Margaret River Art Camp is back for a second year!
Last year sold out quickly.
Only 7 spots.
Imagine this. It's a stunning spring morning on the property, you look out the window and see kangaroos in the field. We all meet together with our steaming hot cuppas' (probably still snuggled in a robe) and sit down in the quiet morning to gently paint our 'morning flights' (Natalia's signature water colour process) enjoying watching the colours swirl and dance on the pages.
Later in the day, after a meander through the forest, we pile into the car and head off to the Margaret River Region Open Studios ( check it out here www.mrropenstudios.com.au). There is a little treasure map to follow, as Natalia has curated an inspiring trail of artist studios for us to visit. The energy of the event is so exciting, as artists open their studio doors to the public; our journals become full with moments of inspiration. These little snippets inform our own explorations back at base camp. The weekend is a combination of our own artistic explorations, being inspired by other artists, and spending slow time in nature; both the forest and the beach.
3 nights accommodation in Margaret River, on a beautiful property nestled by National Forest. Amazing.
All your meals. We have a delish caterer on board, (sunny.peach.kitchen) who will nourish us with wholesome and fresh vegetarian fare. How good is it not having to cook for breakfast, lunch and dinner?
All your art materials.You just turn up without having to source an exhaustive list of art materials. It's all organized for you. BONUS: you get your own little bag to take home, so you can keep the good vibes alive and continue creating!
Creative guidance and teaching. Natalia guides you through a smorgasbord of drawing/painting practices to keep you inspired, expressing and connected.
Retreat car. This means we can all get around together, and you don't have to drive. phew.
Your happy host for this delicious weekend away, is Natalia Fidyka. A life long creative and mid-career psychologist she has been facilitating creativity workshops and retreats for over 10 years.
Natalias workshops are known to be playful and welcoming, rewarding, and often are sprinkled with awakening life metaphors and personal epiphanies.
Don't let the silliness fool you, transformations can be fun!
The Art Camp retreats have emerged from her painting-based teachings and love affair with being in nature and getting a little intrepid in her travels.
Art Camp (although you will be in a beautiful room, not actually camping!) means you will be a little intrepid and adventurous, as you explore your inner landscape with a brush and pencil!
There is a beautiful process that occurs in creativity that is so easily applied to life; and Natalia helps you tap into this natural intelligence, by guiding you through a series of simple and satisfying art practices. They can stand alone, producing colourful vibrant art works, or these practices can be used as a springboard to more inspiration and creativity.
This photo is taken at incredible Rebecca Cool's home in Margaret RIver.
"I came because I wanted to spend time doing art and connecting to that part of me, and learning some techniques and I feel that I have really achieved that, I feel more confident to start doing art for myself, as often as I feel to, and that for me is an absolute gift, a joy and a freedom. Im so glad I did, its so worth it, and I would do it again!" - Indigo Grace
" I feel so much more gentle and playful, and in touch with a slower rhythm of life and nature. I just feel like all the exercises we did, all the different processes we did helped us tap into our creativity, and not worry about the outcome so much. Because before I was focussed on it being ‘good’ and ‘sellable’ . I loved playing with colour and splashing it everywehere – just really feeling creative again. Its so beautiful. - Prita Grealy
"Creating new friendships, and feeling loved and supported" -Angi
"I've been privileged enough to attend a few of Natalias workshops and everyone of them has been nourishing to the core. One of those spaces where you can lose yourself to creativity, juicyness and the flow. Whether you are looking to develop your art skills or just want to reconnect with your own sense of inner peace, I highly recommend getting yourself to one of Natalia's workshops" - Brooke Murphy
What about the accommodation?
We are staying at the beautiful Margaret River Retreat. Beautifully appointed, sustainability minded and eco-conscious 'stable' conversions, with twin share rooms. Each room has one king bed, and one king single. Think simple, yet rustic and gorgeous. Margaret River Retreat is a unique destination for holiday makers, adventure seekers, comfort campers and extraordinary events. The character-filled, white weatherboard enclave wraps around a circular and enclosed garden, café, yoga and gallery space, in nature. Margaret River Retreat is a Retreat Venue within reach of the majestic Boranup Forest National Park and surrounding Margaret River Wine Region of Western Australia. Check them out here www.margaretriverretreat.com.au
In between activities there will be time for you to go for a meander around the bush trails found on the property. We also get spoilt with a big fire in the evenings.
Absolutely not. Natalia's 'whole thing' is about opening up creativity in people who don't feel like they can. Creativity is our essential human nature, and unfortunately, most individuals have been disconnected from the inner artist.
The only prerequisite for this retreat is that you are interested in being creative. Natalia will give you oodles of guidance, support and prompts if you need them. If you are self-sufficient, she will give you the space to go for gold.
Do I need to bring art materials?
Natalia will provide you with all you need to participate fully in the retreat. You will receive your own paints, brush and journal to keep, plus an ample supply of materials for group activities. You really just need to turn up!
Is fitness important?
There won't be any hiking, but there will be a short walk to the beach and some walking over rocks and soft sand. There is scrambling in and out of the car, and walking around studios and gardens.
Is it only twin share?
Yes. the rooms are beautiful and spacious, but only twin share is available. Bringing a friend can be a fun idea if you are worried. But what usually happens is that you make a brand new friend!
Are there payment plans?
If necessary, payment plans can be arranged. Payment in full needs to be completed a month prior to retreat going ahead. Contact Natalia directly to discuss.
Insurance?
This retreat takes full care to keep you safe and sound, although life does happen. Natalia and the retreats she offers take no responsibility for injuries or damages incurred.
Refunds?
Refunds are available 6 weeks prior to retreat starting date.
Are we camping?
There is no actual camping. You will be in lovely rooms with hot showers hehe.
Banjo. He is a snuggly and life loving Black Lab X rescue dog. He goes everywhere with Natalia, especially since he began his career as a therapy assistant when she is doing her counselling work. His furry presence is lovely in the studio, and he stays home and snoozes while we adventure around the region.