Artist’s Retreat - Lord Howe Island Workshop (October, 2023)

How I loved our Art Retreat on LHI! Having a retreat, rather than tutoring, gave us the freedom to explore, talk, meet-up at a cafe and make art whenever we chose. And the variety of art styles was amazing. 

I felt so well during the week with the fresh tasty top quality meals. It was like a health retreat and a creative getaway all in one. And so well organised, you seem to have it down to a fine art -  excuse the pun!

Kerry Andrews, a new guest and practising artist from Tasmania

Artist’s Retreat - Lord Howe Island Workshop (October, 2023)

I purchased the Lord Howe Island Retreat as a birthday present for my wife, who is the artist and came along as her companion. It proved a wonderful and memorable experience for us both. The island was pristine, and the birdlife, landscapes and foliage quite astonishing. The lodgings provided, were extremely comfortable and accommodating, and the meals, in the various restaurants was exceptional. My wife found the environment and atmosphere spurred her creativity, whilst the interaction with the other participants both socially and artistically was quite special. And, although I was the sole male amidst 16 female artists, I was made to feel most welcome in their company.  

We do compliment Kerri at ART Travel Adventures for her excellent attention to detail and organisation and we hope to do another "Art Adventure" soon, to another destination.

Ross Fiddes: composer, musician, artistic consultant/director

Art of Travel Adventures - King Island, Tasmania, Workshop with Debbie Mackinnon (2023)

Ailsa and I loved our King Island Adventure! Exquisite landscapes to paint in every direction, every passing weather condition, heaps of history and super-friendly locals.

Thank you for your highly-knowledgeable and amazing perfect organisation and for adding friendly local guides, who brought lifelong local knowledge to our painting mix. Debbie and Mike shared invaluable painting and drawing tips, their demos were thoughtful, inspiring and their duet painting demo, was great fun. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Ross & Ailsa are regular guests of Art Travel Adventures from Queanbeyan

Art of Travel Adventures - Arkaroola, SA Workshop with Ross Laurie (August 2022)

Thank you so much Kerri! This was one of the most memorable and special experiences of my life ….. at a place I have long wanted to visit. Thank you for making it possible for me.

I really enjoyed Ross as a mentor/tutor and highly valued his intellect and art knowledge … and wit! Everyone on the trip was so lovely and great fun company. I will surely be recommending you and ART Travel Adventures to my art friends. Hope to meet up with you again soon!

Kym Barrett is a contemporary abstract landscape painter from Queensland

Art of Travel Adventures - Seal Rocks Workshop with Kerri Ainsworth (September 2020)

Dear Kerri, It was an absolutely wonderful week at Seal Rocks, thanks to your careful planning and flexibility. Thank you very much for everything.  I’d certainly like to join you in November in Kangaroo Valley. 

Meg Corlette is a regular guest of ART Travel Adventures from Sydney.

Art of Travel Adventures - Royal National Park with Idris Murphy (August 2020)

Just a short note to say how much I really appreciated your hard work, organization and running of the workshop we just attended. It was such a delightful, gorgeous spot and we were so fortunate with the weather too. I felt really privileged to have Idris as tutor and our chef, NJ did such a great job with the food. One of the highlights for me was going in the buggy with William up to the waterfall. While we were there we saw two yellow tailed black cockatoos, which I saw for the very first time. I really loved it, and enjoyed meeting everyone, so thanks so much for everything.

Anabel Walters is a returning guest who also came on our first workshop in Tasmania.

ART Travel Adventures - Mexico (2019)

I am just back from our wonderful adventure in Mexico and I wanted to drop you a line to thank you for an extraordinary couple of weeks. Every day exceeded my expectations on multiple levels. I was in awe at the way you efficiently, quietly, respectfully and thoughtfully managed everyone’s individual needs. Your organisation and negotiating skills belong in the UN!

Our Guanajuato host, Hugo, was charming, caring and generous-spirited. He gave us easy to follow instructions in the print class and demonstrated endless patience with his constant reassurance and question answering. The food was superb, whether eating at one of the elegant restaurants you selected for our ‘nights on the town’ or at Hugo’s B & B and studio.

And I will never forget walking in the Day of the Dead parade in San Miguel de Allende. I show my friends photos and try to describe the evening but always end up frustrated that I can’t quite describe the thrill of it. You just have to be there. But I believe you must be there with you, Kerri, as you navigated our way through the crowds ensuring that we got the best spots to see the spectacular costumes and to experience the atmosphere. Your guidance was masterful.

Mexico was my second trip with Kerri and the only thing that seems to help me not miss Mexico too much is planning my next trip. Thank you again for a divine adventure.

An inveterate traveller, Margaret Kelly ran her own business for many years and is now completing her PhD.

ART Travel Adventures - Mexico (2019)

My recent trip to Mexico with Kerri from ART Travel Adventures was an  amazing experience. After reading the detailed itinerary, I was excited about learning a new method of printmaking in an exotic location with a Mexican master printer. The highlight of the trip was Guanajuato with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings & working in the printmaking studio with Hugo. I was living an artist’s dream - creating art every day with nothing else to worry about. Kerri & the group were wonderful & two weeks ended with new friendships & wonderful new art ideas. I promptly booked another trip for 2020.

Margie Marks is an artist, printmaker & intrepid yachtswoman living in Melbourne

The Art of Travel - Lord Howe Island with Debbie Mackinnon (August 2019)

In August (2019) I travelled back to Lord Howe after taking part in the 2018 LHI Conservation Volunteers Program. By chance I came across Sydney based travel company Art Travel Adventures run by Kerri Ainsworth. Kerri organises artist workshops both nationally and internationally. I couldn’t recommend the Art Travel Adventure experience more. Each workshop is led by a professional artist, this time being Debbie Mackinnon, whose works I had come across previously and absolutely love! Each day Debbie would focus on developing our techniques as we created several works in response to the environment. From the turquoise blues of the lagoon to the prehistoric grandeur of Mt Gower & Lidgbird. Lord Howe is just the most beautiful place to visit (and paint).

Archie Denning is a Graphic Designer & Artist living in Armadale NSW

Art Expedition with Idris Murphy - Eastern MacDonnell Ranges (May 2019)

Both the vastness and space of the Australian outback, deserts, sky, bush and landscapes hold a very strong appeal for me. The variety of colours, terrains and light is so varied and continually changes. The great opportunities to experience the vastness, wild animals and birds, see, walk, draw and paint in these areas with like-minded people and outstanding tuition is a sheer delight! The repeat trips are most beneficial for me, as each time, I see something differently.

Written by one of our loyal guests who prefers to remain anonymous.

Dear Kerri, the trip was great in so many ways! I just want to keep that uplifted feeling that powerful landscapes exchange with the viewer! Idris is so inspirational - real, honest and knowledgeable. Thank you again for organizing this amazing adventure.

Rosie Lloyd-Giblett is a visual artist and art teacher from Queensland

The Art of Travel with Debbie Mackinnon (April/May 2019) - 3 days

Dear Kerri, I wanted to say THANK YOU to you and Debbie for a truly inspiring few days at Currawong. I’ve taken on board all the hints, tips and encouragement - Debbie you are such an exciting, wonderful artist and a generous teacher and communicator. I loved all our sessions and found your one-on-one analysis with me particularly useful. Hearing your constructive comments at the ‘show and tell’ on everybody’s creations too was invaluable. I’ll be endeavouring to do lots of experimental but thoughtful warm-ups and thumb nails - to contemplate tonal contrast, line, direction and a limited palette. Loved the idea of more focus on colour for a future workshop. Fun and enjoyment is what it is all about, which is just what Currawong was for me. All the very best to you both and happy journeys. Fran

The Art of Travel with Debbie Mackinnon (April/May 2019) - 3 days

Dear Kerri, just a note to say how much I enjoyed the Currawong workshop. What a great bunch of people! And the food and accommodation were terrific. You certainly have nailed it with finding great locations, teachers and art experiences! Good luck for your busy months ahead. I will keep following you on Instagram and Facebook and hopefully I can fit in another workshop next year. Kind regards, Monica

Our Amazing Morocco Adventure (April/May 2018) - 17 days

"Culture, Landscapes, History, Food, Colours, Kasbah's, beautiful Riads, Souks and interesting People. An Artist's and Photographer's delight, optimized by amazing light, dawn and sunsets. Morocco has it all, oh, and so much fun. Kerri and Noel were the "Dream Team." They prioritized our enjoyment, satisfaction and skill enhancement. Kerri's guidance and tireless focus on her clients was impressive. Noel's knowledge of the Arts and History interspersed with a very witty humour, kept us all entertained. Noel's Sketching, Art Tuition and Workshops were so illuminating; I took so much away from this experience. I'm now so excited about my art going forward and cannot wait to share our Morocco experience with my Artist friends and anyone else who wants to listen.

Taking away such great memories, of our time with new friends and looking forward to our next "Art Travel Adventure."

Sydney Artist Bev Myers & her husband Ron were our first guests in Morocco

ART Travel Adventures - Morocco (April/May 2018) - 17 days

"We stayed in superb, high quality, traditional riads, stunning landscapes, great balance between"We stayed in superb, high quality, traditional riads, stunning landscapes, great balance between travel and time for photography and art practice. On the art side, Noel gave practical demonstrations including working with oils, acrylics, gouache, composition, perspective, shadows and highlights and provided feedback throughout the trip. With Kerri's meticulous planning, everything went to schedule. A great learning experience, a trove of photos to work with well into the forseeable future. Highly recommended!

Jane Trethewey, is an artist, in pursuit of that elusive one-shot action painting, who enjoys exhibitions, lectures and art travel.

ART Travel Adventures - Mexico (January 2018)

 "In January 2018, I travelled with Kerri Ainsworth to Mexico, and had one of the best holiday I've had in ages! Kerri's extensive knowledge of Mexico, and ability to converse fluently in Spanish, made everything very easy for me. We stayed at small B&Bs in Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato and all three places were delightful, aesthetically beautiful and with vivacious and kind hosts who provided opportunities for social interaction over evening cocktails and delicious breakfasts. As an architect, I usually travel with a sketchbook, but on this trip, Kerri inspired me to take my sketching to new levels. Kerri's training as an artist meant that she was able to suggest new techniques for me using watercolours and coloured inks. I was very pleased with the results. Without Kerri's enthusiasm for Mexico, I wouldn't have thought to travel there - and now I'm hooked and hope to go back and explore more."

Anne Warr is a Heritage Architect who lives and works in historic Millers Point. Anne is very fond of travelling, walking and sketching.

ART Travel Adventures - Art Workshop at Ross River, Northern Territory (2018)

"Thank you Kerri, you have left me with fabulous memories I’ll treasure. Every day filled with stunning landscapes to explore. Cosy meals fireside, and great conversation in the wonderfully authentic Ross River Homestead. And Idris was a gem, kind, generous and wise, not just a great painter. Lots of rich fodder to inspire me for many days to come."

Suzie Riley is an artist from Adelaide who recently joined us on an art adventure in the outback with Idris Murphy. 

ART Travel Adventures - Art Workshop in the Hunter Valley (2018)

"Thank you so very much to you all for the wonderful Art Workshop in the Hunter Valley. It was very well organised, a happy group, top tuition, access to the well-travelled library, a great choice of venue, much enjoyed food and very comfortable accommodation."

Indi Mitchell, is an artist and a regular and much valued guest at our workshops.

"Thank you sincerely Kerri for a wonderful getaway. You have a genuine gift with people and it shows! As to the artists, Idris and Ross, they are the kindest, most positive and generous tutors around (and I've met quite a few over the years). It's a privilege to share their experience and knowledge. As they say, they are passing on their knowledge so that we can go off and study and eventually be able to tutor ourselves. I feel so lucky!"

Deborah Green loves to sketch and paint horses. She was a workshop guest on our Hunter Valley trip in March

ART Travel Adventures - Mexico (2016)

"In a fantastically intriguing atmospheric setting, unlike anything I've experienced before, we immersed ourselves in the life and culture of two beautiful colonial Mexican towns, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato. The highlight for me was staying in a gorgeous 17th century colonial mansion in Guanajuato from which each day we wandered through the colourful streets to a large art studio set in a cool, leafy, walled garden. As I've never had any artistic experience, it was a real revelation to discover that within a few days, under the tutelage of our teacher, Hugo Anaya, a very warm, talented and experienced artist, I produced a series of dry-point prints of which I feel very proud. The group was small, intimate and we all got on extremely well."

Hamish Robertson administers an architectural and urban design forum and is a former leading broadcast journalist, producing and presenting radio programs for ABC in Sydney, and has travelled extensively as a radio producer with the BBC World Service. His passion is architecture and current affairs.  He had no prior art training.

"This was a uniquely personalized trip organised and hosted by Kerri Ainsworth of ART Travel Adventures. I felt completely comfortable and safe travelling with Kerri. Her knowledge of the language and the places we visited gave us access to the 'real Mexico.' As a beginner, I found the printmaking workshop so relaxing. The teacher was incredibly supportive. And I loved the fact that every night we shared the day's adventures with others in the group over happy hour cocktails."

Glennis Murphy is an innovator having reinvented herself from professional dancer to business entrepreneur. Her vintage clothing collection is represented in museums nationally and internationally. Married to a well-known artist, she has always been interested in nurturing her own art style.

"I've travelled a lot and tourist sites don't do it for me anymore. I loved the experience of doing some self development with my creative side as well as relaxing with interesting people in a really different place. The art workshop was a highlight taking forward my embryonic art skills. Kerri did a great job of managing all the details and creating a social environment that was super fun."

Liane Ringham is a Senior Vice President of a North American technology company, entrepreneur, experienced traveller and a novice artist who is keen to develop her creative skills.

"Just back from my first trip to Mexico with Kerri Ainsworth of ART Travel Adventures. We stayed in beautiful historic towns, enjoyed the food, atmosphere and had fun celebrating the Day of the Dead festival where the locals paint their faces, dress up and dance in the streets. The Mexican people are very warm and friendly and their culture is rich and vibrant. Travelling with the group was a great way to go."

Martina O’Doherty comes from a music and art family so this was a natural choice for her and her artist daughter Lucy.  Martina has travelled with her husband’s bands around the world and eaten in some of the world’s leading restaurants. She enjoys having a relaxed schedule in interesting locations.

"Visiting Mexico with Art Travel Adventures was great, it was so relaxing having all the travel and interesting accommodation sorted out by Kerri Ainsworth. I'll never forget our printmaking teacher, Hugo Anaya, in Guanajuato whose generosity and knowledge was endless."

Lucy O’Doherty, Sydney artist and 2016 recipient of the prestigious Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship.

"Muchas gracias, cannot wait to see you back and we can do it all over again. I very much enjoyed having such a wonderful group here, the energy and the talent was the best I have experienced in a group staying for such a short time. Thank you again and again ART Travel Adventures."

Hugo Anaya artist and owner of Alma del Sol Bed & Breakfast, Guanajuato Mexico.

ART Travel Adventures - Panama (2016)

"In January 2016, a friend and I went on a 2 week, custom designed tour with Art Travel Adventures to Panama. We are both very well travelled, so were looking for a different type of travel experience, which incorporated our passions for art and adventure. Kerri at Art Travel Adventures designed a trip which suited our needs perfectly. The tour started in Casco Viejo, the old part of Panama City, where we stayed in a gorgeous fully serviced apartment, saw interesting street art, galleries and fascinating architecture. Then it was time for some real adventures! We went to the San Blas islands in the Caribbean to kayak and to hike in the cool jungle mountains of Boquete. The trip was perfectly paced and the final leg of our trip was spent in a gorgeous lodge on a Caribbean island, enjoying the sun, surf, delicious meals and sunset cocktails. We had a wonderful time and loved the combination of pampering and luxury with the contrast of adventure in remote places. I would highly recommend this boutique and very specialized tour company for a truly unique travel experience."

Renee Palmer
Principal Solutions Architect
Financial Crimes - Security Intelligence Practice
SAS Institute