There’s a glimmering brilliance to Orkney in June. It’s joyously decorative as if it’s been storing all its light, energy and colour for these short summer months. Sea cliffs are carpeted in pinks and reds of thrift, campion and wild thyme, and meadowlands glow with the yellows of buttercups and cowslips. The breeding season has started for the Islands varied birdlife and the rugged cliffs are alive with seabird colonies.

Here the North Sea meets the Atlantic and the currents of wind and tide show in dancing light and movement around the 70 islands of the archipelago, which amazingly is only 50 miles south of Greenland.

During this week-long Art Safari, John will share some of his favourite painting spots on Orkney Mainland and neighbouring Isles. Our painting explorations will include: the panoramic seascapes around Birsay Bay, the imposing Neolithic standing stones at Brodgar, Yesnaby’s dramatic two-legged sea stack, and the beautiful contrasting landscapes of the Island of Hoy with its high hills, sweeping moors and stunning beaches.

The sea cliffs are breath-taking places to sit and paint birds, as well as for the sheer drama of your surroundings. While you are painting, keep alert for dolphins, harbour porpoise and minke whale, which often feed in the waters around Orkney.

Our base is the Ferry Inn in Stromness, which is centrally located with good access to the ferries and very convenient for exploring the town.  All rooms have a private bathroom equipped with a shower.

Work in pencil, watercolour or pastel in the field with one of the UK’s top wildlife artists.

Please note, our Orkney itinerary will depend upon the weather and the sailing times of inter-island ferries.

Check out an interactive version of the itinerary here