Next retreat coming Autumn 2025
Farnham, Surrey
Hosted by Helen Ridley and Jodie Rose
Join Helen Ridley Illustration and Jodie Rose Calligraphy for a day filled with the soothing flow of ink on paper and the vibrant hues of watercolours.
We will guide you through the intricacies of calligraphy and watercolour painting, helping you discover the beauty of penmanship and the meditative rhythm of each brush stroke.
“[I had a] brilliant time at the art retreat by Jodie and Helen. The communication before the retreat was excellent, I knew exactly what to expect.
The retreat was superb. So well thought out, led and hosted. The two workshops - watercolour florals and dip pen calligraphy were really well thought out to work together and we ended up with finished pieces. Both Jodie and Helen are excellent teachers.
Lunch was delicious and we were well fuelled with tea, coffee and drinks throughout the day. We also each got a box with all the supplies needed, beautifully laid out and presented.
The venue was lovely too and so nicely decorated. Would highly recommend. Thanks so much for a very lovely day!”
Roche
“Helen and Jodie thought of every last detail. From the immaculately put together personalised box with everything we needed for the day, to the delicious lunch and yummy cookies for afternoon pick me up. It was such a special way to take time for myself and lose myself in creativity. Gorgeous venue too. 5 stars, smashed it, thank you ladies!”
We will start the day with a 30 minute relaxation experience, hosted by Sharon Swyer.
You will then split into 2 groups with one group starting on the 2 hour watercolour workshop and the other with a 2 hour calligraphy workshop.
After lunch, the groups will switch over to the other workshop.
On arrival, you will receive a non-alcoholic welcome drink of your choice.
At lunch time, there will be a gorgeous spread of healthy food for you to enjoy.
Throughout the retreat, there will be hot and cold drinks available.
Everything is included in the price - food, drinks and art kits to use throughout the day and to take home with you (pen holder, nib, ink, worksheets, watercolour paints, paint brush and palette).
Helen Ridley Illustration will lead you through how to paint floral arrangements, using different brush stroke techniques.
Jodie Rose will lead you through the basics of the pen pressures and strokes before moving onto letterforms, forming words and adding in simple flourishes.
To begin this wonderful day retreat, you will be immersed in the world of relaxation, with a short breathwork session by Sharon.
The Garden Gallery, part of the Farnham Museum in the centre of Farnham. These secluded walled gardens are a beautiful and peaceful space.
Directions: head to the Farnham Museum on West St. and go to the left side of the building (as you look at it).
There is a white gate along there which opens up to the garden of the museum.
The Garden Gallery is at the end of that garden, which is where the retreat will be held.
It's a short walk from Farnham train station, and there's plenty of free parking around the area, including West St. but none on site of the museum itself.
The Garden Gallery, West Street, Farnham GU9 7DX, UK
