Jo Blaker
Jo Blaker, MA RCA, delights in helping others discover a new relationship with drawing. Founded on mark making, self compassion and nature connection, Jo’s unique teaching style uplifts and inspires.
Join Forever Cornwall and professional artist Jo Blaker for a weekend of sketching in and around Port Isaac and Port Gaverne. You see the beauty, now learn how to capture it in the pages of a sketchbook! Embrace the adventure of drawing outdoors immersed in the wild beauty of Cornwall’s coast. Learn fundamental drawing skills and imposter-syndrome busting techniques that will give you the confidence to sketch freely on your travels, your dog walk or from the comfort of home.
Taking inspiration from Cornwall’s ever-changing sea, sky and shore we will let nature guide us to more fluid and expressive mark making. You will be encouraged to take risks, play with a range of drawing media and tap into your inner artist’s voice in our studio-based activities. Guided by Jo, you will experience the life-enhancing power of drawing as a tool for everyday wellbeing. Leave with a sketchbook full of memories and inspiration for drawing adventures of your own.
Across a long weekend with Forever Cornwall, you’ll:
Learn what a sketchbook can be — a creative playground, a space for practice, and an artwork in its own right.
Try observational drawing and more experimental, playful techniques.
Explore mindful ways of connecting with place, from cliffs and coves to quiet corners indoors.
Discover mark-making exercises that free your hand and help you see like an artist.
Build confidence, break through creative nerves and fill your sketchbook with colour, texture and memory.
Jo’s teaching is gentle and uplifting — you’ll be encouraged to explore, experiment and enjoy the process.
Your weekend includes relaxed welcome moments, optional supper at the Port Gaverne Hotel, morning sharing sessions, and time on Monday to ask questions and finish up your sketchbook before heading home.
Arrival: Friday, between 4pm and 5pm
Welcome session: 5.30–6.30pm
Workshops: Full days on Saturday and Sunday, with indoor and outdoor sessions
Optional group dinner: Saturday evening at the Port Gaverne Hotel
Departure: Monday, by 10am (with time to check in with Jo and the Forever Cornwall team beforehand)
You’ll stay in one of our lovely cottages or apartments at Port Gaverne, just steps from the beach. Choose to share a cottage, book as a small group, or enjoy exclusive use (supplement applies). We’ll talk through the best option for you before you book.
The weekend is semi-self-catered to keep things flexible. We provide a hearty soup supper on Friday and warm drinks during indoor workshops. Port Isaac’s cafés, shops and our neighbouring pub are a short stroll away. A simple kit list is provided ahead of time.
Port Gaverne’s sheltered cove, shifting tides and timeless fishing cottages offer endless inspiration. The pace is slow, the air is salty, and creativity flows easily here.
Price from £575* per person, and includes:
Interested?
Get in touch to receive the full weekend pack or to reserve your space.
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“Drawing enables me to tap into a fully embodied experience. As a life-long ‘over thinker’ drawing offers me mental rest — from a busy mind. My workshops and courses help people enjoy a life enhancing relationship with drawing and their creativity. I’m passionate about helping other people access the calm, joy and connection that I find in the pages of my sketchbook.”
J O B L A K E R
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