River of Art presents: Mystery Bay Artists Retreat
Event description
THE RETREAT
River of Art is delighted to offer a residential artist retreat in conjunction with Mystery Bay Cottages.
This immersive experience, designed for all skill levels, invites you to dive into your arts practice under expert professional tutorage in the untouched and tranquil environment this special location offers.
Through guided exercises you will explore technique to build and further develop your artistic voice, at the conclusion all participants will be invited to exhibit work at The River of Art Festival held over 11 days in September October 2025.
Join this extraordinary opportunity to make a deeper connection to your arts practice – at what ever level you’re at. Stay on-site in the comfort of Mystery Bay Cottages, or, for locals, join the retreat as a day participant and experience the inspiration of an art retreat right in your own backyard!
Join Tutors Simone Kirkwood and Dr Anne Babington in this inspiring 5 day 4 night retreat in the stunning surrounds of Mystery Bay
Intentions and Outcomes
- Foster artistic growth through guidance and peer engagement
- Inspire creativity influenced by the coastal setting
- Provide a platform for experimentation and collaborative projects
- Creation of new artworks
- Showcase artworks at a group exhibition at the River of Art Festival in September
THE PROGRAM
- Day 1: Wednesday Afternoon: Arrival, introductions, setting your path, welcome dinner
- Day 2: Thursday: Creative exploration
- Day 3: Friday: Deeper dive into practice
- Day 4: Saturday: New work, farewell dinner
- Day 5: Sunday: Next steps, midday departur
THE ACCOMODATION
Mystery Bay is a stunning coastal gem on the NSW South Coast, known for its rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and rich geological and cultural history. Located between Narooma and Tilba, it offers breathtaking ocean views, crystal-clear waters, and striking rock formations shaped by time and tide. Mystery Bay is a haven for nature lovers, with bush-walking opportunities, as well as a deep connection to local Aboriginal heritage and storytelling.
Mystery Bay Cottages have 6 cottages each with 2 bedrooms, and three cabins with 2 bedrooms. Each cottage and cabin has a full kitchen, bathroom and living space.
Cottage = Queen + 2 Twin Beds
Cabin = Queen + 2 Bed Bunk
More information: www.mysterybaycottages.com.au
ARTIST RETREAT & ACCOMMODATION
5 days, 4 nights:
$1800.00 Single Occupancy Cabin or Cottage - Time to focus on your art #JustForYou
$1500.00 Twin Share Occupancy 2 Bedrooms - Inspire and create together #FriendsWhoCreate!
Artist Retreat only
$680.00 - excludes accommodation - experience an art retreat right in your own backyard! #ArtInYourCommunity
Partner Supplement
$120 - excluding tuition only - An art retreat for you, an adventure for them #EscapeTogether
Additional day rates on request through Mystery Bay Cottages - Stay on a while longer #TooBeautifulToLeave
Artist Retreat includes:
Tuition, Workshop Materials (a list will be provided on additional materials you might like to bring)
Welcome & farewell meal, refreshments during workshop times (excl Breakfast, lunches & other meals)
Mindfulness & Cultural Activities/Storytelling
For more information visit
https://www.riverofart.com.au
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