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A Masterclass with One of Britain's Leading Figurative Artists
Paint in the light of Renoir with Julia Hawkins, celebrated for her luminous figurative works and evocative brushstrokes.
From €3,420 per person | PLACES ARE STRICTLY LIMITED
Join one of Britain's most inspiring teachers for an exclusive six-night fully-inclusive retreat at Chateau Charente.
Guided by her expressive approach to light and form, you’ll explore new dimensions in your painting through five immersive workshops, while indulging in seasonal cuisine, curated excursions and wellness activities, and the refined elegance of French chateau life.
Within a small group environment, this is a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of Britain’s most renowned artists in an intimate setting.
Spring 2026 | 25–31 May
Study with a Recognised Master of Figurative Art
Julia Hawkins is a member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters (ROI) and the New English Art Club (NEAC), two of Britain’s most respected art societies.
This means you’ll be learning from a painter whose work is recognised at the highest professional level in Britain, and who stands within a tradition that has shaped modern figurative art.
AT A GLANCE
Six nights in a restored French chateau - elegant rooms, sweeping grounds, and timeless charm.
Daily morning or afternoon workshops with our artist in residence - small-group sessions and personal one-on-one guidance, within a small group.
Professional art materials included - plus a curated take-home kit to continue your practice beyond the retreat.
Seasonal dining with wine pairings - garden-to-plate menus celebrating the flavours of southwest France.
Cultural excursions curated with care - from village markets to antique brocantes, all designed to spark inspiration.
Wellness woven in - optional morning yoga, nature walks, and quiet moments to restore balance.
Seamless experience from start to finish - transfers and full concierge service included.
JULIA HAWKINS' RETREAT workshop OUTLINE:
Join artist Julia Hawkins for a week of painting at Chateau Charente, shaped by light, landscape, and close observation of the natural world.
This retreat is rooted in working from life. Days unfold at an unhurried rhythm, largely outdoors in the Chateau’s gardens and parkland, with guidance that encourages responsiveness, painterly freedom, and a deeper sensitivity to atmosphere and colour.
A Weeklong Masterclass of Impressionist Techniques
What We Explore Throughout the Week
Develop a more nuanced response to changing light and colour, and explore expressive brushwork that brings immediacy and vitality to your work.
This retreat is particularly suited to painters who enjoy working outdoors, responding directly to their environment, and deepening their relationship with light and place. Guidance is offered throughout, with generous space for individual focus and creative freedom.
Light & Colour In the Landscape
Work en plein air within the Chateau grounds, focusing on space, depth, and atmosphere, and learning to remain fluid and responsive as conditions shift.
PAINTING FROM LIFE OUTDOORS
Paint seasonal flowers and garden subjects as living, evolving forms, balancing structure with spontaneity.
Gardens, Blooms, and Natural Motifs
At selected moments, explore the relationship between figure, form, and landscape within the natural setting.
Figure and Form in the Garden
A Retreat for Painters Drawn to Place and Light
Please note that the masterclass workshop plans may change due to weather and lighting conditions.
"I'm truly looking forward to leading this retreat at Chateau Charente - a place that seems made for painting.
This will be a week to deepen your skills, spark your creativity, and enjoy the simple joy of making art in a beautiful setting.
With this small group experience, I’ll be able to offer plenty of one-to-one guidance, tailored to where you are in your artistic journey.
I hope you can join me."
— Julia
A PERSONAL NOTE FROM JULIA HAWKINS
Morning Wellness
Begin the day with an optional Tai Chi session or gentle stretching in the gardens. Breathe in the crisp country air as the sun warms the chateau’s stone walls.
Gourmet Breakfast
Savour a beautifully prepared breakfast featuring eggs made to order, house-made granola, creamy chia pudding, seasonal fruit, artisan breads, and freshly-baked pastries, alongside cold-pressed juices and an elegant espresso and tea bar.
Intimate Workshop with our Resident Artist
Artful Picnic Lunch
Gather with fellow guests for a relaxed picnic-style lunch al fresco—or take a beautifully packed basket back to the studio to linger in the flow of your painting.
Evening Aperitifs
Gather as golden light falls across the gardens. Each evening features a signature cocktail inspired by the season, accompanied by elegant hors d’oeuvres.
Chef's Dinner with Wine Pairing
Seasonal menus celebrate the flavours of the region — each dish paired thoughtfully with local wines. A moment to savour and share.
A DAY ON RETREAT
Choose Your Afternoon
Immerse yourself in the rhythms of French life: meander through a local brocante or market, join our chef for a hands-on cooking workshop, relax in the chateau with a book, or continue painting at your own pace.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 5 immersive half day workshops with our resident artist
- One-on-one guidance and group critiques
- Professional studio materials and plein air setup
- Exclusive Chateau Charente art kit to take home
- 6 nights in refined accommodation
- Rooms are either twin-share, private rooms or deluxe private rooms.
- All rooms include luxury bedding and linens, toiletries and amenities.
- Seasonal breakfasts, picnic lunches, refreshments, snacks and 3-course dinners
- Evening aperitifs with a daily seasonal cocktail or mocktail
- Wine pairings with dinners
- Guided visits to brocantes, village markets and family owned vineyards
- Optional nature walks and wellness sessions
- Painting sessions in storybook local towns
- All transport for excursions included
- Flights to France
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses or gratuities
- Additional art supplies (optional)
HOW TO BOOK
STEP ONE - Register to ATTEND
Fill out a quick online form to register for Julia Hawkins’ exclusive retreat in Southwest France. Share your details, room preferences, and any special requests to personalise your experience at the stunning 19th-century chateau.
STEP TWO - Receive Confirmation
Our team will review your registration and confirm your acceptance. You’ll receive a welcome email with retreat details and next steps to prepare for your creative journey.
STEP THREE - Choose Payment Option & Secure Your Spot
Select your preferred payment plan and pay a deposit to confirm your place. With limited spots available, this ensures your spot for an unforgettable week of painting workshops, gourmet dining, and wellness in the heart of France.
Retreat places are limited and fill quickly.
Register early to secure your spot.
Spend a week in the French countryside one of Britain’s most inspiring teachers and celebrated figurative artists. Together, you’ll immerse yourself in painting, experiment with dynamic compositions, and refine your technique in a setting that feels made for creativity.
