Ocres du Luberon

Oil Painting Retreat in the Heart of Provence

Immerse yourself in the art of oil painting while spending a week in the enchanting Provençal countryside, surrounded by fragrant lavender fields. From mid-June to early July, these iconic blooms are at their peak, and during certain weeks, you'll have the chance to visit the magnificent Abbaye de Sénanque basking in the height of its splendour. Here, we'll study light and colour under the shade of its ancient stone walls, a painter's dream.

A Historic Setting for Creativity

For this artistic retreat, I have chosen a stunning 18th-century stone house, nestled atop a gentle hill. The property is surrounded by a vast estate of meadows, orchards, lavender fields, and oak forests. Part of the garden will be transformed into our open-air studio, completed with 12 easels ready for use. This unique setting offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and creative inspiration, perfect for artists of all levels.

Provence: More Than Lavender

While the lavender fields are undeniably poetic, Provence offers so much more to inspire a painter. This region is renowned for producing some of the finest natural pigments, particularly ochres and earth tones. Our programme will embrace these unique opportunities by including:

  • A plein air painting session at the Abbaye de Sénanque.
  • A walk along the famous Ochre Trail in Roussillon and a visit to the Mines de Bruoux.
  • A guided tour of an antique pastel factory, a historic workshop that supplied fine art materials to 19th-century Paris.
  • Explorations of the charming villages of Luberon.
  • An evening of stargazing with an astronomer, offering a fresh perspective on Van Gogh's iconic starry skies.

A Cultural and Artistic Experience

This retreat is not a bulk tour, nor is it operated by a travel agency. It is a cultural initiative, organised by an art school, offering the chance to learn and create art in stunning, inspiring locations while connecting with like-minded individuals.

Tailored to All Skill Levels

This course is designed for everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned artists. With small groups, we can provide close guidance and support to each student.

  • Beginners will be guided step by step through the entire process of creating a painting, from preparing the canvas to applying the final varnish, with no prior knowledge assumed.
  • Experienced artists can work independently, taking on challenging projects or painting from life.

All materials are included and are of professional quality, ensuring you have everything you need to make the most of your time in Provence.

Join Us

Escape to this serene and inspiring corner of France, where art, culture, and nature converge to create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're just starting your artistic journey or looking to refine your craft, this retreat is the perfect opportunity to deepen your connection to painting and immerse yourself in the beauty of Provence.