As we find our way out of several years of turmoil and change, many creatives are seeking something more active, something healing, something life-changing. Something that allows us to reconnect with the heart of our creativity.

Life seems to get busier and busier each year for many of us, so the importance of taking time for ourselves has never been greater. Equally, when we live life on autopilot, we often lose sense of what really matters to us and the values we want to live by.

For creative women, our creativity is both the source of lighting up our lives and the balm to the healing we crave.

The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest.

I recently heard this quote from Brother David Steindl-Rast. “The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest. The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness. You’re so exhausted because you can’t be wholehearted at what you’re doing…”

When we are ‘chief in charge of everything’, there is no daylight, no space to be, and no room to find your purpose again.

So what to do?

Withdrawing from activities or other people, with the aim of taking a rest, might seem like a good idea, but it can leave us isolated and without a feeling of connection in the long run. On the other hand, throwing ourselves into classes, courses, or commitments can push us toward burnout.

A creative retreat can offer space for both renewal and invigoration, with the best retreats sending you home with more creative energy, not less.

An art retreat as a kick-start for your creativity.

When it’s too challenging to take the time and space to paint at home, a painting retreat can be a great way to ignite the fire to get going again. And if art materials are included, it’s a great way to test the waters without the costly investment of getting the whole set-up at home.

Laughter as the best medicine.

When a group of women choose the same retreat as you, in the same beautiful location, and with the same enthusiasm for your favourite artist, there’s already a good chance they are the kind of women you will enjoy spending time with. Fun and laughter are a huge part of a retreat’s success.

First Off

What is the difference between a painting holiday, a painting workshop and a painting retreat?

Are you looking for a Painting Workshop or a Painting Retreat?

Naturally, a painting workshop will focus on painting and technique. A painting retreat will offer more than basic accommodation and a painting schedule. If you are looking for personal growth and creative development as well as tuition or to kick start your process, then a painting retreat is going to hold that space. But make sure to choose a facilitator and an itinerary built to deliver that purpose.

What to consider when choosing a Creative Retreat

Will you be painting on this retreat?

Although you are likely to choose an art retreat because you love the the artist’s work. You are unlikely to learn much from them unless you can put what you are learning from them into place by painting yourself. It is also worth noting that not every artists is also a good teacher. Try to find artists who interact with their students as well as demonstrating techniques. You will learn a lot in those retreats.

Is the artist a good facilitator?

Just because you like someone’s art does not mean that they have the skills to run a good retreat. Check to see if your retreat host has run retreats before. Have they taught before? Are there testimonials from people who have had good experiences with them in the context of retreats?

How much is ‘done for you’??

How much of the experience is organised for you? You do not want to take on too much of the organising/booking yourself. It can be exhausting and lead to a lot of stress. Opt for retreats with a carefully curated itinerary, apart from just the painting sessions, including at least some meals and some free time. Remember that aim is that you return home refreshed.

Is the retreat suited to solo travellers?

If you are travelling alone, make sure that the accommodation type suits you. You might want group accommodation to help make friends, or you might prefer a room of your own to take chill time. Don’t underestimate the art of a good facilitator to include solo travellers and bring groups together.

Does the budget suit you?

There are many kinds of retreats. Some are in fact more like painting holidays.

What is and is not included in the fee?

Accommodation, at least some meals, Painting tuition, a facilitated programme with the artist/leader.

Accommodation standards may vary as there can be a trade-off between location and facilities. The word ‘Luxury’ may refer to what is included in the itinerary rather than the accommodation standard. Additional elements may include full board, special dining experiences, evening entertainment, and excursions, including transport to/from excursions; some retreats may also include art materials, in-studio or en plein air setups.

What is usually not included:

Airfare, airport transfers, alcohol, travel/health insurance.

Travelling with paints. Are Materials Included?

Travelling with art materials can be a nightmare. Most airlines have restrictions on paints and solvents that you can bring on board. Easels and other materials can be heavy and cumbersome. Remember that the aim of the art retreat is for you to come home replenished, not exhausted, so look for retreats that include art materials like paints, solvents, and easels so make your life easier.

art retreats are like a boot camp for creativity.

The goal standard is to grow as a painter while also making real connections with other artists, having the time of your life, and visiting gorgeous locations all over the world. Then, when you return home, you’ll have all sorts of great ideas, inspiration, and new friendships, and you’ll feel encouraged to make even more space for your creativity so you can keep going strong!

Take advantage of this amazing opportunity and claim your spot in the Light up Your Light Creative Painting Retreat with Ró now.

Leave your details below and get a special invite

As we find our way out of several years of turmoil and change, many creatives are seeking something more active, something healing, something life-changing. Something that allows us to reconnect with the heart of our creativity.

Life seems to get busier and busier each year for many of us, so the importance of taking time for ourselves has never been greater. Equally, when we live life on autopilot, we often lose sense of what really matters to us and the values we want to live by.
For creative women, our creativity is both the source of lighting up our lives and the balm to the healing we crave.

These things make for a powerful constellation of forces that bolster and lift a human life, often forging lifelong friendships.

The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest.

I recently heard this quote from Brother David Steindl-Rast. “The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest. The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness. You’re so exhausted because you can’t be wholehearted at what you’re doing…”

When we are ‘chief in charge of everything’, there is no daylight, no space to be, and no room to find your purpose again.

So what to do?

Withdrawing from activities or other people, with the aim of taking a rest, might seem like a good idea, but it can leave us isolated and without a feeling of connection in the long run. On the other hand, throwing ourselves into classes, courses, or commitments can push us toward burnout.

A creative retreat can offer space for both renewal and invigoration, with the best retreats sending you home with more creative energy, not less.

An art retreat as a kick-start for your creativity.

When it’s too challenging to take the time and space to paint at home, a painting retreat can be a great way to ignite the fire to get going again. And if art materials are included, it’s a great way to test the waters without the costly investment of getting the whole set-up at home.=

Laughter as the best medicine.

When a group of women choose the same retreat as you, in the same beautiful location, and with the same enthusiasm for your favourite artist, there’s already a good chance they are the kind of women you will enjoy spending time with. Fun and laughter are a huge part of a retreat’s success.

What to consider when choosing a Creative Retreat

Is the artist a good facilitator?

Just because you like someone’s art does not mean that they have the skills to run a good retreat. Check to see if your retreat host has run retreats before. Have they taught before? Are there testimonials from people who have had good experiences with them in the context of retreats?

How much is ‘done for you’?

How much of the experience is organised for you? You do not want to take on too much of the organising/booking yourself. It can be exhausting and lead to a lot of stress. Opt for retreats with a carefully curated itinerary, apart from just the painting sessions, including at least some meals and some free time. Remember that aim is that you return home refreshed.

Is the retreat suited to solo travellers?

If you are travelling alone, make sure that the accommodation type suits you. You might want group accommodation to help make friends, or you might prefer a room of your own to take chill time. Don’t underestimate the art of a good facilitator to include solo travellers and bring groups together.

Are you looking for a Painting Workshop or a Painting Retreat?

Naturally, a painting workshop will focus on painting and technique. A painting retreat will offer more than basic accommodation, a painting schedule. If you are looking for personal growth and creative development as well as tuition or to kick start your process, then make sure to choose a facilitator and an itinerary built to hold that space.

Are Materials Included

Travelling with art materials can be a nightmare. Most airlines have restrictions on paints and solvents that you can bring on board. Easels and other materials can be heavy and cumbersome. Remember that the aim of the art retreat is for you to come home replenished, not exhausted, so look for retreats that include art materials like paints, solvents, and easels so make your life easier.

Does the budget suits you?

Make sure you check what is and is not included in the fee.

What is usually included:
Accommodation, at least some meals, tuition, a programme with the artist/facillitaor. Accommodation standards may vary as there can be a trade-off between location and facilities. The word ‘Luxury’ may refer to what is included in the itinerary rather than the accommodation standard. Additional elements may include full board, special dining experiences, evening entertainment, and time excursions including transport to/from excursions; some retreats may also include art materials, in studio or en plein air setups.

What is usually not included:
Airfare, airport transfers, alcohol, travel/health insurance

Will you be painting on this retreat?

Although you are likely to choose an art retreat because you love the the artist’s work. You are unlikely to learn much from them unless you can put what you are learning from them into place by painting yourself. It is also worth noting that not every artists is also a good teacher.

Try to find artists who interact with their students as well as demonstrating techniques. You will learn a lot in those retreats.

art retreats are like a boot camp for creativity.

The goal standard is to grow as a painter while also making real connections with other artists, having the time of your life, and visiting gorgeous locations all over the world. Then, when you return home, you’ll have all sorts of great ideas, inspiration, and new friendships, and you’ll feel encouraged to make even more space for your creativity so you can keep going strong!

Take advantage of this amazing opportunity and claim your spot in the Light up Your Light Creative Painting Retreat with Ró now.

Leave your details below and get a special invite

Current Availability

Malta: Limited
Kerry: Last few rooms
Catskills: Fully sold out

A Painting Retreat
With Irish Artist Róisín O’Farrell

Are you a creative woman? Are you ready to revive your painting practice? To let down the weight you carry? To broaden your inner and outer world and build a life that gives you a broader sense of meaning and significance?

If so, you’re in for a treat! Join me for an unforgettable experience at our Kerry Artists Retreat – designed to awaken your creativity, rejuvenate your spirit, and inspire your soul.

Why RE-treating
A retreat allows us to grow deeper, create bonds with other like-minded retreat seekers, and build a deeper connection to ourselves. There’s a magic that happens when you are away from the doing. When you don’t need to worry about what to eat, preparing, cleaning, or the work of everyday living.

Retreat allows you to let go.
Let go of carrying all the details and simply show up and be where someone you trust is taking care of everything. It is my mission to hold space for you to do this. Let me take care of everything and walk you through a beautiful experience.

Where Painting Workshop, Cultural Getaway and Nurturing Retreat meet.
The combination of imaginative stimulation that painting together brings. The solace and mercy found in healing words and the companionship of other extraordinary women. The physical sense of unfolding and beauty that comes through the wild Atlantic sea air and majestic Kerry mountains and the appetite they give for good food, good drink and good conversation.

These things make for a powerful constellation of forces that bolster and lift a human life, often forging lifelong friendships.

A Unique Blend of Painting and Cultural Exploration

Over the last decade, I’ve taught thousands of painters the skills to paint with confidence and ease. To fit their painting practice into their busy lives and overcome their inner critic so they can fully embrace the joy of painting.

The Love To Paint | Learn to Paint Online Course – Special Edition

With this painting retreat, you get the best of both worlds. 

In addition to having a week of painting, in person, with me in Kerry, You will get six weeks of access to the Ltp|Ltp Online Course before the retreat and a further six weeks to continue learning and practicing after the retreat. This gives you 13 weeks to deep dive or to use as a refresher. The value of this course is usually $945.

The Love to Paint magic is the combination of encouragement, training, practice and accountability to become the artist you dream to be.

What you get in the Special Edition

Full access to all six modules with video lessons, cheat sheets, resource guides and every tool you need to become an artist with confidence and ease.

This course will allow you to:

• Work through a set of completed exercises to develop your technique.
• Complete six paintings using both the knife and brush.
• Establish a routine that allows time to feed your creativity and practice your painting. 
• Develop a personalised strategy to deal with your inner critic.
• Gain a better understanding of what exactly it means to be an artist

But technique is only ever half the story because it’s all art. The way you laugh, your wardrobe, the way you decorate your home, your energy, the books you read, your playlists, and your friendships. It’s all art. Your whole life is Art.

How long has it been since you laughed hard, exhaled deeply, tended to your creative heart, mind and body with good food, great music, poetry and laughter? The best medicine of all!

Painting Without Boundaries

At our Kerry Artists Retreat, there is more to offer than just painting sessions—it’ll be an immersive experience that blends artistic expression with cultural immersion. Each day begins with a creative blessing, setting the tone for a day filled with painting, adventures, and camaraderie.

From scenic drives along the Ring of Kerry to boat trips to ancient monasteries, the Kerry retreat offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated. Indulge in delicious meals prepared by our private chef, sway to the rhythm of live music, and embark on excursions to discover the hidden treasures of Kerry’s countryside. With each day brimming with adventure and creativity, you’ll return home with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Ireland.

This is the perfect opportunity to take a step back and focus on yourself.
Even Superwoman needs a break sometimes.

Time to Paint
Relaxed (mixed ability) daily painting, indoors and outdoors and studio-based tuition sessions.

Time to Go Deep
Daily gatherings that will include inspirational readings, exercises, reflections, and intention-setting

Time to Have Fun
Laugh, play, explore, and enjoy good company…good times abound! (or something like that…)

Time to Do Nothing
Sit back, relax, brave a sea swim, or just catch up on a nap… There will. be downtime built in!

Time to sway to the music
I am delighted to announce that, with Culture Ireland’s support, I will bring Irish Singer-Songwriter Gráinne Hunt to perform a private gig for us on the final evening.

You’re overdue for some rest. And some fun.

(Re)Treat Yourself is your chance to reset, restore, and replenish your creative energy well while also taking stock of where you are and where you’re headed next.

• Release what’s no longer working.
• Reimagine your life.
• Reclaim your creative energy.

There will be rest, play, creativity, exploration and time to just be… whatever that looks like for you.

Maybe you’ll feel like sleeping in, taking an early walk down to the water, or spending the afternoon in the bar with your new favourite book.

There are no wrong answers here.

Will you fit in?

• Come just as you are – this is a deeply inclusive retreat
• Women of like mind from their 30’s – 70’s
• Work at your own level – beginner to advanced welcome
• Dedicated indoor studio space – painting station and paints supplied

Sample Itinerary

7:00 – 9:00 am – Breakfast
9.00 – 9.30 am – Morning blessing
9:30 – 12:00 am – Morning Session in studio
12:00 – 1:00 pm – Lunch
1:00 – 4.00 pm – Afternoon programme enjoying the beautiful scenic area
4:30 – 6:30 pm – Chill time
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Evening Meal at home Westcove or at Irish pubs & Traditional with music

Leave your details below and get a special invite

Whether you’re an experienced artist or a novice, the Kerry retreat caters to individuals of all skill levels. With dedicated studio space and breathtaking outdoor landscapes as our canvas, we’ll unleash our creativity and paint the beauty of Kerry in all its glory. Although many experienced artists will attend, you do not have to be an experienced artist to attend or enjoy the retreat. It will be a down-to-earth, inclusive experience, designed to bring people together for the joy of painting, living a bigger creative life and enjoying some good company.

Unforgettable Experiences Await

From scenic drives along the Ring of Kerry to boat trips to ancient monasteries, the Kerry retreat offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated. Indulge in delicious meals prepared by our private chef, sway to the rhythm of live music, and embark on excursions to discover the hidden treasures of Kerry’s countryside. With each day brimming with adventure and creativity, you’ll return home with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Ireland.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, creative expression, and cultural immersion, our Kerry Artists Retreat is calling your name. Reserve your spot today and experience the magic of painting, culture, and relaxation in one unforgettable retreat experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to nurture your creativity, connect with like-minded individuals, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

This retreat is an unforgettable pilgrimage over ancient stone and windblown shores, gathering at places of special inherited significance in both Irish history and the Irish celtic cultural imagination.

Location exudes a magical charm that will captivate your senses and ignite your imagination. We’ll embark on a journey through Kerry’s hidden gems, from its historic landmarks to its stunning vistas, all the while tapping into our inner artists and creating masterpieces inspired by the beauty that surrounds us.

Leave your details below and get a special invite

Current Availability

Malta: Limited
Kerry: Last few rooms
Catskills: Fully sold out