Did you know that we also get artist retreats here at St Marks Stays and this was one of Joanne’s ideal visions when we first viewed St Marks Stays? We are very fortunate to have some highly creative artists in our location and this blog series is introducing you to Ruth Clayton, who you can find at Farfield Mill in Sedbergh.
Ruth is part of The Wickerfish Gallery, alongside artist Stuart Gray and they have both run a retreat here and also come in to run workshops here for other retreats. Ruth is also going to be introducing retreat guests in September to the art of Mandala Drawing.
Ruth is a professional watercolourist who can offer group or ‘one to one’ workshops with the subject matter dependant on the experience of the group and time allocated. She demonstrates in bite sized chunks so students can follow step by step, and having personally watched what people are able to create, I can honestly say they get amazing results.
Workshops can be tailored from 2 hours to a full day and Ruth feels if you have always fancied trying your hand at painting, but are a bit nervous, then feel the fear and do it anyway. I love that attitude and we all know nothing exciting happens in your comfort zone does it.
Ruth’s workshops are a fun way to try something new and can be very meditative when students get into ‘the zone’. The concentration required for this activity can be particularly helpful for the worriers and over thinkers. Some of Ruth’s clients have even been advised by their doctors to join one of the classes, as it has been proved that getting absorbed in creativity can help them focus, concentrate and help to ‘calm the mind.’ Who doesn’t want a bit of that these days with our busy lives.
I have worked with Ruth many times since moving here and she is a joy to be around. She says she loves to watch students at the end of a session. Many people can’t believe what they have achieved, and I can understand why she gets a real buzz from that.
The thing I love about Ruth is I asked her what her hobbies and passions are for this blog and her reply shows how inspired she is …
“It may sound ‘woowoo’ to say that my creativity is part of who I am but it’s absolutely true. I can’t imagine a day where I’m not creating; If I’m not painting, I’m knitting, felting, or crafting. My true passion though, is to paint the energy of water, particularly the ocean.”
If you are inspired by this, there are three things you could do:
1 Book Ruth to run a workshop on your weekend away here, or for your retreat guests.
2 Take a look at the courses on offer on her website, or Farfield Mill website.
3 Follow her on social media to see the most stunning seascapes she paints.
(On my wish list to buy a painting from her one day – they sell quickly though!)
https://www.instagram.com/ruthclayton.artist/
