Two charming holiday cottages in the lovely department of Charente, France

In the renovation and conversion of the three barns Nick and Jane have been inspired by the ideas of the "Omega Workshops" established by Roger Fry and Vanessa Bell in 1913 London. Everything is homemade and recycled, from the barn door which serves as the kitchen table, to the homemade terracotta tiles which line window sills and sinks.

"We like to undertake almost all types of design, particularly those in which people can engage in without specialised training in craftsmanship."

Nick Hamper studied Fine Art at the Slade School of Art and the Royal College of Art, London. Jane gained her B.A. at Sussex University and a Post Graduate Certificate of Education in Art at Westminster College, Oxford. There is an exhibition of Nick and Jane's paintings on display all year round at the house.

"We offer courses in textiles, pottery, painting, drawing and sculpture. We aim to take a practical, economical approach to all these techniques. Our philosophy is to encourage free play and delight in making all the objects of everyday life. We dislike the smooth finish of mass produced machine products and encourage our students to develop character in their work, using hand craftsmanship"

Art Courses

The course timetable is flexible to suit your requirements allowing you to participate in the class you want. Your course can be from one half day up to a week or more depending on the length of your stay. You can mix and match classes in different subjects for variety if you wish. Let us know any specific requests you may have and we will be happy to accommodate them.

Painting courses can be in the medium of your choice, oil, watercolour, gouache etc

Home . email: ljtricker@hotmail.com  .  Tel. 00 33 (0)5 45 71 59 01