Enjoy the stunning scenery and magnificent views from the sea to Arran and the isles beyond. Experience the breathtaking sunsets, wonderful vistas and our own romantic ruin Portencross Castle, here in this beautiful part of of Ayrshire on the Clyde coast.

We offer friendly and instructive short painting holidays in Scotland for discerning leisure painters in the peaceful surroundings of a a lovely Scottish country house dating from the 18th century with emphasis on informality and relaxation.

Master classes in oil techniques, acrylics and pastels will be offered, with informal critiques to assist in further developing skills.

The resident tutors for 2008 will be Michael Durning and Ann Brooks. Michael (MA – Fine Arts, Grays School of Art, Aberdeen and BA – Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art) works full time as a resident artist at Wasps Courtyard Studios, Irvine. Since 1996, he has been teaching at the Harbour Arts Centre as well as tutoring at the Glasgow School of Art. Ann Brooks (NDD, DA – Manchester Regional College of Art) has an extensive background as a textile designer, potter and art teacher. Presently she is an art tutor in adult education.

"Artaquarians" have enjoyed painting holidays at Glentrool (Dumfries and Galloway); West Loch Tarbert (Argyll and Bute); Holy Loch (Dunoon); Portencross (Ayrshire) and Brodick on the Isle of Arran.