The Glenview ‘Autumnal’ Artistic Retreat
A Two-Day Tutored Workshop guided by Contemporary Irish Artist Melissa O'Donnell
A Creative Escape at The Glenview Hotel
18th & 19th November 2025 | €550 per person | 2 Day Rate €350 (no overnight included)
Step into a world of stillness and inspiration, where the gentle embrace of the Wicklow woodlands meets the warmth of artistic expression. Nestled in the serene surroundings of The Glenview Hotel, this two-day retreat is guided by acclaimed contemporary Irish artist and tutor Melissa O’Donnell, who will lead you on a journey of creativity, reflection, and connection.
Over the course of the retreat, you will be invited to slow down and explore your creativity through guided art-making sessions, live demonstrations, open discussions, and gentle peer sharing. A welcoming Fireside Studio sets the tone, with comforting tea and warm scones to accompany your moments of discovery.
As the retreat draws to a close, participants will come together for a friendly mini-exhibition, celebrating each other’s work before enjoying a convivial dinner hosted by Melissa and joined by a special guest speaker.
Whether you are taking your first steps into art or returning to a lifelong passion, this retreat offers a rare opportunity to create, to connect, and to be immersed in both nature and artistry.
Your Retreat Experience Includes:
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Two days of guided art workshops with a choice of Still Life or Landscape projects (watercolour)
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Live technique demonstrations & group discussions
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A warm, supportive, and creative atmosphere
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Two-night stay with breakfast each morning
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Lunch in The Conservatory each day
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Final evening mini-exhibition of works, followed by a drinks reception and dinner with Melissa O’Donnell and an invited guest speaker
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Fireside Studio breaks with complimentary tea & scones
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Open to all skill levels
You are also welcome to bring a partner who is not participating in the workshop for an additional €120 (sharing).
About the Tutor
Melissa O’Donnell is a contemporary Irish artist whose works are held in both private and public collections across Ireland and internationally. She is represented by Solomon Gallery, Dublin, and by Sotheby’s Contemporary Irish Art Auctions in London and Paris. A passionate tutor, Melissa teaches at the National Gallery of Ireland, Artform, and BigLook Ireland, where she shares her joy for both contemporary and traditional arts with students of every level.
Let the quiet beauty of nature, the warmth of community, and the flow of creativity guide you on this unforgettable artistic retreat.
www.melissaodonnellartist.com www.solomonfineart.ie
Customer Reviews
"What was the highlight of the Art Retreat for you?"
“Getting Inspiration for developing my future art. Overall, the Lounge was a brilliant room for creating art. Very atmospheric. An enjoyable four days”.
“Melissa’s teaching – Very knowledgeable and experienced teacher. Probably the most useful art tuition I have ever received. Very structured teaching style which is easy to follow. Full of wonderful ideas on how to develop a project or series of paintings. Thank you very much!”
“All of it…I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. The hotel was warm & cosy, TV worked; bath was very welcome. Melissa is an excellent & very knowledgeable tutor. I learned to appreciate my work & experiment. The walk was beautiful. I would return for another session from the U.K.”
“The instructor was excellent and so inspiring.”