When the unexpected happens, adjustments need to be made. Therefore my course at Art in the Algarve this week will be a Virtual course.
This is for those who were signed up and couldn’t make it….those who have been before and want a refresher and for anyone else who is interested in the creative process.
By following my blog you will be able to ask questions and make comments plus you will be able to return here at your leisure. No deadlines or worries…..
We will need to use our collective imagination to conjure up the incredible atmosphere of the School and the old town of Olhao, which of course we will do, and don’t forget the delicious coffee, ice cream and the Portuguese custard tarts and so much more:)
Olhao stairs – watercolour
Today is arrivals day for my spring course at the School in Olhao Portugal.
I know I am back with the wonderful Art in the Algarve family when Nuno taxi driver picks me up at Faro airport. During the twenty minute drive from airport to School, I sit back and enjoy hearing about all political developments in Portugal and the rest of the world from the wonderfully exuberant Nuno. Just thinking about him puts a smile on my face.
The side entrance to the School on left.
Arrivals day is also departure day for the previous group and so can be a little hectic, all part of the School’s charm and magic.
People come from all over the world at staggered times depending on flights, which means that Nuno is back and forth to the airport like a yoyo.
On this course people will be arriving from Hawaii, Norway, France, UK and goodness knows where else.
We are met by Margarida, the beating heart of the School. Schedules and keys to rooms are given and suit cases dispatched….and then it’s time to get an overview of the School and possibly take a siesta before the evening festivities when we all get to meet one another.
We first enter into the main reception/dining room (this image shows another group enjoying their evening meal) a place which can be for quiet meditation during the day or filled with conversation and laughter over lunch or dinner.
From here we walk through to one of the central courtyards or can take stairs to the upper levels.beautiful shadow play in main central courtyard.
One of. the many areas to meet and paint throughout the School.
Here we find the beautiful 150 year old olive tree that meanders up through the three levels of the School. Note the beautiful shadow play…..
The entrance to the well equipped studio is off the courtyard….There are several flight of steps leading to upper levels…In this image we look back down into the Pool House courtyard…I love all the abstract shapes
Looking up from the courtyard pool at the azure skies….
On the top level wonderful views of the tiled roofs and Algarve Chimneys plus another small pool…
Looking down into the alleyway behind the School….
One of several terraces on an upper level
Almost at the top of the olive tree…..looking down into the courtyard from the third level
What I can’t capture in these photographs is the atmosphere…there really is a certain kind of magic about the place.
This School is the perfect place for a group to explore the creative process. So many areas where someone can go off on their own, or plenty of room for group demonstrations and meetings. Situated in the heart of the old town of Olhao we are able to walk everywhere.
On this first evening, we will raise a glass or two to toast what will be a week of creative expression and enjoy our first meal together. It’s a time when new friendships are made and any fears are hopefully quickly removed.
Storks are synonymous with Olhao. Tomorrow we will see them.
After a good nights sleep, we will meet for breakfast in the dining room around 8.30 ish. Breakfast is prepared by Joanna who also oversees the housekeeping. She is a quiet and beautiful presence in the School. .
At breakfast we will discuss the plan for the day. Be prepared for loosening up and lots of colour:)
See you in the morning.
Janet
Just had my first swim in the pool on the roof. Bracing as usual. Looking forward to starting painting
So pleased that you got a dip in right away. It must have woken you up after the plane and then NUNO:) See you for wine and then dinner at 6.30ish XX
You did capture some of the atmosphere, I could feel it seeping into my shredded nerves, the smell of the place intoxicating. What a perfectly wonderful place to learn to paint!
Thank you very much and yes the smell of the place is intoxicating…guaranteed to remove us from the madness we are living through:)X
This is really great. I am delighted😚
Thank you so much.. I hope you enjoy the journey:). Janet
I even like it a lot. my dear Janet😙
I am smiling:)
It’s great to see your smile😊👍
Captivating pictures and such a lovely place. Thank you for your virtual tour.
Thank you for dropping by:)
Welcome Janet.
Reblogged this on Hutts Ultra Blogging World.
Thank you Peter…always appreciated. Janet :)X
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Just lovely…an oasis in this grey world. (K)
An Oasis is a very good way to describe it…stay well and creative. Janet :)X
Thanks- I feel like I am there. Well done
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That’s very pleasing to hear:). Janet
It looks heavenly. I think I’ve seen this place advertised in Artists and Illustrators magazine – I recognise that distinctive courtyard.
I am sure you have seen. it advertised there. It’s a wonderful place to be creative…:)
Ah, yes the courtyard looks beautiful!
A wonderful place to paint:).
Thanks for the lovely tourn Janet. I love your painting of the steps, and such a beautiful setting for a workshop or visit. It looks charming, along with Margarida. 🙂
You are most welcome Brad. I hope the next few days brings you and others some light relief:)X
Is something fun happening the next few days I don’t know about? 🙂
I am mimicking what would have been my week’s course at the School and so every day until next Wednesday 22nd when we fly on virtual planes home, there will be demos etc. Again, this is something you can read now, and six months down the road go back to you and follow the exercise. Stay safe:)X
Thanks Janet. I understand and may revisit the details at a later time. The photos are a pleasant tour in the now.
Thank you Brad:)
I’ve been so envious on previous occasions. Thanks for sharing this, Janet. It’s wonderful!
Olga, I am so delighted that you will be joining us for the week…..Janet :)X
Sorry, plane was delayed, so I’m a little late, but have my painting stuff ready and looking forward to tomorrow. Now where do I find that glass of wine? 🙂
Hi Warren..so pleased you arrived safely. I will be waiting with wine either in the dining room or courtyard. 🙂
This is wonderful and I get to join in this time! This place is indeed paradise.xxx
I am so pleased that you will be joining the group:)XXX
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How marvelous! I’m so homesick for Olhão.
Hi George….we miss you…Hopefully see you back in Olhao soon. Janet 🙂
All are perfect inspirations! Captures of pure love! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you:)XX