ART IN THE ALGARVE

Set in the heart of Olhao’s protected historic area one can find Olhao’s Art School. With vaulted ceilings, Roman brick work, three courtyards and an olive tree (believed to be over 150 years old), the school has been restored offering an exceptional space for artistic creativity. There is something very romantic about the art school, it is exceptionally charming, and it has an abundance of old features and is very tranquil. A fantastic place to gather inspiration.

It is the largest private art school in Portugal with two magnificent studios and several courtyards. The ground floor studio has magnificent windows all along the right hand side of the art school, as well as stunning brick work on the high vaulted ceilings. There is plenty of space for artists to put up easels, watch demonstrations from their art tutor or transfer the day’s sketches into paintings. Outside the studio are three large courtyards which offer up plenty of space and light for some “plein air”. There is a second studio on the first floor also with fantastic light from the sky lights and large windows. With the use of 2 studios & several courtyards and terraces, students are spoilt for choice of where to paint.

The Art School can comfortably accommodate up to 15 artists and a teacher. We supply enough easels, boards, tables and chairs for the two separate studios and artists can spread out comfortably both in the studios and courtyards. As most of our courses tend to follow a similar schedule of painting and sketching outside in and around Olhao, we have portable easels, portable chairs and a couple of sun umbrellas. There are several jars and rags for artists to wash brushes and clean up. We do not supply canvasses or paper, brush’s or paints, however there is an excellent art shop in Olhao should artists wish to stock up in the week.