My Guests painting on the Prosecco Road

For art lovers yearning for more than the traditional holiday, Dermot’s learn-to-paint holidays offer an extraordinary blend of travel, inspiration and hands-on guidance.

Every Dermot Cavanagh holiday is conceived from this acclaimed BBC TV artist, tutor and broadcaster’s own personal experience, his painting holidays elevate the getaway by combining masterful instruction and mindfulness with immersion in some of Europe’s most enchanting destinations. “Travelling as an artist allows you to experience a place more deeply, you slow down, become more observant, you notice colour, atmosphere, and light. I’ll help you capture memories that stay with you long after your journey ends" says Dermot. “Painting on location transforms travel into an unforgettable experience, every brushstroke forms part of the journal of your journey.”

My guests with paintings in Slovenia

What sets these painting holidays apart is Dermot’s years of experience and local knowledge of the places he visits, he has thoughtfully designed and crafted painting excursions that are sure to inspire any painting enthusiast. Dermot has personally selected breathtaking locations, from the dramatic coastal hues of Italy’s celebrated Portofino promontory, the famous wine regions of the Prosecco Road and the villages of the Barolo region. From the rich cultural tapestry of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula to the majesty of Slovenia’s Julian Alps, and the timeless beauty of the city of Venice.

Each painting holiday is structured to appeal to all levels of ability, welcoming complete beginners as well as more experienced artists.

My Painters on the Prosecco Road

Participants benefit from Dermot’s expert tuition, which includes daily demonstrations, hands-on guidance and step-by-step techniques designed to build confidence and expand artistic skills. With small group sizes, everyone receives plenty of individual attention, a hallmark of Dermot’s relaxed, inspiring and highly personal teaching style.

Ready to attend a painting course or holiday? Find all the essential advice you’ll need to help you prepare, with our ultimate guide to painting holidays.

The experience extends far beyond studio walls. Typical days run from morning to late afternoon, with excursions to handpicked scenic spots where the real world becomes the perfect natural muse. You might find yourself painting the pastel-hued houses of a Mediterranean village, capturing the serene blue of Adriatic waters, or exploring Venetian canals by private motor launch before settling down to paint the city’s historic charm.

As well as intensive art sessions, these holidays include quality accommodation, internal transfers, and rich cultural experiences that celebrate the character of each destination. Sightseeing, local cuisine and shared dinners are all part of the convivial atmosphere that makes these artistic escapes so memorable.

Whether you’re seeking to improve your painting technique, find creative inspiration, or simply enjoy an unforgettable artistic adventure, Dermot Cavanagh’s learn-to-paint holidays offer a rare opportunity to see the world through the eyes of an artist, and return home with both new skills and lasting memories.

About Dermot Cavanagh

Dermot Cavanagh

Acclaimed Irish artist, tutor and broadcaster Dermot Cavanagh is best known to many as a familiar face from BBC television. During his 74-episode TV series ‘Awash with Colour’, he taught a host of celebrities to paint, but his passion extends far beyond the screen. Through his learn-to- paint activities, Dermot has built a reputation for inspiring people of all abilities to discover their creative potential in a relaxed, encouraging environment. With decades of experience teaching and painting around the world, Dermot brings together expert instruction, infectious enthusiasm and a deep love of travel, creating painting holidays that invite participants not only to learn how to paint, but to truly see and experience the places they visit through an artist’s eye.

Find out more and view available holidays on the website.