From Creative Funk to Flow in Just 2 Minutes
Have you ever experienced a creative funk - a time when, despite your longings, you have not been able to access your creative flow? It can feel impossible to recover from. I understand this because I’ve been there.
A couple of weeks ago, over a delicious dinner with friends, I was asked how I stay ‘in flow’, whether it’s simply motivation that drives me. The answer is simple and complex - it’s a ‘both… and’ answer.
In my experience, every time I head into the studio to paint, it’s a kind of restart. The act of picking up my palette knife to mix paint is just one in a series of small yet crucial recommitments to create. Each requires intentionality, followed by grit.
Yet, there are ways to ease yourself into the risk-infested process of creativity. Having the resolve to show up isn’t enough - or perhaps it’s too much. I suggest we approach creative work like play - with curiosity, attention, wonder, and willingness. We need to focus on the process, embracing the possibilities afforded by accidents and the unexpected. We need to be both intently involved and relaxed, challenged and responsive.
That sounds like a conundrum, yet there are simple, accessible ways of achieving this state of consciousness. The video below demonstrates a super easy activity I sometimes use to ‘grease the wheels’. It requires nothing but a scrap of paper, pencil or pen and the courage to try something new. It can be completed in a few minutes or take as long as you like. There is no pass or fail possible! This activity is entirely process-oriented, rather than product-oriented.
So, please have a go and let me know what you notice.
Blue Mountains Landscape Painting Retreat
Develop Confidence and Technique with Plein Air Landscape Painting
Connect with Nature, Relax and Be Rejuvenated
10 - 13 NOVEMBER 2025
Blue Mountains Landscape Painting Retreat
4-Day Landscape Painting Workshop
Painting + Yoga + Meditation + Bushwalking
SOLD OUT
The spectacular Blue Mountains, only 100 km west of Sydney CBD, has long been a favourite destination for artists, nature lovers, and those seeking respite and refreshment from the demands of everyday life. Dramatic vast valleys, glowing sandstone cliffs, and sparkling waterfalls provide endless inspiration for artists.
Join experienced retreat facilitator and landscape artist Corinne Loxton at a spectacular retreat base with unsurpassed views on the cliff edge in Blackheath to explore and develop your painting skills and learn about accessing your creative flow. You will be encouraged to follow your intuition and tap into your unique style with Corinne’s expert guidance.
The Blue Mountains Painting Retreat is a 4-day plein air painting retreat in breathtaking surroundings, where you will learn new techniques and grow in confidence painting outdoors alongside like-minded people. With uninterrupted views of the Grosse Valley, to Pulpit Rock and beyond, the secluded location ensures you will disconnect from everyday life and immerse in nature. You’ll have time to rest, meditate, journal, bushwalk, or just curl up with a great book in the beautifully landscaped gardens.
In addition to painting tuition, Corinne will introduce you to creative flow practices — contemplative walking, meditation, mindful movement, yoga, and journaling. Together, we’ll visit local art galleries, share meals, and enjoy plenty of time for personal reflection, grounded movement, and restoration so you feel re-energised and inspired after the 4 days.
What’s included (from 1 PM Monday to 2:30 PM Thursday):
A magnificent location and luxurious facilities at Allview Escapes, Blackheath. [Directions here]
7 plein air painting tutorials in breathtaking mountain locations
Catered lunches from Monday to Thursday
Direct walking access from your room to spectacular bush tracks between Pulpit Rock and Govetts Leap
2 painting boards or canvases
Private feedback sessions
2 guided bushwalks
2 guided meditation sessions
2 yoga sessions
Delicious morning & afternoon teas each day
Art Materials
BYO: After booking, you’ll receive a comprehensive materials list via email.
OR hire an Art Kit for $140 (all booked now sorry)
Kit includes:
oil or acrylic paints, brushes, palette knives, palette, solvent, jar, paper towel/rags, pencils, clips, apron, baby wipes, viewfinder
Payment Details
Retreat fee: $730
Meals
Morning and afternoon teas and lunch from Saturday to Monday are included.
Other meals can be self-prepared in the fully equipped kitchens.
Accommodation Options
10 - 13 November - QB at Allview Escapes in Blackheath $200 per night
Retreat Cancellation Policy
As group numbers are essential to run this retreat, the following cancellation fees apply:
On or before 6 weeks prior: FULL REFUND
On or before 4 weeks prior: 50% refund of the workshop fee
Less than 4 weeks prior: No refund
By purchasing this workshop, you agree that you have read and accepted these conditions.
