1 week painting holidays or just 'turn up for the day and paint'

I attended a 1 week painting course here in Sept 2009 when I needed a well earned break from work. I travelled on my own (leaving my husband at home) and was welcomed like an old friend by Alex (general organiser, lunch maker and a charming gentle giant), Ruth (unassuming artist who will encourage you all the way) and Cat (enthusiastic and generous tutor with her time and makes you feel like a 'professional' by the time you leave).

What you'll find here is a lovely spacious studio tucked in a little village in the Spanish hills, but only 20 mins drive to the beach. Professional brushes, acrylic paints, easels and canvases are all included in the holiday price, and you are encouraged to use as much as you want. The bigger the canvas - the better!

Mornings are generally spent sketching or painting on location somewhere different every day, then back to the studio for lunch and an afternoon of finishing off your painting. A few locals also use the studio on a daily basis so there is always someone new to chatter to and swop tips.

And don't worry about your age and whether you'll 'fit in' - I'm 36 and travel the world with business staying in Hiltons etc, and had only painted at evening classes for 18 months, yet had a great week chatting away with ladies 60+ who didn't work and had painted for years. Just come here with the attitude "lets just enjoy this and see what we end up with" and you'll have a great time.

My only 'watch out' would be to think carefully about your accomodation choice. Because the studio is in a little village you need to make sure that you end up in a hotel that fits your preferences. There are a number of options on the JoeDaisy website now, so if you like to stay in place where there are a few bars and restaurants - make sure you don;t pick one of the more isolated hotels, If you like it quiet and quaint - there are those options too. If in doubt which hotel to book, just give Alex at the studio a call for some advice.

Happy Painting and I might see you there sometime!