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home to best selling watercolour & charcoal courses 

Hello and welcome to my website. If you’re looking for help and advice on your painting or drawing skills then you’ve definitely come to the right place. This website is packed with information about classes, retreats, videos, blog posts and other free stuff. So whether you’re trying to loosen up your watercolours or you simply want to learn how to draw a family pet, you will find a course to help.

 

Over the last few years of teaching and with over 100,000 courses sold, I have had the opportunity to listen carefully to the techniques and skills that my students want to learn and have designed easy to follow, structured lessons to suit… both face to face and virtual. There is no magic involved in learning how to draw or paint. It is simply a process and with understanding, play and practice, I can take you on an incredible and fulfilling journey of discovery and creativity.

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Introducing Olive and Plum Retreats!

I’m proud to announce that all of my upcoming art holidays will be hosted by Olive and Plum Retreats, a new luxury art travel company dedicated to crafting exceptional, immersive experiences led by the best artist teachers. 

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I have three brand-new, exclusive art retreats now available to book through Olive and Plum Retreats, designed to inspire and captivate! Whether you’re dreaming of a wildlife watercolour experience in the heart of the Cotswolds, a chance to paint with me and the renowned Jane Davies in a charming Italian farmhouse (now sold out), or an exhilarating art safari in South Africa, I have the perfect retreat for you!

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South African Art Retreat- NEW 2026

Join me on a transformative journey, with Olive and Plum Retreats and Freedom to Roam Adventures at the breathtaking Kariega Game Reserve, where luxury and creativity converge in an all-inclusive experience. From the moment you're greeted at Port Elizabeth Airport, every detail is meticulously handled, ensuring a seamless and worry-free adventure for all guests. Whether you're traveling solo or with a partner, our dedicated team is committed to providing a safe, luxurious, and unforgettable retreat, allowing you to focus on your artistic journey with  in the most incredible of surroundings. 

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Cotswolds Art Retreat, UK

Immerse yourself in a week of beautiful wildlife, English culture, painting, delicious food, great company and ancient history.

I'm excited to announce my new art retreat, organised by Olive and Plum Retreats, taking place in September 2025.

 

Come and join me for a special week of painting wildlife in a grand Edwardian house, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Southwest Cotswolds. The Manor House and the adjoining stable block have been painstakingly restored to a very high standard where you will enjoy your own beautifully furnished ensuite room. Set amongst 18 acres of secluded private woodland, we'll relax and paint in authentic surroundings, with delicious meals provided throughout your stay, cooked by our in-house chef. 

I hope to see you there!

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Lundly Island Art Retreat 2026

Join me for an unforgettable art retreat on the breathtaking Lundy Island from June 27th to July 4th, 2026. This 7-night experience, organised by Olive and Plum Retreats, is designed for artists of all levels who want to immerse themselves in nature and creativity.

Lundy Island’s dramatic cliffs, wildlife-rich shores and serene landscapes offer endless inspiration. With just 10 participants, this intimate retreat allows us to explore techniques for painting puffins, seals, wild ponies, seascapes and more through a series of guided workshops.

We’ll stay in the charming Millcombe House, a peaceful haven with stunning ocean views. Beyond the art sessions, you can enjoy guided nature walks, talks by Lundy’s conservation experts and magical evenings under star-filled skies.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot soon. Let’s create something extraordinary together on Lundy Island. 

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Popular workshops & retreats

Explore my most workshops at my Art Studio in Arley, Worcestershire, UK & worldwide Art Retreats...

Popular online courses

If you live further afield and can't attend my face to face classes, explore my range of online courses available with Domestika & Etchr. 

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Sarah Stokes News

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