Supplier: M15464

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Supplier: M15464

InfoHub supplier since Dec 2006!
Base of operations: Australia -- Number of InfoHub client requests accepted: 54

M15464 is unique in that it provides a personalized holiday for the making of art. Set in a forest on the east coast of Australia this tranquil place is perfect to learn about ceramic sculpture, painting and drawing while living as a valued guest within a private home-stay.

It is close to some of the most beautiful (almost deserted) beaches in the world, in a valley that could be inhabited by hobbits, with forests, mountains, rivers and farmlands. The homestead is a spacious hand made house built with recycled natural materials with a tropical garden setting that is populated by eighty species of native Australian birds. Forest walks and exploration of the creek in its own tropical idyll is a feature of this place.

The tutor Sally Hook has thirty years experience in making ceramic sculpture both in Australia and internationally, who can take you into areas of creativity that you have always wished you could try. Her skills include figurative sculpture, wheel work, mold design, surface finishes and glazing techniques.
Your aims for your artistic workshop are assessed first then a plan of action is undertaken to take you where you want to go with your art.
She encourages drawing and marquette-making for the development of ideas before larger works are undertaken, with guidance and assistance as the work progresses. It is intended that the finished art work will be fired and sent to the guests after the workshop concludes.

Guests stay from three day or five day workshops, tailored to suit individuals from beginners to experienced clay artists and painters. Longer periods of up to ten days are possible.

Guests can expect a very personalized experience, getting to know the artist and her partner Peter (Dirk) who provides fresh vegetables from his organic garden. Meals are made to suit the tastes and preferences of the guests and cover a wide range of culinary styles.

This is a different holiday experience in that you are invited to become part of a functioning artist's home and studio and being given time and assistance to discover your own artistic potential.

Questions and Answers

Creative vacation specializing in ceramic sculpture, pottery and two dimensional art in lush Australian forest retreat.

1. How long has the business been operating and how did it start?

This business has been operating for six years.

2. What is your company's mission?

The company's mission is to provide a unique holiday experience to our guests of exploring their creativity and making art while living and working alongside a practicing artist.

3. What does your company specialize in?

Art - specifically ceramic sculpture and painting.

4. Who is the founder or owner of the company and briefly describe his/her past activities?

Sally Hook - ceramic artist and partner Peter Quirk, owners and managers of Fired Art Gallery and Retreat. Past activities are in establishing this home stay retreat, buildings, gardens and gallery for the past 30 years.

5. What is your most popular travel package and why?

Three or five day workshops. They allow maximum experience for learning skills in ceramics in short stays. They are particularly useful for people who have busy lives, and who want a short break with a difference.

6. What is the best compliment you received from a client?

"If you're after a relaxing break with a creative flavour, you should look no further than Sally Hook's artists' retreat. During my stay I was able to unwind from a stressful city job, in the beautiful and peaceful surrounds of the Nambucca Valley. With Sally's expert assistance I created a work that I'm truly proud of. Sally and Dirka are a wonderful couple who put me at ease immediately and we shared some great conversations and music during my stay. The meals and accommodation are five star with a personal touch. I'll certainly be visiting again as soon as I can. Can't say thanks enough for a unique and special experience" - Michelle Brown

Vacation Packages offered by supplier M15464
Picture	Name	Highlight	Activity	Price	Destination

	School of Art Retreat - Contact Supplier	A vacation for artistic creativity with a private tutor while living in a sub-tropical rain forest on Australia's beautiful east coast. Read more >>>	Vacation School Ceramics/pottery Drawing Painting	AUD 850	Australia

Reviews and Comments

	Rating	By	Subject	Added

1		Tim Klein	Fired Art Retreat	2007-09-13
		"Working with Sally was great. Although I had experience with other mediums I had never played with clay before and I loved it. As a first timer Sally ... view more provided me with the space, flexibility and guidance to experiment with a wide range of techniques and forms. Sally was generous in sharing her vast experience with me. I learnt heaps. I left the workshop with pieces I was pleased with, but more importantly I left with knowledge, motivation and inspiration to create more. Sally was a pleasure to spend time with. Sally and Dirk were very hospitable and made me feel very welcome in their home".

2		Liz Trujillo	Fired Art Retreat	2007-09-13
		Had a fabulous time at Fired Art Retreat. It was like staying with friends, except that Sally tried to make me work hard. Although I have been making sculptures ... view more with clay for many years, I learnt a new technique which has proved to be very valuable in making large sculptures. My room was so comfortable and afforded real privacy with its own little verandah looking out to the rolling hills and trees, the food delicious, the hosts most accommodating and the property was like being tucked away from the world with everything that your heart desires and yet within driving distance of shops, movies and beach. Even Woofy, the dog, was a darling. Loved it and will certainly do it again when time permits.

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