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Welcome to Olive & Plum Art Academy

Discover a fantastic collection of art workshops and classes designed for you. Held in our Worcestershire studio, these sessions are led by some of the best art teachers, ready to help you develop your skills and creative confidence.

With breathtaking views of the River Severn and the Severn Valley Railway, you'll find the perfect, inspiring setting to paint and learn. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your techniques, you’ll be guided by skilled artists who love to teach and share their expertise. Explore new styles, push your creative boundaries and immerse yourself in an experience that’s as enriching as it is inspiring.

Why Choose Olive and Plum Academy?

An Idyllic Setting: Situated at Arley Studios, in Worcestershire, surrounded by the natural beauty of the River Severn, we offer an inspiring space where creativity can flourish.

Expert Instruction: Learn from accomplished artists who combine technical skill with a gift for teaching, creating an engaging and supportive atmosphere.

Art for All Levels: Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or honing your craft, we have workshops tailored to every skill level.

River

Meet the Academy Team

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Andrew
Hemming

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Sharon
Gibson

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Laura Jayne
Smith

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Jess
Pritchard

Jaime
Moore

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Sarah
Stokes

Forthcoming Art Workshops

Jaime Moore: Sun, Sloths & Feathers: A Playful Mixed Media Journey
Jaime Moore: Sun, Sloths & Feathers: A Playful Mixed Media Journey
Course Starts: 4th June 2025
6 Week Workshop: June & July 2025
Jess Pritchard:  Walking with Tigers
Jess Pritchard:  Walking with Tigers
3 Day Workshop: 16th-18th July 2025
Jaime Moore: Watercolour & Charcoal Puffin –  3 week Mixed Media workshop
Jaime Moore: Watercolour & Charcoal Puffin –  3 week Mixed Media workshop
Course Starts: 9th Sept 2025
3 Week Workshop: September 2025
Jess Pritchard: Wolf Coloured Pencil Workshop
Jess Pritchard: Wolf Coloured Pencil Workshop
5 Day Workshop: 10th-14th November 2025

Sarah Stokes: Watercolour Bird Workshop

5 Day Workshop: 19th-23rd
November 2026

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Sarah Stokes: Animal Kingdom Charcoal  Workshop

2 Day Workshop: 29th-30th November 2026

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Sarah Stokes: Animal Kingdom Charcoal  Workshop

2 Day Workshop: 6th-7th December 2026

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Host Your Next Art Workshop at Olive and Plum Studios  

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A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the English Countryside

Looking for the perfect setting to run your next art workshop or creative retreat? Let Olive
and Plum be your home from home. Nestled in the picture-perfect village of Upper Arley,
Worcestershire, our art studios offer an inspiring blend of comfort, professionalism, and
natural beauty that will captivate both you and your students.

What Makes Our Studios Special?
Set just a short stroll from the River Severn, our venue is surrounded by tranquil
countryside, teeming with swans, deer, birds, hares, and more. With fields dotted with
sheep and cows, and Arley Arboretum just a walk away, you’ll find endless inspiration at
every turn. Add in the nostalgic charm of the nearby Severn Valley Railway, and it’s no
surprise our village has featured in films and period dramas.​​

Our Facilities:

Three spacious, light-filled teaching studios with double and triple-aspect windows
On-site Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities, and a kitchen stocked with teas and coffee
Free parking directly outside
Studios equipped with palettes, brushes, jars – just bring paint and paper
A warm, professional atmosphere designed with artists in mind

We’re Not Just a Venue – We’re a Partner in Your Success
When you hire Olive and Plum, you gain more than just a beautiful space. We actively
support your workshop to help you fill places and deliver an unforgettable experience:

Studio Hire with Full Amenities – ready for creativity, with everything in place for you and
your guests

  • Website Promotion – your bio and workshop featured on our site

  • Marketing Support – including newsletter features and collaborative Instagram Lives

  • Booking Management – we’ll handle all the admin, payments, and T&Cs

  • Guest Support – we’ll help your students find local accommodation, travel options, and

       insider tips


With gorgeous places to stay either in Upper Arley itself or just a few minutes away in the
charming riverside town of Bewdley, your students will be immersed in beauty both inside
and out of the studio.


Ready to Teach in an Idyllic Setting?
Whether you’re a professional tutor or a practicing artist ready to host your first workshop,
Olive and Plum is the perfect place to bring your teaching to life.
Get in touch to discuss your ideal dates and find out how we can help you create an
unforgettable artistic experience.

Get in Touch

To find out more about organising an art workshop at our studio or any of our workshops, please email Sarah Stokes at sarah@oliveandplumretreats.com 

Arley Studio Location

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