New Sketchbook tour to Odisha, India
28 October - 10 November 2024

This is a two week Sketchbook Art program / tour to Odisha, considered the ‘soul of India’
Whether you are an experienced artist or just starting out, this Art Tour will bless you with inspiration that will carry you beyond time, where spirit and matter merge. Your sketchbook becomes the cherished memory holder of this deeply nourishing, joyful journey.

I have participants returning again and again, some on their 3rd and 4th tour - testament to my impeccable research, knowledge, experience and creative teaching skills

Each day we experiment, explore and create unique impressions of our experience. We have a combination of guided workshops, independent making and collaborative opportunities with our beautiful staff.
As we are based in only 2 main locations you will have plenty of quality time. This is not a fly in, moving from one thing to another kind of tour. It is a well balanced program of meaningful interactions and art making

These highly specialised, bespoke, cultural + creative immersion Tours, are made with love and the deepest respect for land and people. We will be immersed in nature, ancient temples and small villages where you will be welcomed with warmth and kindness.

  • This is slow pace, joy filled, rural India where you will be greeted with warmth and kindness that is deeply felt. The village is considered the true, beating heart of India..just ask Gandhi.
    Odisha is not heavily touristed so you will experience an India that is still ensconced in its ancient roots
    These tours are fully escorted with a well respected guide who will accompany us the entire journey

    Cost: $A3890 pp based on twin share;
    private room/single supplement: $850
    Payment plans available
    Registrations are now open
    Registrations close on August 1, 2024
    Max 10 people

    For more information please visit:
    https://catherineparkerarttours.com/ and email catherineparkerarttours@gmail.com
    (Australia)

    🔹Tour includes: accommodation in beautiful, comfortable, character filled locations, each with private areas for Art making: from adobe inspired cottages to our exquisite palace - feel the ambience each day as we explore our surroundings; all home cooked, delicious meals (with the exception of the last 2 days), ground transport; full time guide for the duration of the tour, art tuition and so much more - please see below

🌼 5 nights in our unique, community based adobe inspired cottages in lush surrounds on a peaceful river with large rocks based in the hill district of Desia;
🌼 5 nights in our divine palace - the location set amongst tree plantations and exquisite gardens - perfect for workshops and private drawing/painting - an extra night has been added here for reflection and immersion
🌼 All home cooked, delicious meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner with the exclusion of the last 2 days
🌼 All ground transport in AC cars.  
🌼 O/N comfortable sleeper train
🌼 A well respected, professional and deeply knowledgeable guide will accompany us for the entire tour
🌼 Visits to traditional artisan families from Textiles, to Potters, Painters, Dhokra + Bell Metal, Drum makers: Odisha is known for its exquisite IKAT weaving and is highly sought
🌼 Private GOTIPUA classical dance performance
🌼 Ancient temples including Ratnagiri “Hill of jewels” a 5th century Buddhist monastery set in a lush mountainous district
🌼 Sacred dusk ceremony in the Joranda monks temple near Dhenkanal
🌼 vibrant markets
🌼 Tribal hamlets
Love, joy and inspiration!

Exclusions: international airfares + local tipping
🙏🏽 Local tipping: $140 to be paid at commencement of tour in India
Kitty contribution tbc

Art work by Leanne Bray - 3rd time participant!

Testimonials
I consider myself lucky to respond to the original email about your trip. I saw something of the ‘magic’ in you and I wanted to be part of what I thought would be a ‘carpet ride’ across some very interesting territory. Thankyou Catherine. Your very deep experiences in India with both the people and the landscape enabled me to just ‘step’ onto that ‘carpet’ and blast off on one of the best experiences in my life. Tony and I both are indebted to you and Kamlesh for all you did for us. We are now set to make plans for our next trip
Betsy Forster, Australia

My experience with Catherine Parkers Art Tour of India was more than I could imagine, an adventure of a lifetime.She is so experienced and in tune with the energy that is India, that we were all able to benefit from her deep research and love of the country and people. Every day was joy filled, educational and inspiring. We stayed in beautiful heart felt lodgings where the owners knew Catherine and welcomed us in comfort and safety. I am planning to return as soon as possible, for another magical tour with Catherine.
Karen Meadows, California USA

For more information about CATHERINE PARKER ART TOURS please visit: https://catherineparkerarttours.com/