Holiday inspiration

 Arriving home this week after a month travelling Spain and Portugal was indeed a shock to the system. Adjusting to the frosty mornings after 30 degrees was a little hard to take.
With 5000 photos and memories to last a lifetime I am excited to get back into some painting!
A workshop with Sydney artist,  Peter Griffen on the Algarve of Portugal ,was a highlight of my trip. 'The Art  house' was situated in a little fishing village called Olhao. If ever there was an artist's dream this was the place. A studio running onto 2 courtyards with bougainvillea spilling over the walls, original artworks on the walls, Portuguese artefacts and furniture scattered throughout the house. a library of art references, rooms to relax, rooftop terraces and 2 pools. We didn't need to go out of the house for inspiration, but when we did the authentic little village didn't disappoint. The peeling coloured paint on the decorative buildings was a painting waiting to happen. Storks nesting in chimneys and churches to sit and contemplate. The boats , fresh fruit and fish markets were a feast for the eyes and imagination.
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We ventured to 2 islands and a neighbouring village with our Granny bags  filled with painting gear to paint a dream. A nice break for lunch overlooking the water with vino tinto and then a much enhanced afternoon of painting back in the studio!
Each day held a new adventure and more food and wine! Margarita was always at home waiting to feed us the amazing Portuguese fare she did so well.
An amazing group of people gathering to soak up and share every story about art.
We can't always get away with talking art all day around our friends so this week was not only special but educational and social!
Where else can you paint, drink, eat, swim, wander cobblestone streets, paint, take a boat ride to the island, paint, drink, eat and be inspired every moment of the day!
Peter and Denise worked side by side, Denise teaching the art of Felting. They were both professional and generous in sharing their talents. We not only painted but learnt the steps involved in felting as well.
Peter  and Denise will be running their workshops again in May 2019 and it is well worth considering.