BY DECLAN VARLEY
Back by popular demand, the national treasure that is Don Conroy is returning to The Lodge at Ashford Castle where hotel guests will enjoy sketch and watercolours masterclasses with the man himself.
Weather permitting, guests will join Don on a walk of The Estate grounds where the artist and environmentalist will point out local flora and fauna and lead a quick pencil and pen sketching session on the shore of Lough Corrib.
Back at the hotel, following a coffee break, guests will join Don for more drawing and sketching, with the artist teaching classics from his The Den era such as how to draw an owl as well as other still life and landscape illustrations.=
In the afternoon, Don will also lead a watercolours masterclass and show guests how he creates a watercolour painting from start to finish while imparting tips on creating different effects with different brushes.
Whether you are a total novice who wants to enjoy the nostalgia that comes from ‘Drawing with Don’ or a seasoned artist, this masterclass, titled ‘Looking at the Landscape through Creative Eyes’, is open to all levels of ability. This workshop package has evolved from previous years to allow guests old and new to learn new skills and techniques over the course of the day.
Taking place from March 10-12, this hotel package, priced at €495.00 per person sharing, includes dinner on both evenings, breakfast each morning, welcome drinks on arrival as well as a full day’s masterclass with Don. All guests will be provided with the requisite materials needed to create their masterpieces, a memento that guests can treasure long after their stay.
For guests who wish to build on their getaway, there is a myriad of activities to enjoy on the estate including archery, clay shooting, horse riding, an Island cruise on Lough Corrib, cycling and Ireland’s first school of falconry.
Offer: Based on two adults sharing. Availability is limited
For bookings please contact: [email protected] or call +353 94 954 5400 and for more information visit www.thelodgeac.com
