Step into a weekend of art, creativity and self-expression through the timeless medium of oil paint. This immersive portrait retreat invites you to slow down, observe deeply and explore painting as a language of mood, presence and personal expression.
Set within the breathtaking surroundings of Inish Beg Estate in West Cork, the retreat offers space to disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with your creative voice. From tranquil woodland trails to views of the wild Atlantic, the natural beauty of the island provides constant inspiration. Whether you are returning to oil painting or picking up a brush for the first time, this weekend is designed to support and nurture your artistic growth.
Guided by figurative painter Bríd Higgins Ní Chinnéide, the retreat focuses on portraiture from life, working directly with live models in a calm, supportive setting. Across the weekend, you’ll explore gesture, light, colour and composition while developing both quick studies and a more sustained portrait painting.
The retreat opens with a relaxed Artist Talk: What Is a Portrait? where Bríd shares her work and influences, drawing from classical portrait traditions through to contemporary figurative painting. This grounding session offers insight into the expressive and emotional potential of portraiture.
Sessions focus on light and gesture, beginning with demonstrations and quick, responsive studies from life. You’ll learn how to create expressive thumbnail sketches in paint, developing spontaneity, mood and painterly instinct while exploring composition and colour relationships.
The weekend then moves into a long-pose portrait, working from a clothed model across multiple sessions. Bríd demonstrates how to map composition, block in colour and gradually build structure and atmosphere over time. With ongoing guidance and one-to-one feedback, participants develop a more resolved painting while learning to read form intuitively rather than mechanically.
The retreat concludes with a review and refine session, offering space to revisit your work with fresh eyes, receive constructive feedback and bring your portrait towards completion.
Known for her expressive, emotionally resonant portraits, Bríd Higgins Ní Chinnéide brings a thoughtful, encouraging teaching style that blends classical technique with a contemporary sensibility. Her workshops emphasise developing a personal visual language and moving beyond likeness to capture presence and energy.
This all-inclusive weekend includes all teaching sessions and live model demonstrations, accommodation at Inish Beg Estate, and nourishing meals prepared by Ballymaloe trained chef, Ophelia Keane of Carpa Participants also enjoy full access to the estate’s grounds, woodland trails, wall gardens, indoor swimming pool and optional Atlantic dips—along with generous time for reflection and inspiration between sessions.
Retreat Fees range from €900–€1100, depending on room type, with options for private lodges, private rooms, and shared accommodation.
For booking and more information: www.inishbeg.com/retreats