Maison Verte' - a beautiful old 'Maison Vigneronne' in the busy village of Roujan, close to the popular town of Pézenas, in the Languedoc region of the south of France. |
Who runs it? |
Run by sculptor Teddy Hutton and furniture-maker Nicola Russell. |
When is it? |
July 4-11. |
| How much is it? |
€485 (or £485) per person - including all tuition, bed and half-board. |
Who's it for? |
Anyone who wants a week of art and relaxation. No prior experience necessary. |
Is accommodation offered? |
Yes. Accommodation is part of the package, and is offered at La Maison Verte itself. |
Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.lamaisonverte.co.uk
Phone: 00 33 (0)4 67 24 72 18
E-mail: nicolerussell@orange.fr |
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3: Art Holidays at Le Cerisier
What is it? |
 Le Cerisier offers a complete package for Art groups looking for a relaxed holidaycourse, painting at some of the most beautiful locations Languedoc and the south of France have to offer. Accommodation in le Cerisier Chambre d’Hôtes includes breakfast, picnic lunches and four course evening meal. Transport to and from locations is also provided.
Typical locations may include the Medieval town of Béziers, the Canal du Midi, the Orb Valley and villages, Carcassonne or the harbour at Valras Plage. The region is rich with inspiring locations waiting to be discovered.
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Where is it? |
 St Geniès de Fontadit - a small wine-making village 20 minutes from the city of Béziers, Languedoc, south France. |
Who runs it? |
This is not an art course, but an opportunity to share skills and techniques with fellow artists, including Damian, the owner, who is an experienced and enthusiastic artist. |
When is it? |
They run the art course to suit you - so please let them know when you'd like to come, and they'll arrange the course for those dates. |
| How much is it? |
€80 per day per group member inclusive of accommodation and all meals, transport to and from Béziers, Carcassonne or Montpellier airport, daily transport to and from locations. |
Who's it for? |
Groups of 4 to 9 can be catered for. |
Is accommodation offered? |
Yes. Stay in the owners' house (3 double bedrooms and 1 twin room) or in their stand-alone 'gîte' apartment.
- €45 per room per night - November to April
- €55 per room per night - May to October
Gîte Apartment
- Large beautiful, beamed apartment with double bedroom leading onto a roof terrace, lounge/kitchen with double sofa bed settee and bathroom.
- €280 per week - November to April
- €350 per week - May to October
- Continental Breakfast, of hot beverages, fruit juices, cereals, warm baguettes and croissants, conserves, fresh fruit and yogurts.
- Cooked breakfast available (€7)
- Evening Meal - 4 courses €20 per person with wine. All meals home cooked using fresh ingredients. Seafood a speciality.
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Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.lecerisier-stgenies.com/
Phone: 00 33 (0)4 67 48 27 52
E-mail: enquiries@lecerisier-stgenies.com |
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4: 'Paint France' with David & Sally McEwen
What is it? |
 Painting courses run by David McEwen, in their home in the town of Lodève, Languedoc, the south of France. Weekly courses include B&B accommodation and all meals and wine.
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Where is it? |
 Lodève is a small town of approximately 7500 inhabitants, most of whom work in the local vineyards, situated about 30 miles northwest of Montpellier. |
Who runs it? |
 David McEwen
Recently described by Artist International Magazine as a "Master Painter of the World", David has been awarded major prizes and was "Runner-up" in The Society of All Artists "Painter of the Year" competition in 2003.
 Sally McEwen
A long-time francophile (her grandmother was French) and a gourmet cook, (the evidence of that is David's waist measurement is now much higher than his I.Q.) and a riding instructor, Sally sorts out the details, solves problems, cooks wonderful meals … in other words, she's in charge and does the hard work, while David wanders about getting in the way!
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When is it? |
The art courses run throughout the year. |
| How much is it? |
Weekly Rates for David's Painting Workshop - 2010:
Includes tuition, accommodation, breakfast, light lunch and dinner with wine, in local restaurants and the artist's home.
- November — March:
€690
- April, October:
€760
- May — September:
€890
Weekly Rates for Accompanying Partner:
- November — March:
€470
- April, October:
€530
- May — September:
€600
Extra charges for airport pickups if required. |
Who's it for? |
David's painting, drawing and art courses are designed for beginners and experienced painters alike and are adjusted to suit you and your needs.
Previous course members have been students with a wide range of abilities; beginners who needed to learn the basics, others requiring technical advice and experienced painters wanting guidance or consultation from a professional painter and teacher. |
Is accommodation offered? |
 Yes. B&B - see above.
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Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.paintfrance.com
Phone: 00 33 (0)4 67 44 41 70
E-mail: sally.mcewen@wanadoo.fr |
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5: Petra Carter Art Courses
What is it? |
Mixed art courses that are aimed at those with no or little experience, devoting each day to a different art practice (such as photography, painting, printmaking and creative writing) thus providing the student with basic skills in various subjects in order to find out which one he or she may want to explore further.
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Where is it? |
 In Mirepeisset, close to Narbonne in the Languedoc |
Who runs it? |
Petra Carter, who has a BA in Fine Art. |
When is it? |
- 2010 TRANSITION YEAR course - March 8-29th
This is a comprehensive 3-week stay for TRANSITION YEAR students who want to improve their French in a practical and constructive way. The course includes tuition in written and spoken French, painting, creative writing, photography and essential cooking skills, as well as many varied cultural outings - a bit like a 3-week finishing school.
For a detailed description see TRANSITION YEAR
All courses are limited to 7 participants and include all accommodation, meals (including wine), all ground transport (airport and excursions).
- 2010 ART WEEK - 5-12 November
This is a fun-filled week where each day is devoted to a different art practice (painting, creative writing, artful cooking, printmaking and photography). Students will pick up many skills but the course is principally aimed at giving beginners an insight in the different fields and to discover which they may like to explore or pursue further. For a detailed itinerary please click on ART COURSE.
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| How much is it? |
1100 euros ALL INCLUSIVE (except for flights)
WHAT THE WEEK INCLUDES
7 nights accommodation in the tasteful surroundings of B&B La Souqueto.
all tutorials and all materials
all meals including wine
all transport (airport transfers and excursions) |
Who's it for? |
People with all levels of cooking experience. |
Is accommodation offered? |
 Yes. At the owner's B&B 'La Souqueto' (meaning The Little Vine in local Patois) which is a sensitively restored and renovated Maison Bourgeoise. It offers great food, a friendly atmosphere and artistic inspiration.
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Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.petracarter.com
Phone: (0033) 4 68 40 77 18
E-mail: info@petracarter.com |
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6: Painting Courses at Mas Saurine
What is it? |
 Painting courses - each run by a professional painter who specialises in a particular medium.
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Where is it? |
 In a small village about 30 minutes drive east of Perpignan (and Perpignan Airport). This is a beautiful area of Languedoc, just beneath the towering Pyrénées - with lots to do nearby, including the Orgues de Roussillon, St Martin de Canigou, the Priory of Serrabone and the Train Jaune. The coastal town of Collioure is also not far. |
Who runs it? |
Robert and Carolynn Hinde-Smith are your hosts, and tutors include Anne Blockley, Soraya French, Jackie Devereux and Penny Wilton |
When is it? |
Painting Courses for 2010
March Beginners and Improvers week with Carolynn
A studio based course to brush up on drawing, observation and basic painting techniques. We will also go out, weather permitting to do some sketching of snow capped mountains and spring blossom.
June plein air painting with Carolynn
For all mediums and abilities, a week in the countryside to capture the stunning mountain ranges and picturesque villages, old abbeys and churches. Carolynn will be on hand to help you every step of the way.
6th - 13th June A watercolour workshop with Jackie Devereux
A workshop on contemporary watercolour techniques and new approaches to encourage the use of bright bold transparent colours with this excellent artist and tutor.
12th-19th September Painting the Light with John Richards
A week of guided tuition from this talented and experienced tutor.
Suitable for all levels and all mediums.
9th - 16th October Watercolour Techniques with Ann Blockley
A week of watercolour techniques for the more experienced artist. |
| How much is it? |
Please contact the hosts for prices. |
Who's it for? |
Beginner - to - intermediate artists. |
Is accommodation offered? |
Yes. You'll stay at your hosts' beautiful farmhouse, with garden and pool. Prices include full board. Collection from Perpignan airport and station included. |
Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.Mas-Saurine.com
Phone: (0033) 4 68 05 85 66
E-mail: carolynnhindesmith@hotmail.com |
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7: Painting Courses at Domaine Bigno Garrigo
What is it? |
Painting holidays at a gîte complex in a Languedoc village - tutored by a professional artist. |
Where is it? |
 At Domaine Bigno Garrigo - a gîte complex in the town of Quarante - close to the Canal du Midi, Béziers and Narbonne. |
Who runs it? |
 Nicola Blakemore is the professional artist tutor.
She originally trained as a graphic artist, and became involved with interior design, specialist paint effects and creating murals for clients in both the UK and overseas. She has taught art at college level, at a school for children with special needs and worked with private groups.
Now installed in the Languedoc she continues to create murals, specialist paint effects, teach art and paint. She is accomplished in a variety of media and styles including portraiture, has exhibited her work in both England and France. |
When is it? |
 May 18- May 25
- June 1
- June 8
- June 15
- Sept 7
- Sept 14
- Sept 21
- Sept 28
- Oct 5
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| How much is it? |
£650 per person per week (£495 non-painting partners)
The price includes:
- Full Board Accommodation (7 days / 6 nights): Bed, Breakfast,
Lunch and Evening Meals
- Use of our studio
- Unlimited refreshments
- Internet Access (free WiFi connection)
- Parking
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Who's it for? |
Beginners to intermediates. |
Is accommodation offered? |
 Yes. In one of the 4 holiday gîtes on the property. Each is self-catering, with its own outside space, as well as a shared garden and pool.
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Where can I get more info? |
Website: www.bignogarrigo.com
Phone: (0033) 4 68 05 85 66
E-mail: holidays@bignogarrigo.com |
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8: Pottery Courses from Dragon Ceramic
What is it? |
'Raku' pottery courses for all levels of experience, in a village just north of the gorgeous town of Uzès. The courses culminate in the raku firing of your pieces – always a spectacular event for those who have never experienced a raku firing. |
Where is it? |
 It is in the centre of Vallabrix, an old agricultural village surrounded by vineyards, fruit orchards and olive groves. Most of this land is unfenced offering a variety of walks. |
Who runs it? |
 The courses are organized by Caroline Fawkes and Simon Pugh, who were for many years lecturers at Central St.Martin's College of Art and Design in London. They taught on (amongst other B.A. programmes) an innovative 5-year part-time course in Fine Art and Critical Sudies. Since then Caroline has developed a ceramics practice while Simon has indulged his passion for cooking, specializing in local produce.
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When is it? |
 4-day courses running over 5 days.
2010 dates:
June 28 - July 2
July 19 - 23
August 2 - 6
September 14 - 18 |
| How much is it? |
£280, inclusive of materials, firings, meals and refreshments. |
Who's it for? |
Any levels. Complete beginners welcome. |
Is accommodation offered? |
 OPTION 1 (for those with their own transport):
You can reserve one of our rooms on site or in the village. Rates 30-55€ per night (reductions for shared occupancy). Breakfast 5€ per person.
- OPTION 2:
Standard accommodation is included in the RESIDENTIAL course fee, assuming single occupancy and possible shared use of bathroom facilities with one other course member.
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Where can I get more info? |
 Website: www.dragonceramic.com
Phone: (0033) 4 66 75 03 85
E-mail: info@dragonceramic.com |
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9: Peint en France - at Maison Dix
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