insideKENT Magazine Issue 52 - July 2016 | Page 20

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT
creative breaks cont.
Learn Writing // The Isle of Wight

Brambles Art Retreat // Lifton, Devon

Enjoy a long weekend or midweek break on the intriguing and wonderful
Isle of Wight and learn how to write poetry, fiction, fact, scripts, or biographies.
The writing courses can be tailored to suit your requirements, and can be
in a group setting or one to one – depending entirely on what your focus
and needs are. The in-depth workshops and discussions include where to
get story ideas, the critical elements of a story, finding markets, who you
are writing for, adding emotion and creating characters. The courses take
place in a comfortable, cosy home environment and the price (from £185)
includes breakfast – evenings meals can be added as an extra. The house
itself is just minutes from the sea.
www.learnwriting.co.uk // 01983 407772

Although based in Devon, this fantastic art retreat actually hosts courses
across the UK, and even in exotic foreign climes such as Paris, Corfu and
Tuscany. Each of the courses focuses on different media or different locations
– and the tutors are on hand to ensure you are able to capture the beautiful
places you are visiting in just the right way. Named as one of the top 10 art
retreats in the UK by The Guardian, this is definitely one not to miss! Prices
start at around £1,100 per person, and non-painters are more than welcome
to join their painting friends at a reduced rate. The relaxed atmosphere and
excellent hosts mean that this is a retreat to return to again and again.
www.bramblesartretreat.co.uk // 01566 784359

Coombe Farm Studios // Dartmouth, Devon

Benslow Music // Hitchin, Hertfordshire

Coombe Farm Studios opened in 1983 and was the first of its kind, offering
week-long residential courses that were artist led. Now it is more popular
than ever, and the range of courses on offer has expanded to include
subjects such as printmaking, ceramics, watercolours, oils, mixed media
and acrylic work. There is even a weekly yoga class you can attend to relax
and unwind should you wish to. This retreat is located in the most beautiful
of settings which helps to kindle great creativity. The price of each course
includes home-from-home style accommodation with shared bathroom
facilities (all towels and dressing gowns are included). If you prefer to have
an en suite, there are some lovely B&Bs located nearby and you can attend
the courses as a day guest. Prices start at £290 for a weekend course.
www.coombefarmstudios.com // 01803 722352

No matter what instrument you favour, you are sure to find an exceptional
course for you at Benslow Music. Courses include strings, keyboards,
vocals, jazz, music appreciation, composing and arranging and conducting.
The courses are well thought out and fascinating, and the accommodation
meets a very high standard too. You can stay in either a traditional Victorian
bedroom or a more modern room – there are single, double, en suite and
standard rooms to choose from. There is a shop in reception for essentials,
and all food is included in the cost of your residential course (from £275).
www.benslowmusic.org // 01462 459446

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