Vibrant Expressions in Paint

Colour speaks to the emotions and spirit. This painting retreat gives you the opportunity to explore the power of colour, and to find new expressive possibilities in your painting. Whether you work abstract or representational you are welcome. Technical demos, art historical mind-openers, and directed experiments prime students to create compelling works. There will be lots of relaxed, creative studio time - with knowledgeable stimulation and support - to follow your interests and develop finished pieces.

The creative rhythm of the program will include these aspects:

• understanding, through clear demonstrations and instruction, how to overcome technical obstacles such as colour mixing and harmony, composition, and layering colours.
• responding to the beauty and diversity of Five Oaks’ natural setting. 
• finding inspiration and surprise in the projects and creativity of artists and writers from around the world.
• deepening your sense of symbol and intuition.
• enjoying a balance between structured learning and flexible time to follow your artistic curiosity.
• sharing the journey of creativity in the supportive and expansive company of others.
• finding connections between creativity and spiritual practices that open us to be responsive and alive to the Spirit.

While this week is open to anyone interested in creative exploration, some experience with acrylic or oils would be helpful.
A materials list of what to bring can be downloaded here.

Leadership: Being an artist has become, for Phil Irish, a way of exploring the world, stimulating imagination, and of sparking deep exchange with others. Phil has been exhibiting as a professional artist for 15 years. Phil earned his BA in art and literature from the University of Guelph, and an MFA in Visual Art from York University. Phil has exhibited his artwork in public museums, commercial galleries, and artist run centres across Canada. Phil has taught painting, drawing, and creativity at numerous venues including the Art Gallery of Ontario, Avenue Road Arts School, and the Guelph School of Art. He is known both for his inspiring knowledge of artists’ work and techniques through the centuries, and his generous nurturing of students’ individual interests and vision.
Phil lives in Elora. His artwork can be viewed at www.philirish.com.

This program is being offered as a part of Five Oaks' Arts Week where three arts-based programs are being held at the same time. Our days will be framed by gathering in community with those from the other arts programs for a time reflection and sharing. On Thursday evening we will gather for a 'Summer Celebration' where the general public is invited to share in the creative work that has unfolded during the week.

Perhaps you have a friend or a family member who would enjoy creative time at Five Oaks as well. The other programs being offered during the week are:
Photography
Writing

These programs will be added to this website soon.