2026: NIKI BELL

COURSE OVERVIEW

This year’s painting retreat invites you to immerse yourself in the enchanting gardens of Studio Prèniac and the breathtaking countryside that surrounds it. Our focus will be on capturing the vibrant beauty of both wild and cultivated flowers in the landscapes and bringing their character to life on the page.

During the week, we’ll venture beyond the studio for inspiration. Two visits to local markets will offer opportunities to sketch and soak up the atmosphere, while a longer excursion to Cahors will include a group lunch and plenty of painting time. Cahors’ charming secret garden trail promises unexpected bursts of colour and creativity, and by the river Lot - framed by its magnificent medieval bridge Point Valentré - you can choose to paint the serene water and nearby vineyards or enjoy some personal exploration.

On our final day, we’ll bring together the week’s inspiration and techniques into a finished piece that reflects your journey. Along the way, you’ll experiment with methods ranging from watercolour wash and ink to gouache resist, learning how to create rich textures and expressive details. You’ll also keep a personal record of your adventure in a pocket-sized A6 concertina sketchbook, enhanced with collage and layered memories of the week.

Echinacea Border - Watercolour and Ink

Old Wheel - Gouache Resist

Overlooking the Sunflowers - Watercolour Sketch

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE BOOKING FORM

(For pricing, please see below)

ARTIST STATEMENT

I have always loved drawing and remember as a child always having pencil near to hand.

I was blessed with the most wonderful art teachers who all instilled in me that being an artist didn’t mean you were restricted to one medium it meant that all aspects of art and design were to be explored and enjoyed and to these people I am indebted.

From this education I have always been interested in many aspects of art and design and painting came to me much later. I started in textiles gaining my degree from Birmingham. After University I went to work in Fashion and Fashion Graphic Design. Once I moved to the Chilterns, and started a family, I became hooked on the countryside around me. I found a passion for drawing British Wildlife and this developed into painting and printmaking. I wanted my paintings to be strong and have an element of wildness about them to capture the essence of the beautiful creatures. I found the best media to be Watercolour as this allows for fluidity whilst also being uncompromising.

Watercolour is a wonderful artistic medium that can create the most exquisite textures and ethereal qualities depending on the techniques used. I have been exploring and experimenting with these for over 10 years. Teaching allows me to share my love for this medium. I love watching a student discover joy and satisfaction in their work.

My style is fluid and experimental whilst holding a realistic interpretation of the subject matter. I love incorporating pastels into my work alongside stencilling and collage. When teaching I encourage the understanding of techniques, colour mixing and experimenting so that a freedom and confidence can be found in the work.

I run an art studio in Chesham, Buckinghamshire 3and teach Watercolour, Acrylics, Mixed Media, Drawing and After School Art Clubs.

For further information about my work please do head over to website or have a look at my Facebook and Instagram accounts.

www.nikibell.co.uk

Facebook nikibellart 

Instagram nikibellartstudio

PRICING

Prices per person for 2026 are as follows:

The cost of our creativity holidays is inclusive of the following:

• Course fees and basic materials
  (except for any course specific materials that the tutor requests you bring with you)
• Airport collection and drop-off
  (allotted airports and times only)
• Accommodation
  (price varies by type of accommodation selected - we assume single occupancy by default unless you specifically request to share with a friend/partner)
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  (one meal taken at a local restaurant - to be paid by guests at the time)
• Tea and coffee throughout your stay 
• Aperitif and wine/beer with evening meal
• Transport to and from any excursions
• Bed linen and towels
• Access to all amenities throughout your stay
• Local tourist taxes

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE BOOKING FORM