Forage, Walk, Draw & Print

18th-22nd September 2025

Join Laurie King and printmaker Jemma Gunning for an immersive four-night creative retreat on the captivating Isle of Eigg. From Thursday to Monday, this retreat offers a harmonious blend of creative exploration and mindful immersion in one of Scotland’s most inspiring landscapes.

Guided by Laurie and Jemma’s mastery in drawing, printmaking and nature connection, you’ll explore the island’s wild beauty through walking, foraging, and hands-on workshops. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply curious to connect with your creativity, this retreat provides an environment for growth, reflection, and inspiration.

Rediscover your creative spirit and leave with a collection of unique artworks and a renewed sense of connection to nature.

What’s Included:

  • Four nights of accommodation in a peaceful setting.
  • Nature connection sessions and guided walks with Laurie King.
  • Drawing workshops with Jemma Gunning, suitable for all levels.
  • Botanical printmaking.
  • All art materials and foraging guidance.
  • Fully catered – delicious meals, prepared by a local caterer. We can accommodate all dietary requirements so let us know when booking.

meet Jemma

Jemma Gunning is an artist with a BA in Drawing and an MA in Printmaking. Her focus on lithographic and intaglio processes serves as a medium to explore the nuanced beauty of changing landscapes, as well as the poignant themes of abandonment and decay. She exhibits nationally and internationally, and her work can be found in private and public collections such as the V&A, Ashmolean, and RWA. Jemma is an elected academician of the Royal West Academy and a member of the Royal Society of Painter Printmakers.

In 2016, she co-founded Bristol Print Collective to promote local printmaking and to share her love and passion for the printed mark. In 2021, Jemma established her own print workshop, providing a creative space for experimentation and collaboration within the artistic community.

Beyond her art, Jemma is a nature enthusiast currently pursuing her mountain leader qualification. Her journey reflects a genuine commitment to her craft, community engagement, and a love for the outdoors, embodying a down-to-earth approach to both art and life.

Visit her website.

Itinerary*:

Thursday – Arrival & Welcome
  • Afternoon:
    • Arrive on the island and settle into your accommodation.
    • Enjoy tea and light refreshments while meeting your hosts and fellow participants.
    • Laurie will lead a gentle introduction woodland walk, pointing out some of the landmarks of Eigg.
    • Welcome dinner
Friday – Discovering Eigg: Nature Connection & Drawing Foundations
  • Morning:
    • Buffet breakfast.
    • Begin the day with a nature connection session led by Laurie, focusing on sensory awareness and mindful walking.
    • Explore Eigg’s coastline and woodlands, foraging for natural materials to inspire your creative practice.
  • Afternoon:
    • Drawing workshop with Jemma: Learn foundational techniques to capture the textures and patterns of the landscape. Create expressive sketches inspired by the morning’s discoveries.
    • Delicious lunch.
  • Evening:
    • Communal dinner
    • Fireside chats
    • Optional journaling time to reflect on the day’s experiences.
Saturday – Foraging & Botanical Printmaking
  • Morning:
    • Buffet Breakfast
    • Guided foraging walk with Laurie, discovering the island’s plant life and its creative and practical uses.
    • Collect plants for the afternoon’s printmaking session.
  • Afternoon:
    • Botanical printmaking workshop with Jemma & Laurie: experiment with monoprinting techniques, layering textures and patterns using the gathered materials.
    • Focus on creating works that reflect the essence of Eigg’s natural beauty.
    • Delicious lunch.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner and optional fireside chats.
Sunday – Exploration & Creative Synthesis
  • Morning:
    • Buffet Breakfast.
    • Embark on an adventurous walk to one of Eigg’s iconic landmarks, such as An Sgurr. Laurie will guide reflection exercises to deepen your connection with the environment.
    • Take time to sketch or journal in a chosen spot, capturing the spirit of the landscape.
  • Afternoon:
    • Final drawing and printmaking session with Jemma: Refine and complete your artworks, integrating the techniques and inspiration gathered throughout the retreat.
    • Individual feedback and support to help you develop your creative voice.
    • Delicious lunch.
  • Evening:
    • Closing group dinner and celebration. Share your completed pieces and reflect on the journey with the group.
Monday – Farewell
  • Morning:
    • Farewell breakfast and group reflection.
    • Final opportunity to share contact details and say goodbye to the island.
    • Depart from Eigg, carrying creative inspiration and a portfolio of unique artworks.

*This itinerary may change slightly to adapt to wild island weather conditions!

Booking

Early eagle (booked before 31st March) £495 (bunk room); £695 (single room)

Regular raven (booked between 31st March – 18th August) £525 (bunk room); £725 (single room)

Contact Laurie to request a booking pack