Led by internationally renowned artist and arts educator Elaine Foster-Gandey, we will explore fluid and intuitive art-making through guided exercises, collaboration, and creative tool-making. Through this process, we will delve into our unconscious minds to retrieve golden nuggets of inspiration, helping us deepen our artistic practice.

‘Elaine Foster-Gandey is possibly the most engaging, encouraging and all embracing teacher I have been privileged to know. Her approach to art is so freeing and her appreciation of her student’s work so inspiring, one cannot fail to make discoveries about new and exciting directions to take’ Tessa Hillman

Imagine embarking on a magical pre-Christmas art retreat, where a luxurious drive through an enchanting estate sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. As you approach the grand Boconnoc house, its stately front door beckons with the promise of warm hospitality—glowing fires and the aroma of sumptuous food hints at the feast to come. Every moment is steeped in opulent pampering, making this retreat a cherished memory and a well-deserved indulgence in festive elegance.

Exclusivity is at the heart of this retreat, reserved solely for art course participants and their partners. With only seven exquisitely appointed bedrooms in this vast stately home, you’re not sharing your surroundings with the outside world. Instead, the entire estate transforms into your private haven, offering an intimate sanctuary where every corner whispers elegance and privacy. This is your chance to immerse yourself in a world of creative inspiration and luxurious seclusion—a rare opportunity to truly experience the magic of your own private estate.

What’s Included:

Guided Creative Exploration – Unlock your artistic flow with intuitive mark-making, collaborative art, and deep creative exercises.
Personal Creative Tool-Making – Craft your own set of artistic tools to take home, ensuring your inspiration continues beyond the retreat.
Time to Simply Be – Soak in the magic of the vast estate, take peaceful walks, and embrace stillness as a source of creativity.
Nourishing Cuisine – Enjoy delicious, curated cuisine and indulgent snacks designed to nurture your body and mind.
Restorative Pampering – A retreat dedicated to replenishing your creative energy before the busy winter months & festive season begins.
A Supportive, Intimate Creative Community – Share this experience with like-minded creatives in a beautiful and inspiring setting.

Whether you're an experienced artist or simply seeking to reignite your creative vision, this weekend is an invitation to rest, restore, and rediscover the infinite well of inspiration within you.

Join us for a weekend of art, reflection, and renewal in one of Cornwall’s most enchanting locations.

Boconnoc is a detox for the soul. Tucked down two miles of private drive, as soon as you enter Boconnoc you are transported to another world; a world of tranquillity, peace, and breath-taking scenery. Ancient trees inhabit the vast corners of the estate, whilst the gardens burst with extraordinary blooms. Boconnoc House sits in the heart of the estate. This Georgian country house, restored over 12 years by the Fortescue family, is surrounded by rolling countryside and lawns. The only sounds you will hear are the birds and the trees swaying gently in the breeze.