Another special event during the week at Olhao is visiting the island of Culatra. It’s a short walk from the school to the boat taxi dock, where last year we were met by these two men and their lovely dog. Culatra is a large sand bar, located south of Olaho, part of the Ria Formosa National Park.
Initially, it was quite cool, misty and overcast…however, by the time we reached Culatra…the sun was shining, and it was absolutely beautiful.
Both men were extremely knowledgeable,…and came from long lines of local fishing families. There is so much to learn about Portugal and this particular area,
The island community of Culatra is made up of fishermen and others. I could see that it would be an ideal place to paint and write – especially during the off season.
This was the scene that met us when we arrived.
There are no cars on Culatra, definitely my kind of place. With a year round population of approximately 800, there are a couple of shops, cafe/restaurants, a church and even a little football stadium.
There are narrow walkways between the houses. Culatra reminded me of some of the Bahamian Islands where I have spent time. Very relaxed and laid back.
Although only a one day visit, I could see that there was much to explore…and for those looking for beaches and solitude the Island has long stretches of unspoiled sands. Apparently even during the height of the tourist season, empty, pristine beaches can be found, and of course the wildlife is beautiful.
Another place where it’s best for the group to split up to find places where they can take photographs and make quick notes in their sketch books, followed by another excellent lunch of fresh fish in one of the Island cafes.
Some of the sketches made last year by participants. The idea is to accumulate as much information as possible to be used for reference at the school and after returning home.
After lunch, more sketching and exploring and then back to Olhao where we had another delicious evening meal at the school.
http://www.artinthealgarve.com
http://www.janetweightreed.co.uk
A bientôt
My Life as an Artist (2) 
I want to LIVE HERE IMMEDIATELY JANET !! ♡♡♡
Jille, you would absolutely love it…..maybe you can come over next year when I am working at the school again:) xxx
I wish you could be transported right now:):)xxx
Reblogged this on First Night Design and commented:
I hardly dare breathe but i might just get my computer back tomorrow. In the meantime, here is another reblog, this time from the artist Janet Weight Reed.
Thank you so much for reflagging and I do hope that your computer gets back to you safe and sound:)
I really liked these beautiful photos and illustrations. What a brilliant artist! Made me long for a holiday though…..
Thank you so much….I can’t recommend this place highly enough:) and the cost of living there is amazingly inexpensive.
So, so pretty :0) Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you so much:)
Thank you for your comment:)
That looks marvellous, and the colours are so bright and the light so clear.
The light is very beautiful….thank you:)
Thank you so much….I loved it and now look forward to returning:)
I’m loving your expedition as much as you are, I think!!! Splendid.
Thank you so much Kathryn:)
Don’t these colours just set your brain on fire. You have captured them so well in your gorgeous sketches.
Thank you, Tish:)
Reblogged this on rebloggobbler.
Thank you:)
You are so very welcome my friend!
Reblogged this on My Life as an Artist (2).
Gorgeous. What an inspiration, especially for somebody with such feeling for light…
Thank you, Olga….Hope you have a lovely weekend.
What a wonderful post, colours, and art, everything , truly inspiring Janet 🙂 ❤
Beautiful! Oh….how I love the white, white walls against a clear blue sky!!! And those fishing boats, I would love to take a trip with that adorable dog.xxx