10–13 October 2025 · 4 days / 3 nights

Still Life Painting Retreat

With Anna Hymas

Past retreat

Led by contemporary painter Anna Hymas, this artist-led retreat invites you to explore the vibrant world of still life painting, working from real-life arrangements and your imagination.

Our Creative Tutor - Anna Hymas Tells us more

Illustrated workshop building at Court House Farm

Illustrated stable range at Court House Farm

The retreat

Your time at the Manor

Day by day

Dates 10–13 October 2025 · 4 days / 3 nights
Skill level All levels welcome

Led by contemporary painter Anna Hymas, this artist-led retreat invites you to explore the vibrant world of still life painting, working from real-life arrangements and your imagination. Known for her expressive use of colour and playful compositions, Anna brings a relaxed, intuitive approach to painting—encouraging freedom, curiosity, and joy in the process.

Across Four creatively immersive days, you’ll be gently guided through the stages of making a still life—from drawing and composition to painting with oils or acrylics. Whether you’re new to painting or an experienced artist looking to refresh your practice, Anna creates an atmosphere that is both supportive and inspiring, where bold choices and experimentation are welcome.

Expect to leave not only with a finished piece but with a renewed connection to your creativity, and a playful approach to making that you can carry forward long after the retreat ends.

What's included

Day 1- Afternoon welcome session— includes afternoon tea
Day 2 & 3- Workshop days with Anna
Day 4 - Final morning Show & Tell (9am–11:30am), with time to photograph your work
Materials, expert tuition, refreshments, and chef-prepared lunches, Optional calming retreat activities (Evening meals, wine and accommodation not included)

What to bring & other costs

As a residential guest, expect delicious fresh food created by our wonderful chef Kirstie, as well as tea, coffee and more throughout the day, and the bar is open for you from 6pm.

Anna Hymas

Your tutor

Good company.

Expert guidance.

Anna Hymas is a London-based artist working in her home-studio. A Central Saint Martins graduate, she has exhibited widely, including at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and internationally in London, New York and Paris.

Her work is characterised by bold, expressive colour, layered imagery and a playful, liberated approach to mark-making. Anna describes her retreat intent:

“We will set up still life scenes and work both from life and also from imagination. I hope to create a relaxed and fun space where people can paint freely without inhibitions or overthinking.” “I’m an impulsive painter … I paint, scrape back then build up layers until it feels right.” Anna Hymas

This retreat is designed to allow participants to leave not just with paintings, but with new energy, and an urge to continue creating.

annahymas.com

In their own words