I visited Maison du Fort in July 2024 for a week’s art retreat. I knew Leesa quite well beforehand as we’d lived in the same village in Sussex, UK and I’d attended some of her workshops and exhibitions. But apart from that I didn’t really know what to expect. I’d never been on an art retreat before and was unfamiliar with that part of France. I’d also worked almost exclusively in watercolour and hadn’t really tried working in other media, but I was keen to try anything and ‘give it a go’.
At the risk of ‘giving away the ending’ I’d say the week at Maison du Fort was one of the most memorable weeks of my life. I made some genuine friendships, laughed a lot – and most importantly gained some new skills and important insights which have transformed how I approach my art.
That’s the broad ‘wash’ – now to fill in some of the details…
The pre-retreat organisation was excellent – so you were clear on travel logistics and what would be included. Importantly, we were also connected with our fellow guests on Whatsapp beforehand so you felt you knew them already when you got there.
Leesa’s partner Alistair picked us up from the local railway station, and we made our way to the manoir in Montignac de Lauzun. The website can’t really do justice to the sheer beauty of the house and the surrounding grounds. Each of the rooms is unique and has a period feel without being stuffy.
Our classes were based in the spacious art studio, but I really appreciated how Leesa took every opportunity to take us out and give us the opportunity to paint en plein air in local villages, gardens or at amazing viewpoints. We covered acrylics, watercolour and linotype printing, as well as touching on colour mixing, drawing skills and sketching people.
We also had numerous opportunities to visit local villages on market days and during evenings, as well as walking down to the local pub with its unique atmosphere and frequent live music nights.
Leesa and Alistair’s hospitality was outstanding, with superb food – and plenty of wine. The group really came together during the evenings when we talked on the terrace.
As I say, this was one of the most enjoyable weeks of my life. I didn’t want to leave – and I can’t wait to return.
