Mon 21-Sat 26 Aug 2023
Our intimate retreat takes place within a beautifully restored 19th-century chapel, nestled in the heart of the historic Welsh town of Abergavenny. The chapel's tranquil garden provides the perfect sunlit sanctuary for relaxation and inspiration. Limited to a small group of participants, you'll enjoy an extraordinary experience designed to ignite your artistic development and offer you gentle guidance in creative embroidery, time and space to express yourself through stitch. Open to all levels including beginners.
THE WORKSHOP
During this immersive workshop, you'll delve into the art of expressive embroidery. We will seek inspiration from nature and your own lived experience. This is an opportunity to explore new ideas, and engage in creative play at a gentle pace. As a member of our small, supportive group, you'll benefit from instruction and feedback from me, as well as camaraderie and encouragement from fellow textile enthusiasts.
Your retreat experience includes a carefully curated materials kit, complete with fabric, needles, embroidery threads, and a hoop. No prior embroidery experience is required for this workshop.
NOURISHING EATS
Savour delectable, locally-sourced meals prepared by our talented chef, who will craft seasonal dishes based on the freshest ingredients from local markets. The diverse menu caters to a variety of preferences, from meat lovers to vegans. Throughout the day, you'll have access to a delightful selection of teas, coffees, and treats to keep your creative energies flowing. Lunches would be served at the Chapel cafe where the workshop will be held and dinners would be served at the Angel Hotel, our accomodation.
EXPLORING ABERGAVENNY AND BEYOND
In addition to the embroidery workshop, our retreat includes a group excursion to visit the nearby village of Hay-on-Wye, renowned for its literature festival and picturesque cottages. With ample time to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy the stunning surroundings, you'll find inspiration at every turn.
ACCOMODATION
Our retreat offers luxury accommodation at the Angel Hotel, a 4 Silver Star hotel that combines elegance with modern comforts. Situated on the edge of the Brecon Beacons in Wales, this former coaching inn boasts a smart Georgian façade, placing you right in the heart of Abergavenny. Each room comes with an ensuite bathroom. The hotel's communal spaces provide the perfect backdrop for after hours relaxation and socializing.
Whether you're a seasoned embroiderer or just beginning your journey, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to slow down, reconnect with your inner artist, and experience the wonder of embroidery. Join us in Abergavenny, Wales, from August 21-26, 2023, for an unforgettable adventure.
TRAVEL
Abergavenny is situated between 7 hills on the Welsh/English border, it is often referred to as the 'Gateway to Wales'. The Angel Hotel is only a 2 minute walk from our workshop venue, the Chapel and is within easy access to Abergavenny Train Station (5 minute by taxi or 14 min walk).
Trains from London (Paddington) to Abergavenney take about 2.5 - 3 hours.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT ISN'T INCLUDED
Airfares, train fares to Abergavenney.
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE
Mon 21 Aug- arrival by late afternoon/evening, settle in, dinner
Tue 22 Aug- Embroidery Workshop
Wed 23 Aug- Embroidery Workshop
Thu 24 Aug- Embroidery Workshop
Fri 25 Aug- Visit to nearby historic town of Hay-on-Wye, picnic (weather permitting)
Sat 26- Embroidery Workshop. Informal show & tell with the group. Departure at 4pm.
ITERNERARY
8.00 am-10 am Breakfast
10-1 pm Workshop
1 pm-2.30 pm Lunch
2.30-5.30 pm Workshop
7-8.30 pm Dinner
9 pm onwards after-hours embroidery (self-led)
£2800 . 00
5 Nights/6 Days
£2500 . 00
5 Nights/6 Days
DEPOSIT
To book your place, please fill out the form below. 25% of the workshop fee is required to register. We will send you a payment link for this. The remaining amount is due by 30 June 2023.
Please note all bookings are first come first serve basis.
REFUND POLICY
All payments including the deposit are non-refundable unless we are able to fill you spot or we cancel the workshop. We highly recommend travel insurance for your airfare and workshop fees in case you are unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.
SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS
25% of the fee is due on registration. This is non-refundable, unless we are able to fill your spot or we cancel the workshop. Remaining payment is due by 30 June 2023.
PAYMENT
Payment can be made by debit or credit card. We will send you a payment link upon receiving your booking form.
QUESTIONS
If you have questions about anything not covered here, please contact us by emailing at info@ektakaul.com and we will do our best to help you.
Ekta Kaul is an award winning artist known for her narrative maps that explore places, history and belonging through stitch. Her work is held in several permanent collections including at the Crafts Council (UK), Liberty of London, the Gunnersbury Museum, Tatter Blue Library Brooklyn and those of private collectors. Ekta loves to inspire creativity and has been invited to teach at the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, Tatter Library Brooklyn, TOAST, the Makerie and many more. She has received awards from the Crafts Council and the Arts Council England and was the winner of 2021 Cockpit Arts Textile Prize. Her work has been featured in Financial Times, BBC Radio 4, Vogue, Selvedge and Embroidery Magazine among others. She works from her studio in leafy West London, UK.