EMAIL[email protected]
John has been painting professionally for over 40 years. His work possesses an emotive power and vitality that is enhanced by his use of light, colour and a strong sense of design. John’s passion for his work and his open, very informative approach to teaching make him a much sought after tutor. John’s knowledge and enthusiasm will inspire you to produce better paintings in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.
DAY 1: Sunday 7 June 2026 Darwin
Darwin is a vibrant, contemporary city, offering a
wide range of modern amenities. With a youthful
and dynamic population, it exudes a laid-back and
welcoming vibe. At 1:00 pm, the group will depart
from the hotel on a brief sightseeing tour of Darwin,
followed by a delightful welcome drinks and dinner
gathering. This will be a fantastic chance to mingle,
relax, and connect with your fellow artists.
DAY 2: Monday 8 June 2026
Darwin/Litchfield National Park
Today, we travel to Litchfield National Park, a
destination renowned for its stunning waterfalls that
tumble into crystal-clear pools, the iconic magnetic
termite mounds, and the fascinating sandstone pillars
of the Lost City. In this breathtaking setting, John will
start the first painting session, guiding you through
the process of capturing the park’s natural beauty. We
return to Darwin late afternoon.
DAY 3: Tuesday 9 June 2026
Kakadu National Park
Today, we cross the vast Marakai Plains on our way
to Kakadu National Park, one of Australia’s true
natural wonders. Known for its diverse landscapes,
abundant wildlife, and some of the nation’s most
significant Aboriginal rock art, Kakadu offers a wealth
of inspiration. In the afternoon, John will lead you to a stunning painting location near our hotel, where
you can capture the essence of this remarkable
environment. Each evening, a delicious dinner will be
provided during our stay in Kakadu, ensuring a perfect
end to every adventurous day.
DAY 4: Wednesday 10 June 2026
Kakadu National Park
Today, we will begin the morning painting at the
stunning Nourlangie Rock. In the late afternoon, we will
set out on a sunset cruise along Kakadu’s Yellow Water
Billabong, where you will have the chance to witness
the area’s rich wildlife and tranquil beauty as the sun
sets over the water. Afterward, we will come together
for a delicious included dinner, sharing stories and
reflecting on an unforgettable day.
DAY 5: Thursday 11 June 2026
Kakadu National Park
Today, we journey to Arnhem Land, accompanied
by a traditional Aboriginal guide who will lead us
to exceptional rock art sites on Injalak Hill (Long
Tom Dreaming). This region is home to some of the
finest rock art in Australia. From the top of the hill,
the panoramic view is nothing short of breathtaking,
offering sweeping vistas over the floodplains and the
majestic Arnhem Land escarpment. We will then visit
the Injalak Art and Craft Centre in Gunbalanya, where
you will have the chance to explore and purchase unique pieces from this non-profit
Aboriginal organisation. You will also witness
traditional Aboriginal artists painting and observe
the intricate process of women weaving pandanus
baskets. Lunch will be included and we will return to
our hotel in the late afternoon. This evening there will
be an included dinner.
DAY 6: Friday 12 June 2026 Kakadu National Park
Today marks our final day of painting in Kakadu.
John will begin with a demonstration, followed by
personalised guidance for each workshop participant
throughout the day. You will receive one-on-one
attention to refine your skills and make the most of
this unique opportunity. This evening there will be an
included dinner.
DAY 7: Saturday 13 June 2026 Katherine
Today, we leave Kakadu and make our way toward
Katherine, a remarkable region where the Outback
meets the tropics, boasting breathtaking gorges,
misty waterfalls, thermal springs, and a deep cultural
history. En route, we will stop at Pine Creek, where
John will lead a painting demonstration, followed by
personalised guidance for each workshop participant.
We will conclude the day with a delicious included
dinner, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
DAY 8: Sunday 14 June 2026 Katherine
After breakfast, we will set off on a sightseeing tour of the stunning Katherine Gorge. The group will take a boat ride along a section of the gorge, offering breathtaking views perfect for photography. You will also have time to sketch and paint, capturing the beauty of this remarkable landscape. This evening there will be an included dinner.
DAY 9: Monday 15 June 2026 Kununurra
Today, we cross the border into Western Australia and make our way to Kununurra, the eastern gateway to the Kimberley. This vibrant and welcoming town is at the heart of the ambitious Ord River irrigation scheme, offering a blend of modern charm and natural beauty. This evening there will be an included dinner.
DAY 10: Tuesday 16 June 2026 Kununurra
After breakfast, John will lead a demonstration at the nearby Mirima National Park, followed by personalised guidance for each participant. Known as the “mini Bungles,” this hidden valley features 350-million-year-old sandstone cliffs, amphitheatres, gullies, and ridges that bear a striking resemblance to the famous Bungle Bungle Range.
DAY 11: Wednesday 17 June 2026 Kununurra
Today, we journey along the Victoria Highway to El Questro Station, nestled within a million acres of rugged Kimberley wilderness. A working cattle station, El Questro is home to around 5,000 crossbred Brahman and Shorthorn cattle. John will select a stunning subject for today’s painting session, ensuring another unforgettable day of artistic inspiration amidst this breathtaking landscape.
DAY 12: Thursday 18 June 2026 Kununurra
This morning, we will head to Lake Argyle to paint the historic Durack Homestead. Originally constructed in 1895 by the Durack family on Argyle Downs Station, this magnificent homestead offers a rich blend of history and stunning scenery, making it the perfect subject for this morning’s painting session. In the afternoon, we will gather for a final critique session, offering a chance to reflect on our work and the journey. We will conclude the day with a celebratory farewell dinner, marking the end of our unforgettable time in the Northern Territory.
Day 13: Friday 19 June 2026 Departure
After breakfast, workshop participants will be transferred to Kununurra Airport to catch their flights home, taking with them cherished memories and new artistic skills.
| TWIN FARE PER PERSON | SINGLE FARE | NON PAINTER DISCOUNT |
|---|---|---|
| AU$ 7,795 | AU$ 9,490 | AU$250 |
1. Payment Conditions:
A reservation deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking. Final payment is due 60 days prior to the date of departure. A 1.5% administration charge will be added to payments by Visa, Mastercard and Amex.
2. Alteration to Workshop Vacation Price:
The Painting Workshop Vacation price is subject to change in the event of unforeseen circumstances and changes in the cost of travel and accommodation services. Should any increase in the Workshop Vacation price be unacceptable to the registered member, a full refund of monies paid will be made.
3. Cancellation and Amendments:
Cancellations received in writing 60 or more days from the date of departure will result in a cancellation fee of $500 per person. Cancellations received 60 or fewer days before departure will result in a loss of all monies paid. There are no refunds for services not utilized while on a Workshop Vacation. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover Workshop members for the consequences of unforeseen events during the Workshop Vacation and for cancellation fees that could result from illness, accident, death or other contingencies. Once a booking has been confirmed, one amendment to travel arrangements will be made free-of charge. Subsequent changes to travel arrangements will incur an amendment fee of $25 per change in addition to supplier charges.
4. Minimum Workshop Vacation Numbers:
Each Painting Workshop Vacation has been priced on the basis of a minimum number of members travelling. In the event that fewer than the minimum number of members have confirmed their booking 60 days from the date of commencement, Travelrite International reserves the right to cancel the Workshop Vacation, giving a full refund of monies paid, or to offer arrangements to proceed with the Workshop Vacation at a modified price.
5. General:
In the unlikely event that the Workshop tutor is unable to perform his or her duties due to unforeseen contingencies, Travelrite International reserves the right to substitute another artist as tutor or to continue with the Workshop Vacation as planned or to provide a cash refund to Workshop members equivalent to the value of the Workshop leadership. International Artist Painting Workshops can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair-climbing in the regions visited and it is important that all members have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in these activities without the need of assistance from others.
6. Tax Considerations:
If you regularly sell your own paintings, you may fall into the semi-professional or professional category for taxation purposes and the tour cost may be tax-deductible. We recommend that you seek the advice of a qualified tax adviser.
7. Responsibilities:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd., their agents, officers, affiliates, and/or suppliers of services pursuant to or in connection with these Workshop Vacations shall act only as agents in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or of default of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, company or person rendering any services included in the Workshops, or by act of God. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labor disputes, machinery breakdown, quarantine, government restraints, weather, terrorism, or other causes beyond their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expenses, omissions, delays, rerouting or acts of any government or authority. Baggage remains at owner’s risk throughout the Workshop Vacation. The passage contract in use by the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of these Painting Workshop Vacations and/or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any Painting Workshop Vacation and/or to make such changes in the Painting Workshop Vacation as may be found desirable for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying-out of the Painting Workshop Vacation. Registration for any Painting Workshop Vacation constitutes a contract which shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be taken in the State of Victoria.
How to Book:
Bookings can be made by completing the online booking form or sending it with a deposit to:
Melbourne, Australia
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
Address: 423 Whitehorse Road
Balwyn, VIC, 3103, Australia
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Phone: 03 9836 2522
Email: www.paintingworkshops.net
“It was so well organized. We got to see all the best places, but without feeling we were being herded around like cattle, like you do on some tours. There was plenty of time to paint, and the instructor told me more about how to improve my painting style in weeks than I have learned all year back home. I really did get individual attention.”
“I particularly enjoyed meeting people with similar interests and having a working reason for being in a location.”
