Articles

Traveling somewhere new to make art, is intrinsically inspiring. Away from everyday routines, there is the space to focus on a new project or skill. I will be running a Winter Break Linocut Workshop in Pemberton on the 24th 25th and 26th of July 2021. I really enjoyed running Linocut workshops in Bali, now I have replaced the tropical gardens of Ubud for the picturesque forests of Pemberton.

I chose the Hidden River Estate in Pemberton for this workshop because it has –

Beautiful natural surroundings, with a gorgeous view – just being in the space is rejuvenating. People connect to their own creativity easily in this kind of space.

It has gourmet local food – so we can take a break from class and have the luxury of an exquisite lunch. This makes for a richer cultural experience, food, art and wine, ticks all the boxes.

Space for your own creativity, I design the workshops with a flexible structure so people can work at their own pace, with small enough classes for individual attention whenever needed – whether you are an absolute beginner or an experienced artist.

I have always loved the southern forests, there is a relaxation that occurs just from being in this environment. The Hidden River Estate is a restaurant and boutique winery. Sue and Ardal Nigg who own and run the venue are lovely people and have become good friends. The restaurant overlooks Pemberton’s beautiful undulating hills of karri forest and farmland. It is a short walk through the forest to the beautiful scenery of Big Brook Dam. I first met Sue when she came to my linocut workshop in Ubud in 2016. (She’s a creative soul, as you can tell from the design of the restaurant and the beautiful art nouveau labels on the Hidden River wine.) At that time she asked me – Why don’t you come and do a workshop with us in Pemberton? I loved the idea.

Sue’s husband Ardal is a passionate international chef. After settling at Hidden River with Sue and their family, he discovered and met local farmers growing an amazing array of foods.  The menu is seasonal and down to earth; developed from exceptional local produce with tastes from around the world. During this workshop, we are very fortunate to have Ardal and his team cooking our lunches each day from local produce. – the food is divine.

I keep returning to Pemberton for the unique food, scenery and wine and to visit my sister who has lived there with her family for about fifteen years. When I visit I love going on forest walks, climbing the Gloucester tree and sampling the local wines. All this less than 4 hours drive from Perth. I am so happy to be offering a second workshop at Hidden River Estate, three days of creativity – a rejuvenating experience. Book Now for the July Winter Break, 24th 25th and 26th of July, you’ll be so glad you did!

My sisters accommodation business is nearby Pemberton Lake View Chalets with four rammed earth cottages overlooking a lake and is a lovely place to stay.