RESIDENCY AT WACKERS ACADEMIE, AMSTERDAM
We are excited to announce the launch of our first-ever joint artist residency! For the first time, Schoolhouse for Art and Wackers Academie have partnered to offer artists a unique week of creative freedom in the heart of Amsterdam.
July 20th - 26th
July 27th - August 1st
August 3rd - 8th
Invitation to Apply – Wackers Academie Artist Residency
A new collaboration between Schoolhouse for Art (Ireland) & Wackers Academie (Amsterdam)
We are excited to announce the launch of our first-ever joint artist residency! For the first time, Schoolhouse for Art and Wackers Academie have partnered to offer artists a unique week of creative freedom in the heart of Amsterdam.
Residency Dates (2026)
Three week options to choose from:
Week 1: July 20 – 26 (6 nights, Monday–Saturday)
Week 2: July 27 – August 1 (6 nights, Monday–Saturday)
Week 3: August 3 – 8 (6 nights, Monday–Saturday)
What We Offer
Full creative freedom – make whatever inspires you
Private apartment (second floor, no lift) with private shower & kitchen
Private access to empty classrooms with easels, still-life props & lamps
Work & stay alone in the academy after office hours
Quiet, central location in Amsterdam West – walking distance to shops, cafés, bars, and 25 mins from the Rijksmuseum
Cost
€850 per week - one artist (6 nights)
€1400 per week - two persons sharing (twin beds available)
Who Should Apply
Artists working in any medium who value uninterrupted studio time in a historic, supportive art academy setting. The person sharing does not have to be a practising artist and can be attending for company to the artist in residence.
How to Apply
Send a motivation letter including what your aspirations during the residency would be to lana@schoolhouseforart.com
Schoolhouse for Art will handle all applications.
About the Wackers Academy
The Wackers Academy is an educational institution for figurative art and exists for more than 40 years. It offers multi-year programs as well as a wide range of short courses where everyone can learn to draw, paint, and sculpt. The academy is located in Amsterdam West, at the Eerste Helmersstraat 271, 1054 DZ. It's a calm street where shops, bars and cafe's are on walking distance. The Rijksmuseum is a 25 min walk.
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Residency Periods (2026):
Week 1: July 20 – July 26 (6 nights, Monday–Saturday)
Week 2: July 27 – August 1 (6 nights, Monday–Saturday)
Week 3: August 3 – August 8 (6 nights, Monday–Saturday)
Location: Wackers Academy, Eerste Helmersstraat 271, 1054 DZ, Amsterdam West
Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
1. Eligibility
The residency is open to emerging and established visual artists working in figurative art or related disciplines. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
2. Application Process
To apply, send a motivation letter (max 1 page) to lana@schoolhouseforart.com
Applications are reviewed by Schoolhouse for Art.
Selected artists will be notified within 2 weeks after the deadline.
Upon acceptance, a 50% deposit is required to secure the booking. The remaining 50% is due no later than 30 days before the residency start date.
3. Fees and Inclusions
Cost per week: €850 (one artist) €1400 (two persons sharing)
Included:
6 nights of private accommodation (Monday–Saturday)
Private shower and kitchenette
Access to empty classrooms with easels, still-life props, and lamps
24/7 sole working and living access to the academy (evenings and nights)
Creative freedom to work in any medium or style
Not included:
Art materials (canvases, paint, brushes, etc.)
Meals and groceries
Transportation to/from Amsterdam
Travel or health insurance (mandatory for all residents)
4. Accommodation & Facilities
The apartment is on the second floor with no lift. Artists must be able to carry their own luggage and materials up the stairs.
Artists are responsible for leaving the apartment clean and tidy upon departure on Saturday.
During office hours (approx. 9:00–17:00, Monday–Friday), Wackers Academy employees work on the first floor. The second floor and classrooms remain reserved for the artist’s private use.
Shared areas (hallways, stairwells) must be kept clear.
5. Rules and Conduct
No guests or overnight visitors unless approved in writing by Wackers Academy in advance.
No smoking inside the building.
No pets allowed.
Artists must respect the building, equipment, and props. Any damage must be reported immediately and may result in additional charges.
Quiet hours: 23:00 – 08:00 (out of respect for neighbors and staff).
The academy is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings or artwork. Artists are strongly advised to arrange their own insurance.
6. Cancellation Policy
If the artist cancels more than 60 days before the residency start date: full refund minus €50 administration fee.
If the artist cancels 31–60 days before: 50% refund.
If the artist cancels 30 days or less before: no refund.
If Wackers Academy or Schoolhouse for Art cancels the residency week for any reason (e.g., force majeure, building issues), a full refund will be issued, but no additional compensation will be provided.
7. Liability
Artists participate at their own risk. Wackers Academy and Schoolhouse for Art are not liable for:
Injury, loss, or damage to person or property
Theft or loss of artwork
Delays or changes due to travel disruptions, illness, or personal circumstances
8. Code of Conduct & Termination
The residency is a professional, safe, and respectful environment. Wackers Academy reserves the right to immediately terminate the residency without refund if an artist:
Engages in illegal activity
Harasses staff, neighbors, or others
Causes serious damage to the building or equipment
Violates the no-smoking or no-guest policies repeatedly
9. Publicity & Use of Work
By applying, artists agree that Wackers Academy and Schoolhouse for Art may:
Share the artist’s name, residency period, and a selection of submitted work images for promotional purposes (social media, website, newsletter)
Request one high-resolution image of work created during the residency for archive and non-commercial promotion
Artists retain full copyright of their work.
10. Acceptance of Terms
Applying for the residency constitutes acceptance of these Terms and Conditions. Wackers Academy and Schoolhouse for Art reserve the right to update these terms before the contract is signed. Selected artists will receive a formal residency agreement to sign.
SCHOOLHOUSE FOR ART RESIDENCY AT RUSSBOROUGH HOUSE, BLESSINGTON
Schoolhouse for Art is delighted to invite artists to apply for weekly daytime residencies at the magnificent Russborough House in County Wicklow.
Each week throughout July & August 2026
Location: Russborough House, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Studio Venue: West Wing Courtyard Studios
Duration: Weekly daytime residencies throughout July & August 2026
Accommodation: Not provided
About the Residency
Schoolhouse for Art is delighted to invite artists to apply for weekly daytime residencies at the magnificent Russborough House in County Wicklow.
This residency offers artists dedicated studio space in the West Wing Courtyard Studios during Russborough House's public opening hours. Work indoors with easels and still-life props, or take your practice outdoors to the sprawling parklands and formal gardens.
There is no accommodation provided – This residency is perfect for local or commuting artists to let Russborough House's historic architectures and breathtaking grounds be your muse. Residency Weeks (Monday – Saturday) extended times available upon request
Studio access aligns with Russborough House opening hours (typically 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Week 1: July 6 – 11
Week 2: July 13 – 18
Week 3: July 20 – 25
Week 4: July 27 – August 1
Week 5: August 3 – 8
Week 6: August 10 – 15
Week 7: August 17 – 22
Week 8: August 24 – 29
Residencies run Monday–Saturday (Consider Sunday move out day)
Option to extend residency available upon request
What is included
Daily studio access during Russborough House opening hours
Private or shared studio space in the West Wing Courtyard (max 4 artists per week)
Easels and basic still-life props (lamps, simple objects)
Free on-site parking (Fob provided but must be returned otherwise penalty applied)
Access to parklands, gardens, and external grounds for plein air work
Creative freedom – any medium welcome
Storage of work outside opening hours (artists may leave the work & materials in the studio after hours at their own risk)
Tea/coffee making facilities (basic kitchenette – small fridge, kettle, sink)
What is not included
Overnight accommodation
Art materials (canvases, paints, brushes, solvents, etc.)
Cost
€100 per week
How to Apply
Send a motivation letter and a website/socials link to:
Schoolhouse for Art will handle all applications.
Why apply?
Work in one of Ireland's most beautiful historic houses
Affordable, flexible day residency – no overnight commitment
Peaceful, inspiring environment away from the home studio
We look forward to welcoming you to our studio in Russborough House this summer.
More about Russborough House
Nestled in the heart of County Wicklow, Russborough stands as a testament to Ireland’s rich architectural heritage and the legacies of the families who called it home. From its grand Palladian design to the meticulously crafted interiors and expansive Parklands, Russborough offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the 18th and 19th Centuries.
The Schoolhouse for Art is very proud to be associated with such an important part of Ireland’s art history. With a studio in the West Wing Courtyard since 2022.
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Schoolhouse for Art – Russborough Studio Day Residency 2026
No accommodation provided. Studio access during Russborough House opening hours only.
1. The Venue & Partnership
This residency is operated by Schoolhouse for Art at Russborough House (Blessington, Co. Wicklow, Ireland). Studio facilities are located in the West Wing Courtyard. Artists are guests of the estate and must respect the historical nature of the buildings, grounds, and collections.
2. Residency Periods & Hours (2026)
Available weeks (Tuesday – Saturday):
Week 1: July 6 – 11
Week 2: July 13 – 18
Week 3: July 20 – 25
Week 4: July 27 – August 1
Week 5: August 3 – 8
Week 6: August 10 – 15
Week 7: August 17 – 22
Week 8: August 24 – 29
Daily studio access: Within Russborough House public opening hours. Standard hours are 9 AM – 5 PM. Exact timings will be confirmed in the residency agreement. Seasonal or operational changes may apply.
No overnight accommodation is provided or permitted on the premises. Camper vans may be considered upon special request and may incur extra costs
No access outside opening hours. Artists must vacate the studios and grounds by closing time each day.
3. Eligibility & Application
Open to visual artists aged 18+.
Application requirements: Submit a motivation letter (max 1 page) and portfolio samples or a website/social link to the designated Schoolhouse for Art email address.
Selection: Managed by Schoolhouse for Art. Successful applicants will be notified within 14 days of the application deadline.
Schoolhouse for Art reserves the right to refuse any application without providing a reason.
4. Fees & Payment
Cost per week: €100 per artist per week (max 4 artists sharing studio)
Deposit: 50% non-refundable deposit due upon acceptance to secure the booking.
Balance: Remaining 50% due 30 days before the residency start date.
Late payment: Schoolhouse for Art may cancel the booking if payment is not received by the due date, with no refund of deposit.
5. Facilities & Access
Included:
Daily studio access during Russborough House opening hours
Easels and basic still-life props (lamps, simple objects)
Access to parklands, gardens, and external grounds for plein air work
Free on-site parking (parking fob provided but must be returned at the end of residency or penalty of €50 applied)
Storage of work outside opening hours (artists may leave the work & materials in the studio after hours at their own risk)
Basic tea/coffee facilities
Not included:
Overnight accommodation
Meals (artists must bring their own food; an on-site café may be available but not guaranteed)
Art materials (canvases, paints, brushes, solvents, etc.)
6. Rules & Conduct
No smoking inside studios, the main house, or within 10 metres of building entrances.
No guests permitted in studio spaces unless approved in writing by Schoolhouse for Art in advance.
No hazardous materials: Strong solvents (e.g., turpentine, white spirit) may be restricted. Artists are strongly encouraged to use odourless mineral spirits or water-mixable oils.
Respect for heritage:
Do not hammer, drill, tape, pin, or lean wet artwork against walls.
Use only provided easels, stands, and props.
Cleanliness: Studios must be left clean and tidy at the end of each day. Spills must be cleaned immediately. Artists are responsible for their own waste disposal (including hazardous waste such as solvent rags).
Conduct: No loud music, disruptive behaviour, or interference with Russborough House staff or visitors.
Parking: Use designated artist parking only.
Photography: Personal photography is permitted. Commercial photography or filming requires prior written permission from Russborough House and Schoolhouse for Art.
7. Liability & Insurance
Mandatory insurance: All artists must have their own public liability insurance and personal accident/health insurance.
No liability: Schoolhouse for Art and Russborough House are not liable for:
Loss, theft, or damage to artwork, materials, or personal belongings
Injury to the artist or any guests (authorised or unauthorised)
Any indirect or consequential loss
Building insurance: Schoolhouse for Art and Russborough House carry building and public liability insurance, but this does not cover the artist's property.
Left items: Any artwork or materials left on site outside opening hours without written permission is left entirely at the artist's own risk.
8. Cancellation Policy
By the artist:
More than 30 days before start date: 50% refund.
30 days or less before: No refund.
By Schoolhouse for Art / Russborough House:
If the residency week is cancelled due to force majeure (e.g., building closure, weather emergency, heritage incident, staff illness), a full refund of all fees paid will be issued. No additional compensation (e.g., for travel, materials, or lost opportunities) will be provided.
9. Code of Conduct & Immediate Termination
Schoolhouse for Art reserves the right to immediately terminate the residency without refund if an artist:
Engages in illegal activity on the premises
Causes deliberate or reckless damage to Russborough House property
Harasses staff, other artists, volunteers, or visitors
Violates the no-smoking, no-guests, or no-hazardous-materials policies
Remains on the premises outside permitted hours
Acts in any way that brings Schoolhouse for Art or Russborough House into disrepute
Terminated artists must leave the premises immediately and forfeit all fees paid.
10. Publicity & Copyright
Copyright: Artists retain full copyright of all work created during the residency.
Promotional use ONLY: By accepting the residency, artists grant Schoolhouse for Art and Russborough House a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide licence to use:
Images of the artist working (during the residency)
Reproductions of artwork created during the residency
The artist's name, biography, and selected portfolio images submitted with the application
...for promotional purposes (social media, website, newsletters, press, printed materials) with appropriate credit given to the artist.
Opt-out: Artists may opt out of promotional use by notifying Schoolhouse for Art in writing before the residency begins.
11. Amendments
Schoolhouse for Art reserves the right to update these Terms and Conditions before the final residency agreement is signed. Selected artists will receive a formal residency agreement for signature. No oral variations are binding.
12. Acceptance of Terms
By submitting an application and (if accepted) paying the deposit, the artist confirms that they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.
Schoolhouse for Art
Building a community for artists through learning, exhibitions & conversations📧 Email: info@schoolhouseforart.com
🌐 Website: www.schoolhouseforart.com
📍 Russborough House, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
DISCOVER ART IN THE GARDEN OF IRELAND - A UNIQUE PAINTING HOLIDAY
Join the Schoolhouse for Art and acclaimed artist Susan Kuznitsky for an unforgettable 9-day artistic retreat in the heart of Ireland’s scenic Wicklow and vibrant Dublin.
Saturday 29th August 2026
Dates: August 29th - September 6th 2026
Location: Wicklow & Dublin, Ireland
Skill Level: All levels welcome
Immerse yourself in a truly inspiring artistic experience with The Schoolhouse for Art’s 9-day retreat, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ireland’s east coast. Based in the picturesque village of Enniskerry, this retreat offers a rich blend of plein air painting, cultural exploration, and professional instruction, all designed to deepen your practice and connect you with Ireland’s vibrant landscapes and history.
Participants will enjoy daily painting sessions with acclaimed artist and tutor Susan Kuznitsky both on-site at the Schoolhouse for Art and out in the field at iconic locations such as the Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough, Russborough House, and the scenic seafronts of Bray and Greystones. Each setting offers unique inspiration - from majestic estates and serene monastic ruins to the rhythm of the Irish Sea.
The experience is enriched with cultural outings including visits to the National Gallery of Ireland, the EPIC Museum, and the Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship in Dublin. Artist demonstrations and an exhibition of participant work at the end of the retreat round out the artistic journey. Shared meals, including a traditional evening at Johnnie Fox’s with live Irish dancing, foster a strong sense of community throughout.
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Embark on an immersive artistic journey through the "Garden of Ireland," guided by the expert tutelage of artist Susan Kuznitsky. This is not just a painting course; it is a curated experience designed to deepen your connection to the landscape and refine your ability to translate its beauty onto paper. We will move beyond the studio walls to paint en plein air (in the open air), responding directly to the ever-changing moods of the Wicklow landscape.
Our classroom will be the breathtaking scenery of County Wicklow itself. From the wild, dramatic shores of the coast to the serene, hidden valleys nestled in the mountains, each chosen location offers a unique set of artistic challenges and inspirations. As we travel and create together, a core element of the course will be fostering a supportive and collaborative community, where students can learn not only from the instructor but from each other’s perspectives and techniques.
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Under Susan's guidance, this course will focus on four key pillars of successful landscape painting:
Capture the Moment and the Fleeting Light:
The Irish light is famous for its soft, diffused quality and rapid changes. You will learn to work with speed and confidence, training your eye to observe the essential play of light and shadow. Susan will teach you how to mix and layer pastel hues to replicate the specific time of day. This skill is about seizing the "feel" of a place before the moment passes.Create a Strong Composition:
A beautiful scene does not automatically translate into a compelling painting. At each location, Susan will demonstrate how to find and frame a powerful composition within the vastness of the landscape. You will learn to use elements like leading lines (a winding path, a flowing stream), interesting focal points (an ancient oak tree, a lone cottage), and a considered balance of shapes to guide the viewer’s eye and create a dynamic and engaging piece of art.Simplify - Say More with Less:
Faced with the intricate detail of nature, it's easy to become overwhelmed. A central theme of this course is the art of simplification. Susan will show you how to see the landscape in terms of large, cohesive masses of colour and value (light and dark), rather than countless individual leaves or blades of grass. You will learn to edit out the unnecessary, to suggest detail rather than meticulously render it, resulting in a painting that is more powerful, expressive, and cohesive.Create Depth – Aerial Perspective:
Learn the secrets used by the Old Masters to create a convincing sense of vast, receding space on a flat surface. Susan will explain and demonstrate the principles of aerial perspective: how colours become cooler (more blue-grey) and less saturated, contrasts soften, and details blur as elements recede into the distance. You will practise techniques for making your foregrounds appear crisp and close, while your backgrounds feel atmospheric and far away, giving your paintings a true three-dimensional quality.
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Susan Kuznitsky will be your mentor throughout this adventure. An experienced artist with a deep understanding of pastels, Susan is skilled at demystifying the landscape. Her instruction is known for being both insightful and accessible, helping artists of various levels to break through technical barriers and discover their unique visual voice.
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Since 1818 a small Schoolhouse nestled under the gaze of the clock tower in the heart of the picturesque village of Enniskerry in Ireland’s ‘garden county’ Wicklow. This was a school for children, a house of learning where young minds explored, examined and recited the rhymes and reasons of the unfolding world. For almost two centuries its solid walls absorbed the chants and childish chatter of thousands of young voices.
In 2011, the children marched up to the top of the hill to their perfect new school. The old schoolhouse fell silent for two years and quietly waited while its guardians debated and deliberated over the commercial and the common good…
… ‘Schoolhouse for Art’ was deemed to be a fitting substitute.
Schoolhouse for Art is in essence a facility for the study and exploration of the visual arts. Located in ‘the old schoolhouse’ in the heart of Enniskerry village it is an exhibition space and a meeting place where images and ideas mingle. It caters for adults of all abilities. The former school playground is a natural arena facing the clock tower, a three-dimensional canvas to display an evolving gallery of large pieces of sculpture. The ‘Schoolhouse for Art’ is also a host to visiting artists from across the globe who want to paint the surrounding inspiring countryside and experience the unparalleled Irish hospitality.
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Summerhill House Hotel has been awarded a 4-star rating by Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority in Ireland. The prestigious rating is a testament to the hotel’s exceptional quality and commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience.
“This recognition from Fáilte Ireland is the validation that our Summerhill House Hotel team strives tirelessly to create a beautiful and tranquil environment for our guests to relax and explore the stunning surroundings of the Wicklow mountains. This award is a testament of our commitment to providing unparallel hospitality and service. We want our guests to relax and experience the elegance of a bygone era in our beautiful period house where glamour and countryside blend in one of Ireland’s prettiest villages in Enniskerry.
Their bright and welcoming Terrace Restaurant is the perfect location for a dining experience. They offer a fine classic, temporary and fusion cuisine. Their kitchen team extracts the very best flavours from the wonderful produce Wicklow has to offer. One of the finest in Wicklow, our luxurious breakfast is served in beautiful bright surroundings.
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This agreement sets out what Schoolhouse for Art & Susan Kuznitsky agrees to provide during the workshop and what the workshop participant agrees to do in return.
To reserve your place, each participant should fill out the form upon registration to agree that you have fully read and understood the Terms & Conditions as listed below.
Art workshop total costs:
Based per room & number of occupants• Solo workshop participant €4,950
• Two workshop participants sharing a room (Limited number of rooms available) €8,995
• Workshop participant with travel companion €8,520
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Welcome to the terms and conditions for the “Art in the Garden of Ireland!” Art Experience painting workshop in Wicklow & Dublin, Ireland August 29th – September 5th 2026. Please read these terms and conditions thoroughly. This will ensure you and your fellow guests will have the best experience possible. SPECIAL NOTE: The “Art in the of Ireland!” Art Experience is a collaborative effort led by the Schoolhouse for Art and Susan Kuznitsky. It is important to understand this is a custom-built itinerary, and as such is unique. If it will improve the group’s total experience there may be changes to the published itinerary before or during our travels. If you are not a flexible and adaptable person this may not be the trip for you.
WORKSHOP PERIOD
The workshop period is from August 29th – September 5th 2026.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Participants are responsible for their own travel. We suggest you fly in to Dublin Airport and get a taxi to Enniskerry (approx. 1hour at €100 per journey). The starting point in Enniskerry Wicklow is the Summerhill Hotel https://summerhillhousehotel.com. Return flight arrangements should be arranged from your starting point to Dublin. We can provide recommendations for travel upon request. The “Art in the Garden of Ireland!” Art Experience Workshop will begin in Enniskerry at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 29th, 2026 and will conclude in Enniskerry at 13.00 on Saturday afternoon, September 5th 2026.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE FOR PAINTERS
• Pre-trip Zoom orientation
• 9 days, 8 nights hotel accommodation, in a private single or double room with ensuite bathroom.
• WIFI at Hotel.
• Transportation within Enniskerry & Dublin (If you elect not to take or you miss the scheduled transportation, you are responsible for your travel costs.)
• All breakfasts, lunches, and dinner with wine (fixed menus) for each day of the trip.
• All entrance fees and field trips as specified in the itinerary.
• 6 sessions of painting instruction with artist Susan Kuznitsky.
INCLUDED IN PRICE FOR NON-PAINTERS
• Pre-trip Zoom orientation
• 9 days, 8 nights hotel accommodation, in a private single or double room with ensuite bathroom.
• WIFI at Hotel.
• Transportation within Enniskerry & Dublin (If you elect not to take or you miss the scheduled transportation, you are responsible for your travel costs.)
• All breakfasts, lunches, and dinner with wine (fixed menus) for each day of the trip.
• All entrance fees and field trips as specified in the itinerary.
The published price is based on a minimum group of 6 registered and enrolled participants.
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Airfare and travel costs outside those specified above.
• Alcoholic drinks beyond those included with fixed menu meals.
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
• Painting supplies.
• US plug to EU-style electrical adapters.
• Entertainment or activities during scheduled free periods, and any other expenses, costs or charges not specified in the section titled “Included in the Price.”
• Items of a personal nature, including but not limited to: laundry, extra transportation services, porter services, gratuities, etc.
• US customs charges upon return for your purchases made during the trip.
PAYMENT TERMS
The trip is limited to 12 students/artists, and total number of 20 travellers. All stated prices are in EUROS (€).
TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE ON THE TRIP
A deposit of €500 for each traveller is due at the time of registration to secure your spot(s).
Final payment of the balance of the trip cost is due by April 15, 2026. Missing the deadline for the final payment may result in cancellation of your reservation.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Insurance is not provided. Personal travel insurance is strongly suggested to cover non-refundable costs such as airline tickets, loss of luggage, trip delays, medical evacuation, foreign medical coverage, and reimbursement of accommodations, workshop tuition and other tour costs. A travel/insurance agent should be able to help you with this.
WORKSHOP CANCELLATION POLICY “Art in the Garden of Ireland!” Art Experience is offered based on a minimum number of participants and may be cancelled if the minimum number of participants is not met 90 days prior to the workshop start date. If Schoolhouse for Art or Susan Kuznitsky Fine Art elects to cancel the workshop, the entire amount you have paid will be refunded to you within 14 days after the trip’s cancellation. In the unlikely event this should occur, SFA & SKFA has no other obligations to participants for cancelled trips including, but not limited to, costs or fees related to the issuance and/or cancellation of airline tickets or other travel reservations not made by SFA & SKFA. SFA & SKFA has no responsibility to provide refunds if the workshop is cancelled as the result of risk or threat of war, riot, civil strife, industrial dispute, terrorist activity, natural disaster, fire or other similar events beyond SFA & SKFA’s control. SFA & SKFA highly recommends purchasing refundable airfares and/or travel insurance.
CANCELLATION BY PARTICIPANT(S) AND REFUNDS
Cancellation by the participant for any reason more than 150 days prior to the date the workshop starts will result in a full refund of amounts paid to SFA & SKFA minus the €500 deposit. Cancellation by the participant for any reason between 150 days and 75 days prior to the date the workshop starts will result in a 75% refund minus the deposit only if SFA & SKFA is able after a good faith effort to fill the vacancy. Cancellation by participant for any reason 74 days or less prior to the date the workshop starts will result in a forfeiture of all amounts paid to SFA & SKFA.
PARTICIPANT EXPECTATIONS
Guests are required to act in a respectful and responsible manner at all times. Life in Ireland is undoubtedly different from that of many participants’ home countries, which is part of the charm and challenge of foreign travel. Meals, excursions and art classes are largely communal and participants are expected to enter into the spirit of the adventure. An overly critical or abrasive participant can diminish the experience of the entire group. Acting irresponsibly or behaving in any way that disrupts the experience of fellow participants will not be tolerated. Unruly participants will be asked to leave the group and premises immediately. We reserve the right to recover from participants the cost of any loss or damage caused by a failure to respect property, or any other form of negligence. Please understand that many of the conveniences which we accept as normal in the USA are not always as readily available in other countries. It is very important to bring with you all medications and prescriptions you will require during the trip. Your needs may be difficult to meet in another country. You should understand that the electrical systems in Ireland function on a 230 voltage current. We recommend that you bring your own adapter and bring only electronics that can handle both 110 and 230 voltage. All day trips require a reasonable amount of walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended along with a variety of clothing for various weather conditions. August/September is typically a warm, beautiful time of year in Ireland, but being a small Island with the Atlantic & Irish Sea surrounding, weather conditions can vary often. Consider consulting weather predictions in order to bring what is most appropriate for your comfort. Also, US Customs does not permit many meat products and other items into the USA. Please check before you purchase items to be sure they will be allowed entry into other countries.
LIABILITY
Schoolhouse for Art & Susan Kuznitsky Fine Art accepts no liability for any reason by participants. Participants in “Art in the Garden of Ireland!” Art Experience Workshop are 100% responsible for themselves as if they were traveling alone and are fully liable for all unforeseen events to include but not limited to acts of God or war, riots or civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural disasters, fire, adverse weather conditions, or consequences of any person during the course of the journey. The “Art in the Garden of Ireland!” Art Experience Workshop trip organizers shall not be held responsible or liable for any food-borne illness, personal injury, damage, or service failures to participants to include but not limited to delays, breakdowns, accidents, or failure of the means of transport, nor illness, bad weather, labour strikes nor for any other reason due to force majeure. These conditions must be accepted by all “Art in the Garden of Ireland!” Art Experience Workshop participants.
To reserve your place, each participant should click the BOOKING INFORMATION button and follow the steps proceeding.
PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL AT RUSSBOROUGH HOUSE
Plein Air One Day Festival - Sunday 13th September
Join us on Sunday, 13th September, for a vibrant day of creativity in one of Ireland’s most inspiring landscapes!
Set on the magnificent grounds of Russborough House.
One-Day Outdoor Painting Celebration
Day & Time: Sunday 13th September
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Russborough House, Blessington, Co Wicklow
Hosted by: Schoolhouse For Art
Join us for a vibrant day of creativity in one of Ireland’s most inspiring landscapes! Set on the magnificent grounds of Russborough House, our One-Day Plein Air Festival invites artists of all levels to immerse themselves in a full day of outdoor painting, creativity, and connection.
Tickets & Booking:
€25 per artist. Spaces are limited — early booking is recommended.
Who This For:
This event is open to artists of all levels to work outdoors in any medium — from complete beginners to professionals. Whether you're looking to try plein air for the first time or deepen your practice, you're warmly welcome.
Paint the Day Away
What to Expect: Bring your easel and supplies — or simply your sketchbook, you’ll have your canvas stamped on arrival. Then explore the grounds as you paint en plein air at your leisure among the trees, statuary, gardens, and views of the Wicklow Mountains and Lakes.
Workshops & Demos
Learn from some of Ireland’s top plein air artists with live demonstrations and Q&A sessions throughout the day. Gain tips on technique, composition, colour, and the magic of painting in natural light.
Competitions
Enter our juried plein air competition for a chance to win art materials, vouchers, and Schoolhouse for Art courses. Categories announced closer to the day
Opportunity to Exhibit & Sell
All participating artists will have the option to exhibit and sell their work created on the day in a pop-up art exhibition on-site. Bring labels, business cards, and price your work!
Refreshments
Enjoy coffee, tea, and light bites from the on-site café Gather & Gather — or bring your own picnic to enjoy on the grounds.
About the Venue:
Russborough House is a jewel of 18th-century architecture, nestled in a stunning landscape that has inspired artists for centuries. With its sweeping parklands, historic buildings, lake and mountain views, it’s the perfect plein air setting.
Rain or Shine
Irish weather can be unpredictable, but so is art! Please dress appropriately — and bring a portable easel, sun hat, or umbrella as needed. We will have some sheltered areas on the day and will be keeping a close eye on the weather forecast for updates.