Join Lora Murphy and Dietlind Vander Schaaf and the Essence of Mulranny team for an unforgettable excursion to The Kingdom of Nepal.
Art in the Himalayas
January 7th - 20th, 2025
This 14 day trip of a lifetime will include a few days in the colourful, ever friendly chaos that is Kathmandu, several days of painting in gorgeous Pokhara at the foot of the mighty Annapurna range of the Himalayas, an event at the Art Institute of Nepal and an invitation to exhibit with the Nepal Art Council. Plus sightseeing some of the most beautiful places on earth.
I am delighted to announce that Artist Dietlind Vander Schaaf will be working with me for this extraordinary adventure. Dietlind is a 500 hour certified yoga teacher who will be offering yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises) as part of our retreat. Dietlind has fifteen years of teaching experience and a masters degree in creative writing. Her love of storytelling matches her deep love of teaching and travel. For For the first five years of her teaching life Dietlind taught narrative collage and focused on using text to tell stories.
Discover the Artistic Soul of Nepal: A Journey of Inspiration and Cross-Cultural Exchange
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the heart of Nepal's artistic heritage with our exclusive art retreat. This is not just a trip; it's an immersive experience designed for artists, creatives, and anyone with a passion for cultural exploration.
Kathmandu: A Tapestry of Culture and Art
Your adventure begins in the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, a city that harmoniously blends ancient traditions with the buzz of modern life. Spend a couple of days wandering through bustling markets, finding inspiration on every corner. Marvel at the majestic Monkey Temple, where playful primates add life to sacred sites. Explore the rich history of Patan and Bhaktapur, cities that are treasure troves of traditional art and architecture. These ancient kingdoms offer an unfiltered glimpse into Nepal's past, with their exquisite temples and intricate wood carvings.
Bodhisattvas in Action (BIA) and Nepal Art Council: Celebrating Diversity and Creativity.
One of the highlights of your Kathmandu experience will be a visit to BIA, where you'll witness the incredible art created by disabled artists. This is a chance to see resilience and talent manifest in breathtaking artworks. Furthermore, embrace the honor of exhibiting your work alongside teh best of Nepals contemporary artists at a special event hosted by the Nepal Art Council. This cross-cultural exhibition is not just an opportunity to showcase your art but to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas with Nepali artists. You will be invited to have your work become part of the Nepal Art Council Permanent collection.
Pokhara: Nature's Canvas
From Kathmandu, we take a short spectacular flight along the line of the majestic Himalayas, to Pokhara, a serene oasis that contrasts the hustle of the city. Our studio, nestled on the banks of the tranquil Phewa Lake, offers uninterrupted views of the sacred Machapuchare Mountain. This setting is more than picturesque; it's a source of endless artistic inspiration. The reflection of the holy peak on the lake's surface at dawn and dusk is a sight that will stay with you forever.
Creative Explorations and Spiritual Insights
In Kathmandu, we will have an introduction to traditional Nepali art forms and techniques at the BIA Institute (Artists with diasabilites) who will give us a short workshop led by a local Thangka artist. This is an astonishing art form and will be a fun, friendly and fascinating exchange for all of us. Create your own Thangka-inspired piece using learned techniques and enjoy a profound Cultural exchange evening with local artists – share stories, art, and experiences. I guarantee you will be moved by this experience. We will also be invited to the Nepal Art council for cross cultural exchange and exhibition . Details to be decided
In Pokhara, your days will be a blend of artistic creation, exploration, and spiritual awakening. Choose to join a gentle 10 mile day trek, accessible to all, and find yourself surrounded by the majestic Himalayan range and the warm beauty and joy of the local villagers. Visit the exquisite Hindu, Lord Shiva Temple and the iconic Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist temple that stands as a beacon of peace and tranquility. Each site tells a story, adding layers to your creative journey
Following an optional trek in the Annapurna region for landscape photography and sketching.(you can do this part by car if you feel it will be too much) We will paint awy to our hearts content in our balcony studio overlooking Phewa Lake. This will be a mixed media exploration using numerous media, all supplied, working with gorgeous Nepalese handmade paper and lookimg at new ways to work on landscape and portait using collage, paint over collage and lots of mark making
Lake Phewa: A Blend of Nature and Culture
A boat trip across Phewa Lake to the sacred Barahi Temple is a must. The tranquility of the lake, combined with the spiritual ambiance of the temple, creates a perfect setting for contemplation and artistic inspiration. Along the lakeshore, indulge in the culinary delights of Pokhara, with a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. The blend of flavors mirrors the diversity of Nepal's cultural landscape.
The Nepalese people are the most friendly people i have ever met and you will be warmly greeted, invited to dance and converse wherever we go.
A Retreat Like No Other
This art retreat is more than a trip; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in Nepal's artistic and cultural richness.
Whether you're sketching in the shadow of sacred mountains, exchanging ideas with local artists, or finding inspiration in the everyday life of the Nepalese people, this journey promises to be a profound experience.
Join us in embracing the artistic soul of Nepal, where every moment is a brushstroke on the canvas of your creative journey. Book your spot now and get ready to be part of an unforgettable adventure in one of the world's most inspiring destination.
What Our Students Say About Our Retreats
“A trip with Lora isn’t a touristy vacation; it’s a life-expanding opportunity where you connect physically, emotionally, and spiritually with a place, its history, and, mostly, with the people who live fascinating lives there.“
“After our adventure in Egypt, I asked my friend Lora, where can we go next? I’d never thought of going to Nepal, but I didn’t hesitate to respond… Okay!
A trip with Lora isn’t a touristy vacation; it’s a life-expanding opportunity where you connect physically, emotionally, and spiritually with a place, its history, and, mostly, with the people who live fascinating lives there.
On my last morning in Kathmandu, I noticed a couple at breakfast who were obviously “tourists”. I asked them about their time in Nepal, and they answered, “Well… it’s been interesting.” I knew immediately that their time in Nepal had not gone deeper than comparing and judging the surface of where they had been. Thankfully, my experience had been quite different.
Thanks to Lora, our group’s experiences involved donating wheelchairs to disabled artists, dancing with Nepali girls and women, observing ancient rituals, and meeting Nepali artists, craftspeople, and shopkeepers. Our group appreciated the traditions, art forms, and generous humanity of Nepal and its people.
Never will I hesitate to travel with Lora Murphy. She opens doors of opportunity, connects people with kindness, and encourages everyone to savor the moment. If you can follow her to Egypt, Nepal, Ireland, or anywhere, don’t hesitate to say “Okay”!
— Joan Fullerton, Artist
About Lora
Lora is the Director of Essence of Mulranny, located in Mayo, Ireland.
An artist and teacher Lora is also an avid traveller ,guide and connector and she is dedicated to creating marvellously curated Retreat experiences in Ireland, Egypt and now Nepal. Lora works closely with local people everywhere she goes to make such that your experience will be special, valuable and unforgettable.
Lora Murphy was born in Ireland and educated in Ireland, the United States, and Italy. Lora earned honors degrees in both History of European Painting and Archaeology before going on to train as an oil painter in a traditional atelier in Florence, Italy. The discovery of encaustic changed her life and she now works primarily in encaustic and mixed media.
As she says, "Once I tried encaustic, I was totally hooked, and I have been fortunate to be able to apply my traditional knowledge of painting to the encaustic medium.
And I found along the way that I just love teaching.
I am so inspired by watching all of my students gain so much confidence and reach new levels with their work. Even those with no experience of either encaustic or portraiture can do amazing work.”
After living and painting all over the world, Lora moved back to her Irish roots in 2018, and created a vibrant and hugely popular art school in the West of Ireland, Essence of Mulranny (EOM) Studios at Mulranny Co Mayo where she welcomes visiting teachers and students from many countries. Lora teaches workshops in Contemporary Portraiture in Encaustic at EOM Studios and online as well as o!ering a yearly painting trip to Egypt.
Lora sold her first paintings at 12 years old and has shown her work since 1985. She has exhibited widely in Ireland, Denmark, Germany, Italy and the United States; and counts collectors from Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa.
Education
2014 — Jungian psychology with art therapy at Limerick Institute of Technology
2011 — The Angel Academy of Art, Florence, Italy
2008 - 2010 — The Crawford College of Art and Design, Cork, Ireland
1984 - 1991 — Art Students League, West 57th Street, N.Y.C.
1983 — BA Honors History of European Painting & Archaeology U.C.D. Dublin, Ireland
About Dietlind
Dietlind Vander Schaaf holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco and an MA from the University of Southern Maine. Her work has been described as “the transformation of disparate objects into elegantly simple compositions of pattern and grace” (Artscope). Vander Schaaf has exhibited at the Cape Cod Museum of Art, Conrad Wilde Gallery, The Fuller Craft Museum, and On Center Gallery, among others, and been featured in Maine Home + Design, Decor Maine, UPPERCASE, and Downeast magazines.
Vander Schaaf is a Core Instructor for R&F Handmade Paints, an Ampersand Ambassador, and the former president of New England Wax. An annual presenter at the International Encaustic Conference, she has taught workshops throughout the country, including Haystack, Arrowmont, Castle Hill, Snow Farm, Penland, Maine College of Art, R&F, and internationally at Zijdelings in The Netherlands, Essence of Mulranny in Ireland, and Kunstfreiraum in Switzerland. The recipient of grants from the Maine Arts Commission and International Encaustic Artists, as well as a Tending Space Artist Fellowship from the Hemera Foundation, she is represented by Portland Art Gallery. Vander Schaaf is also a 500 hr Kripalu yoga instructor with specialty training in meditation, advanced asana, Ayurveda, vinyasa, and pranayama.
Follow your bliss.
If you do follow your bliss,
you put yourself on a kind of track
that has been there all the while waiting for you,
and the life you ought to be living
is the one you are living.
When you can see that,
you begin to meet people
who are in the field of your bliss,
and they open the doors to you.
I say, follow your bliss and don't be afraid,
and doors will open
where you didn't know they were going to be.
If you follow your bliss,
doors will open for you that wouldn't have opened for anyone else.”
― Joseph Campbell
Here is a general itinerary for your time in this magical place.
There may be a few changes here and there, depending on weather, schedules and such but we will let you know.
Day 1: Arrival
We will collect you all at The Kathmandu Airport at whatever time you get in, whisk you away to our gorgeous Hotel which about 30 mins drive. After a small reception, we will gather for a delicious Traditional Nepalese dinner and sharing. and discuss the Itinerary.
Day 2: Kathmandu
Exploration of this glorious, chaotic and breathtakingly beautiuful city.
Morning: Visit the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Stupa).
Afternoon: Explore local art galleries shops. and visit the nepal Art Council for a reception and exhibition discussion.
Evening: Dinner at a renowned Japanese restaurant in Kathmandu.
Opportunity for shopping, massage and swimming in our lovely infinity pool.
Day 3: Day Trip
Visit BIA Institute for a demonstration of Thangka painting by artists with disabilities.
Participate in a short Thangka painting workshop.
Visit Patan Durbar Square and local art studios.
Visit the Living Goddess, Kumari and lunch at a fabulous local Restaurant
Evening: Return to Kathmandu.
Day 4: Day Trip
Today we will visit Nagarkot to see the majestic Himalayas. Prepare to be speechless!
Morning: Drive to Nagarkot. Lunch in a lovely Hotel with amazing views of the Himalayas.
Afternoon trip to Baktapur.
Explore Baktapur Durbar Square and local markets.
Evening: Return to Kathmandu. Dinner at a lovely local restaurant
Day 5: Fly to Pokhara
Today we return to the airport for a very short and exquisitly beautiful flight to Pokhara. We will be flying along the line of the Himalayas and the view as we land in Pokhara will forever be a highlight! We get settled in our lovely Hotel on the shores of Lake Phewa and eat together in the lovely courtyard of our Hotel.
Day 6: Studio
This is our first studio day where we will start work (or continue) on our travel journals. Dietlind will offer Yoga sessions in the morning
Evening, shopping in the fabulous stores that line the shore and eat together in a wonderful vegetarian restaurant.
Day 7: Trek in the Himalayas
Today is an opportunity to see the mountains close up. This is an easy trek of a couple of hours but if you are unsure, you can stay in the bus and join us later. Evening in the studio and shopping. Dietlind will offer Yoga sessions in the morning
Day 8: Studio and Excursion
Another studio day with a break to visit the amazing Hindu, Lord Shiva temple and enjoy the spectacular views of Macchupucahre mountain. Dietlind will offer Yoga sessions in the morning
Day 9: Studio and boat trip on Lake Phewa
Dinner and a dancing and music show Dietlind will offer Yoga sessions in the morning
Day 10: Studio and rest if needed
Day 11 : 1/2 day in studio
Return to Kathmandu IN THE EVENING.Watch the sunset over the Himalayas Evening meditation
Day 12 : Kathmandu Art Council for our exhibition
We will have interviews, cross cultural discussion with some of Nepals best known artists and visits to art studios.
Day 13: Kathmandu . Discussion and show and tell. Opportunity to work in journals
Day 14 ; Final day
This itinerary is built to encourage experimentation and personal growth. Feel free to diverge and explore your own creative paths in the studio
The team on the ground in Nepal are simply fabulous! Experienced, kind, open and extraordinarily helpful.
Interactions with local artists and the community are integral – they provide unique insights and inspirations.
Most importantly, enjoy the process and let the serene beauty of Pokhara guide your artistic journey!
From Our Host Lora
You are warmly invited to join us for the experience of a lifetime!
“Guest is God”
The Nepalese people are renowned for their remarkable warmth, resilience, and hospitality, embodying the very spirit of their rich and diverse cultural heritage. In the heart of the Himalayas, they have cultivated a society rooted in kindness and community, where guests are treated with the utmost respect and generosity, often regarded as embodiments of divine entities. This deep-seated tradition of hospitality is encapsulated in the phrase "Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning "Guest is God."
Their resilience shines through in the way they embrace life with positivity and strength, even in the face of hardships and challenges. This resilience is intertwined with a deep sense of spirituality and connection to their land, evident in their vibrant festivals and daily rituals that reflect an enduring optimism and joy for life.
Moreover, the Nepalese are known for their artistic skills and craftsmanship, which are not merely professions but are considered forms of cultural expression and heritage preservation. Their art and crafts, rich in symbolism and steeped in ancient traditions, reflect the harmonious coexistence of diverse ethnic groups and beliefs in Nepal.
In essence, the people of Nepal, with their gracious hospitality, enduring strength, and rich cultural expressions, are a testament to the country's beauty, not just in its landscapes but in its human spirit. They invite visitors not just to see Nepal but to experience it through their welcoming hearts and the colorful tapestry of their traditions and lifestyles.
Join us in Kathmandu and Pokhara Nepal
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Nepal is a treasure trove of art and culture waiting to be explored. This picturesque country, rich in ancient traditions and artistic heritage, invites you to immerse yourself in a world where every temple, street, and alley tells a story. Picture the intricate wood carvings of Kathmandu's Durbar Square, the vivid Thangka paintings, and the mesmerizing dance rituals of the Newari people. Each experience in Nepal is a brushstroke in a vibrant cultural canvas. Whether it's the soulful melodies of traditional Nepalese music or the colorful festivals like Dashain and Tihar, Nepal promises an enriching journey through its artistic heart. From the bustling art galleries of Patan to the serene stupas that dot the landscape, every corner of Nepal offers a unique blend of history and creativity. This is your invitation to experience a land where art and culture are not just observed but lived and breathed. Come to Nepal, and let your senses be captivated by an unforgettable tapestry of artistic wonders.
Patan, also known as Lalitpur ('City of Beauty'), is renowned for its artistic heritage. It's the birthplace of many of Nepal's most revered masterpieces in wood, metal, and stone. The city is a living museum of Newari culture, with its medieval streets brimming with the finest examples of Nepalese craftsmanship. The heart of Patan is its Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adorned with ancient royal palaces, intricately carved windows, and bustling marketplaces. The Patan Museum, housed in an old Malla Palace, is another highlight, offering a deep dive into the history and art of Nepal. The city is also famous for its metalwork and unique jewelry, which are crafted using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
Join us for a trek in the Himalayas. You will be transformed by the exquisite beauty of the small villages and the teashop where we stop to rest.
Learn about the living Goddesses and join us to visit the Kumari, travel with us to Baktaphur known as 'City of Devotees', offers a journey back in time with its well-preserved palaces, courtyards, and temples. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is celebrated for its traditional art, architecture, and pottery. The city's skyline is dominated by the towering Nyatapola Temple, the highest pagoda-style temple in Nepal. Bhaktapur's Durbar Square is a marvel of ancient Newari architecture, featuring the 55-window palace and the Lion's Gate with its guardian statues. The city is also famous for its yogurt, known as "Juju Dhau", traditionally served in clay bowls. Walking through Bhaktapur's cobblestone streets, you'll encounter artisans creating pottery and intricate wood carvings, reflecting a rich tradition that has been preserved over centuries.
Both Patan and Bhaktapur are not just historical sites but living cities where tradition and modern life blend seamlessly, offering a unique and authentic experience of Nepalese culture and heritage.
Bring your camera, your sketchbooks and prepare to lose your heart in it all, your mind full of inspiration.
Your Time in Nepal
Your 14 days will be a beautiful blend of Art, studio time, delightful excursions, cultural experiences and of course, plenty of free time to shop and explore! and the food is amazing!
What You Will Learn
Create your own, beautiful sketch journal from handmade Nepalese paper.
Course Overview:
This course is designed for travel enthusiasts and artists who wish to capture the essence of their journey in vibrant and expressive ways. Combining the fluidity of watercolors with the precision of inks, students will learn how to create stunning travel journals that are not just a record of their travels but a reflection of their artistic journey.
Basic Techniques in Watercolor:
Watercolor washes and gradients
Color mixing and layering
Creating textures with watercolors
Incorporating Inks:
Basic ink techniques: Line work and shading
Combining inks with watercolors
Experimenting with different ink tools (pens, brushes, dip pens)
Sketching Techniques:
Simplifying landscapes and architecture into basic shapes
Create interesting page layouts in your journal
Capturing movement and life (people, animals)
Perspective and proportion in sketching
Vibrant Storytelling:
Composing a visually appealing journal page
Incorporating narrative elements (captions, annotations)
Storytelling through sketches and color
The Art of Observation:
Sketching from life: Tips and tricks
Enhancing observational skills
Quick sketching techniques for on-the-go journaling
Personal Style and Creativity:
Developing your unique artistic style
Creative challenges and exercises
Experimenting with mixed media
Final Project – Your Travel Story:
Creating a comprehensive travel journal of our trip
Create a personalized travel journal using watercolors and inks
Employ various watercolor and ink techniques to bring their travel memories to life
Develop their observational skills and unique artistic style
Confidently sketch and paint landscapes, cityscapes, and everyday scenes from their travels
Please note:
We ask that if you can, you bring a wheelchair with you. It can be a used one, not motorized and it needs to be in good repair. The Airline will check it in for free and we will help at the baggage claim in KTM to collect it. I know it is a hassle but it will mean the world to them! We work with the BIA (Boddhisattvas in Action) to bring wheelchairs to Artists who are in need. Their aims are Helping differently-abled people to make their way back to a life worth living. They help disabled persons train as Artists and Craftspeople. You can read more about it here.
January 7th - 20th, 2025
Art in the Himalayas
US$4550 for a shared bedroom /bathroom
US$4950 for a private bedroom /bathroom
Included in your retreat:
Workshop instruction
Most art supplies (will be specified closer to trip)
13 nights lodging at 5 star Hotels, one in the centre of Kathmandu, with free WiFi, free private parking and room service. Among the various facilities are an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, as well as a garden. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, an ATM and currency exchange for guests Our Hotel in Pokhara is equally lovely
Transportation from Airport to Hotel. All ground transportation and internal flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back.
2lunches & 2dinners.
All tour & excursion fees
New friends and an art tribe!
Not Included:
Airfare from your home to Kathmandu
Most dinners.
Passport fees, photos and processing where applicable
Additional nights lodging
Ready to reserve your spot?
A US$700 non refundable deposit will secure your place.
(This goes directly to our partners in Nepal to secure your place and services.)
It is required to have insurance to cover your travel to Nepal and to cover your workshop fees for your possible cancellation in the event of illness. There are no exceptions for this policy. Read the cancellation policy here.
$700.00
Accommodation:
