The retreat offers guided workshops in mark making, charcoal, ink, and mixed media, encouraging participants to experiment with new techniques and create their own expressive tools to take home. The day is carefully woven with sensory inspiration — from art to taste to sound — providing an opportunity to explore, play, and reconnect with oneself.

Food is at the heart of the experience: morning tea with freshly baked biscuits, a seasonal home-cooked lunch, and indulgent afternoon cakes, all served in the tranquil surroundings of Boconnoc House Estate.

“This retreat is about giving people a precious day to pause, create, and reconnect before the festive season begins,” says Elaine Foster-Gandey

The experience is woven with nourishment at every stage. Morning tea greets you with warm biscuits, while lunchtime brings a feast of seasonal dishes, lovingly prepared: perhaps a vibrant beetroot borscht with fresh French bread, a golden spanakopita, delicate pissaladière, or a light quiche of leek with ham or salmon. Alongside these, colourful salads celebrate garden greens and fresh produce.

Sweetness follows: flapjacks and chocolate brownies with fresh coffee, and to close the day, afternoon tea with a classic coffee-and-walnut cake, shared in Boconnoc’s tranquil stables.

This retreat is a rare chance to pause, explore, and indulge in both art and flavour before the rush of winter festivities begins.

Tickets are £150, which includes all tuition, materials, and food. Spaces are limited to ensure an intimate and personal experience.

For more information and booking, visit elainefostergandey.com Email e.fostergandey@gmail.com Contact telephone 07813 986999