River of Art regrets to inform that the Mystery Bay Art Retreat planned for May 2025 has been cancelled due to a change in scheduling and program planning.

We are all disappointed but we want to assure you that this decision was made with careful consideration to ensure the best possible experience for future participants. We will return with the program in 2026.
A heartfelt thank you to our partners at Mystery Bay Cottages and to tutors Simone Kirkwood and Anne Babington for their valued support and contributions.

All ticket holders have been refunded in full. Any queries please contact us: contact@riverofart.com.au

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