Sept. 2009 – ‘Introduction to Drawing & Painting’ with Yvonne Ayoub

The course begins with a series of discussions and exercises in the studio, to establish YOUR ‘artist within’, identify YOUR OWN personal colour palette and equip you with the wherewithal to find your own path and style, with confidence.

This is followed by an insight to of the basic principles (line, form, perspective, colour theory and practise, design i.e composition) and an exploration of a variety of mediums (watercolour, acrylics, oil painting etc) and techniques (such as glazing) – as laid down by the Great Masters.

Before venturing out to sketch and paint en plein air:

In picturesque Skiathos Old Town:

And at any of the renowned beauty spots, around the island

With spectacular results!

There’s plenty of free time for relaxation:

Eating and drinking!

and the all important socialising too:

And excursions, such as the boat trip to neighbouring islands of Skopelos and Alonnissos:

Leaving Skiathos behind, we head out to sea…

In the safe hands of Captain Kyriakos and the crew of the Aghios Nicholas.

Throughout the trip, our guide, Victoria Sandels – a mine of information-  points out all the historical and folkloric spots along the way (including all the now famous locations where the film ‘Mamma Mia!’ was shot!)

Passing through the waters of what has now been designated a World Marine Heritage site, we sometimes come across playful dolphins, swimming alongside.

If we’re very lucky we may even spot the shy Mediterranean monkfish seal – now a protected species.

Our first stop is Patitiri Harbour on Alonnissos:

Where a coach awaits to take us up the mountain to the once abandoned, but now beautifully restored, ‘old town’:

the views from the top are as spectacular…

as the village is picturesque:

Everywhere is a riot of colour!

Then it’s back to boat for the next leg, to Chora (Skopelos Harbour)

Gliding through the impossibly turquiose waters, that are typical of late September, as we near the largest island of the Sporades

The beautiful town, protected from the elements in its natural harbour teeming with colourful fishing boats, is where we stop for lunch with the crew

Freshly caught and deep fried Threpsala (like squid) and delicacies such as courgette flowers stuffed with rice, accompanied by the obligatory ouzo, is the order of the day

At this typical ‘Ouzeria’

Then a chance to explore the old town with it’s hundreds of tiny churches and pottery stores through a maze of narrow passage ways and cobbled streets, before

climbing back on board for the journey home:

Heading towards the setting sun after a weary but wonderful day…