Perched just a couple of hundred yards from The Gobbins Cliffs, Audrey Kyle offers a unique art workshop, helping people learn the skills of painting as well as connecting with nature.
Folklore and the landscape of the Islandmagee peninsula, shaped by the sea, offers a stunning backdrop to learn art away from the daily hustle and bustle of modern life.
Audrey Kyle Art operates on a simple premise – learning a new skill in a tranquil setting.
It is a concept Audrey developed after re-discovering her affinity for painting.
“I had been working in the corporate world in HR, but eight years ago I took a change in direction and haven’t looked back,” she explained. “I began painting, started to get commissions and my new career started from there”
Audrey opened the Gobbins Studios to showcase her own work, but has since opened the studios for classes.
This Saturday August 1 from 12pm – 4pm, Audrey will be hosting an open studio where she will be displaying some brand new pieces that incorporate organic materials.
“What is offered is quite different to what other art classes offer,” she said. “As well as learning the skills of watercolours it is very much aimed at creating a relaxing, mindful experience.”
It also helps that the studio is part of a working farm with a livery stable and a flock of 50 Suffolk ewes.
“Where we are situated means we have a stunning landscape and an active farm,” Audrey said.
“There are so many aspects that can be drawn upon. And, as it changes through the seasons it offers many different inspirations.
“For example, in the summertime we do watercolour workshops and experience days where the people that visit can go for a walk through the meadow and through the woodland, we collect wild grasses and wildflowers and then they come back to the studio and paint them.”
Most classes last for three hours and can accommodate up to six people. However, there are also special summer sessions.
“In summer I host experience days, which last for five hours including lunch, and woodland and cliff top walk along with the watercolour practice.
“This enables the folklore to be incorporated to build experiences of the folklore of Ireland and really embrace the spirit of this remarkable area.”
Art Fans are welcome to join Audrey Saturday August 1 at The Gobbins Studio from 12 pm- 4 pm to view some of the artist’s latest work.
You can find out more and book classes at audreykyleart.com or contact Audrey directly on 07712464966
