An incredible experience awaits you!
This is a fantastic opportunity for artists of all levels to unwind, create, and explore their artistic potential.
We’re thrilled to invite you to an inspiring and transformative retreat. We start this incredible tour with a 4-day intensive workshop, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn the innovative Charcoal Sanding Technique from the incredibly talented and internationally acclaimed artist, Annie Murphy-Robinson! Annie’s groundbreaking work has earned her numerous prestigious awards, including the Draper Prize from the Portrait Society of America. This is a rare chance to learn from one of the most celebrated artists in contemporary realism, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of South Africa's natural beauty.
Retreat Highlights:
From September 7 to 17, 2025, you’ll embark on a memorable creative journey, starting with an intensive 4-day masterclass and followed by an inspiring tour of beautiful game reserves. During this time, Annie will share her expert techniques and guide you in drawing inspiration from the breathtaking surroundings. Each day, she will also lead a yoga class to help you relax, recharge, and connect with your creative energy.
What You’ll Learn:
You’ll immerse yourself in the fundamentals of the charcoal sanding technique during the 4-day workshop. You’ll create captivating drawings from still-life setups and photographs, all while learning to craft your own tools from simple, everyday materials. This innovative approach offers a unique way to refine your skills and unlock new levels of creativity!
After completing the intensive 4-day masterclass, you’ll transition into a serene and inspiring retreat, where you’ll not only experience the breathtaking beauty of South Africa’s wildlife but also engage in daily yoga sessions and creative art inspiration led by Annie. This portion of the retreat is designed to help you relax, connect with nature, and draw fresh inspiration from your surroundings, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in a more relaxed, creative environment.
What to Expect:
With over 25 years of teaching experience, Annie is passionate about helping artists grow—not just technically, but also in finding their personal voice. She is known for her ability to personalize instruction, ensuring each student achieves their fullest potential.
For those who may not be familiar with Annie, she is an internationally recognized artist and the winner of the coveted Draper Prize from the Portrait Society of America (2021).
She is also the most award-winning artist in the Art Renewal Center's annual international salon. This year, Annie is serving as a judge for the drawing section of this prestigious competition and is still actively involved in judging the finalists! Her expertise and innovative techniques in charcoal sanding have made her a sought-after instructor and mentor.
In addition to learning the sanding process, you’ll receive one-on-one guidance from Annie, who will help you unlock new dimensions in your art. Plus, you’ll you will receive personal mentorship for up to a year after the end of the workshop where you can share your work and receive personalized feedback from Annie for up to six months!
Workshop Details:
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When: Retreat from September 7 to 17. We will start with a formal 4 day workshop followed by a relaxed retreat
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Class Size:12 - 24 participants. We only have 12 rooms available.
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ALL MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
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ALL LEVELS ARE WELCOME, FROM BEGINNER TO ADVANCED.
Don’t miss out on this incredible retreat and workshop experience.
Join us to enhance your artistic skills, create beautiful charcoal drawings, and find inspiration in the stunning South African landscape!
THERE ARE ONLY 12 ROOMS AVAILABLE
Our Itinerary
Stellenbosch Arrive at Cape Town International Airport, where a complimentary shuttle will take you to your hotel in beautiful Stellenbosch. After settling in and refreshing yourself, we’ll gather at 7 PM in the lobby for our welcome dinner and orientation. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow participants and kick off an exciting journey ahead!
Today, you'll enjoy a relaxed breakfast at before the formal 4-day workshop begins, Start with a slideshow and lecture by Annie, introducing the charcoal sanding technique and her process. Participants will create specialized tools and begin preparing their paper with sanding. They’ll select photographic references for their still life and start transferring points.
Morning: 9 - 3pm You'll learn Annie’s signature charcoal technique, diving deep into her unique methods. Afternoon: After the session, we will visit Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden for an artistic and serene experience amidst sculptures, which will complement the creativity
Morning 9 AM - 3PM The day will focus on the "first pass" of value application and refining techniques with the sanding paper. Participants will learn the intricacies of adding depth and working in layers with one-on-one guidance from Annie. Afternoon: Visit the Rupert Museum in Stellenbosch, which houses some of the finest South African artworks, offering participants a chance to explore and be inspired by the cultural heritage of the region. Evening: Dinner at De Volkskombuis
Morning: 9AM-3PM "Participants will spend the day smoothing transitions and building value. Annie will demonstrate advanced sanding techniques as well as disguising rough areas in the paper. Afternoon: After the session, we go to Waterford Wine Estate for a chocolate and wine pairing experience. This luxurious stop allows for indulgence in South Africa's fine wines and will be a memorable treat. Evening: a gourmet dinner
After a short flight, we’ll arrive at our first destination, the beautiful Botlierskop. Upon arrival, you'll have time to settle into your luxurious rooms and soak in the lodge’s stunning surroundings. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on your first safari adventure, getting up close with Africa’s incredible wildlife. After the safari, Annie will lead an engaging art lecture, setting the tone for the creative journey ahead. We’ll then gather for a delightful dinner.
We’ll begin the day with an optional sunrise yoga session to refresh and energize for the day ahead. After breakfast, we’ll dive into art instruction, followed by a special elephant interaction, where you'll experience these magnificent creatures up close. To wrap up the adventure, we’ll head out on one final safari, taking in the beauty of the landscape one last time—an inspiring way to close out this incredible journey.
BOTLIERSKOP: We will take a scenic drive to Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Upon arrival, you'll have time to settle into your luxurious rooms and soak in the lodge’s stunning surroundings. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on your first safari adventure, getting up close with Africa’s incredible wildlife. After the safari. We’ll then gather for a delightful dinner.
Prepare for an exhilarating early morning safari. After your adventure, enjoy a hearty breakfast to refuel for the day ahead. We’ll then come together for a rejuvenating yoga session to stretch and relax. Following yoga, you’ll have free time to explore the lodge or unwind at the spa until 4 PM, when we’ll reconvene for an insightful discussion led by Annie. She’ll share her techniques and insights on how she approaches her art, offering valuable inspiration and time to create work.
Begin your final day with a thrilling sunrise safari, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the African wilderness. After this adventure, we’ll come together for a refreshing yoga session to help you unwind and reflect on your experiences over breakfast.
You will be transferred to George Airport for your short 1 hour flight to Cape Town. we will arrive at Cape Town International Airport International at 10 AM in time for all International Departures
Buffelsdrift
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Our Rates
You've always wanted to go on a trip that's out of this world.
You're ready to make your dreams come true, and we're here to help. We have curated an incredible journeys and special offer to bring your dream trip from just a dream into reality.
We also offer amazing payment plans. Please send us an email to ask more about this.
We need a holding deposit to secure your place.
Inclusions & Exclusions
RATES INCLUDE
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Luxury accommodation; Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 6 Dinners.
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Airport Transfers
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Flight to George
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Reserve Airport Transfers
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5 Game Drives
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Flight to Cape Town
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Ground Transportation as mentioned in the Cape Wineland
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All activities mentioned in the itinerary
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Tuition fees
All activities include fees and shared transfers to and from the activity; 15% VAT; 2% Government Levy; Wi-Fi
RATES EXCLUDE
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Premium beverages;
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cigars and cigarettes;
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all flights and transfers not specified;
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Visas; gratuities;
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Travel insurance
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laundry
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Spa Treatments
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Gratuities
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Art Materials