Art Retreat - Patterns of the Land
Join us in the beautiful setting of the Andalusian hills in southern Spain, where we will be exploring the meaning of Islamic art, and learning to draw geometric and biomorphic patterns inspired by the natural world around us.
Our focus will be to dive into how and why art, and specifically Islamic Art, can be relevant to our current context and the world we are finding ourselves in. We will be looking at our relationship with the land, both in the global and local sense to find our next steps forward in today’s somewhat disorientating world.
Workshops will consist of observational drawing, pattern construction and painting, as well as walking, reading, discussion and reflection. Participants will take home with them a completed painting, and experience time to contemplate, learn, create and connect. Each artistic element of your work will be nurtured by deep reflections, writing practices and conversations.
The workshops will be led by Shaheen Kasmani and Henrietta Szovati at the House of Andalus. No previous experience necessary. Beginners welcome.
The retreat includes shared farmhouse accommodation, three meals per day prepared by a professional chef, use of a private swimming pool, and all workshops and art materials. Payment plans are available.
It does not include flights or transfers. There is an additional small fee if you would like your own room.
for pricing information, any questions, and to book, contact us via the Expression of Interest form
FAQs
Who is this retreat for?
You don't have to be an experienced artist. This is for people who are interested in Islamic art and what it might mean, but want to learn about its role in our present day, as well as how the art connects us to the land.
Can art be solidarity? Can it be resistance? What is its purpose during genocides in Palestine, Sudan & Congo? What role does traditional and sacred art play, and what might this mean? We’ll be getting into all of this and more!
We are keeping this retreat as women only so everyone feels comfortable in using the swimming pool during some down time. Islam will be centred, but you don’t have to be Muslim to attend, everyone is welcome.
What will workshops consist of?
Workshops will entail introductions and some discussions, and also some walks around the surrounding countryside. There will be drawing and painting, and also step by step sessions on how to draw geometric patterns and making biomorphic motifs, and time to reflect.
Some texts may be sent to you to read before the retreat, and may be referenced in the sessions.
There is no printer on site, feel free to bring a device on which you can access the texts.
How do I book?
Click through to the Expression of Interest form and fill it in, and we will be in touch with you to arrange payment
How much is the retreat and are payment plans available?
The cost is £985. This includes accommodation, all meals, workshops, art materials and use of the pool. It does NOT include flights or transfers.
Yes payment plans are available - please say yes on the Expression of Interest form and we will be in touch.
What is accommodation like?
House of Andalus is a beautiful recently renovated farmhouse in the Andalusian hills. Surrounded by nature which will be luscious in the springtime, the house is cosy and comfortable, and the perfect venue for a short break away to get creative, and connect to the land.
Rooms are shared and single rooms are available for a small additional fee.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
We are able to meet most dietary requests (some at a price) as long as they are indicated on the application form. Any allergies or dislikes must be stated on the form. Given the nature and location of the retreat, it may not be possible to accommodate last minute changes.
What does the retreat include?
Accommodation
Three delicious meals a day prepared by a professional chef, using locally sourced ingredients
All workshops
All art materials
Use of the swimming pool
The retreat does not include:
Flights
Transfers
Any additional expenses
