Your Outback Art Journey is Calling...

Choose from relaxing weekend workshops or full 5-day retreats — both designed to awaken your creative spirit.

CHECK OUT UP COMING WORKSHOPS AND RETREATS BELOW

Your Outback Art Journey is Calling...

CHECK OUT UP COMING WORKSHOPS AND RETREATS BELOW

Christine G. - Retreat Participant

All facilities are very clean comfortable with room to share dining, catering was excellent. Thoroughly tours we did-recommended all.

"All facilities are very clean comfortable with room to share dining, catering was excellent. Thoroughly tours we did-recommended all."

-- Christine G. - Retreat Participant

Not sure which experience is right for you?

Outback Art Retreats VS. Creative Weekend Workshops

Whether you’re dreaming of a full creative escape or just looking to dip your toes into something new, we have something for every kind of artist.

Here’s a quick look at the two types of events we offer in 2025:

Retreats – The Full Experience

5 days of hands-on tutoring, relaxing moments, and Outback adventures

Stay in charming onsite accommodation

All meals, drinks, tours, and most materials included

Slow down, recharge, and connect deeply with yourself and others

Perfect for travelers who want a premium creative getaway

Workshops – A Quick Creative Recharge

✅ 1 or 2-day artist-led sessions

✅ Ideal for locals or weekend travelers

✅ Accommodation and meals not included

✅ Materials cost extra

✅ For QLD residents only

Not sure which experience is right for you?

Outback Art Retreats VS. Creative Weekend Workshops

Whether you’re dreaming of a full creative escape or just looking to dip your toes into something new, we have something for every kind of artist.

Here’s a quick look at the two types of events we offer in 2025:

Retreats – The Full Experience

✅ 5 days of hands-on tutoring, relaxing moments, and Outback adventures

✅ Stay in charming onsite accommodation

✅ All meals, drinks, tours, and most materials included

✅ Slow down, recharge, and connect deeply with yourself and others

✅ Perfect for travelers who want a premium creative getaway

Workshops – A Quick Creative Recharge

✅ 1 or 2-day artist-led sessions

✅ Ideal for locals or weekend travelers

✅ Accommodation and meals not included

✅ Materials cost extra

✅ For QLD residents only

2025 WORKSHOPS

May 3rd and 4th

Ultimate 2-Day Oil Painting Workshop with Catherine Clark Dowden

2 Full Days of Hands-On Artistic Mentorship (Value: $297)

Join award-winning artist Catherine Clark Dowden. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned painter, you’ll receive expert guidance to bring your animal portrait to life on canvas.

Paint a Stunning Blue Cattle Dog (Or Your Own Pet!) (Value: $97)

Get step-by-step support as you recreate Catherine’s iconic blue cattle dog — or bring your own beloved animal photo (already sketched on canvas) and make it your masterpiece!

Access to Premium Art Supplies (Value: $125)

No need to run around finding supplies. Your materials pack includes a canvas, high-quality paints, and brushes—everything you need to create a stunning masterpiece.

Creative Community + Unforgettable Memories (Value: Priceless) Spend two inspiring days surrounded by fellow creatives who share your love for animals and art. You’ll leave with new friends, fresh skills, and a heart full of joy.

(Valued at $497 - Yours for only $50 per day + $125 for materials!)

July 17th and 18th

4 x Half-Day Glass Art Workshops With Michele Hollister

4 Half-Day Creative Workshops (Value: $200)

With step-by-step guidance from Michele, you’ll leave each session with your own handmade glass artwork!

Expert Instruction from Michele Hollister (Value: $150)

A passionate and experienced glass artist, Michele will walk you through every step of the process so even complete beginners feel confident.

All Tools & Materials Provided Each Session (Materials cost: $100)

No stress about bringing anything extra! We supply the glass, foil, and everything you need to create stunning pieces.

Relaxed, Inspiring Environment (Value: Priceless)

Hosted in the heart of the Outback at the Living Arts Centre, you’ll be surrounded by creativity, connection, and the beauty of regional Queensland.

BONUS: Take Home 4 Unique Handcrafted Pieces (Value: $100)

You’ll walk away with beautiful glass artworks, made by you.

(Valued at $550- Yours for only $25 per class + $25 materials per session

July 17th and 18th

2 x 1-Day Wedgetail Winds Wire Art Workshops with Sculpture Artist Jobella Bennett

2 x 1-Day Hands-On Sculpture Workshops (Valued at $300)

Create your own original wire artworks with Jobella’s step-by-step guidance. You’ll walk away with a finished sculpture and a whole new set of skills.

All Materials + Tools Provided (Valued at $90)

We’ll have everything ready for you, wire, tools, and workspace setup. All you need to bring is a long sleeve shirt, your curiosity, and your creative spark.

Creative Community & Artist Support (Valued at $150)

Enjoy a welcoming space where creativity flows and questions are encouraged. You’ll get personal feedback and support every step of the way.

(Valued at $540 - Yours for only $50 per day + $45 materials per day

July 26th and 27th

Jamb Hats Creative Workshop with Jo Barr

Create Your Own Handmade Felt Hat (Value: $120)

Craft a unique felt hat from scratch with Jo’s expert guidance, a timeless piece you’ll actually wear or proudly gift.

Design and Make a Flower Broach (Value: $45)

Add a statement to any outfit with a handcrafted broach, elegant, original, and totally “you.”

Whimsical Angel Hanging Decoration (Value: $40)

A charming, handmade piece for your home or studio, perfect as a meaningful gift or keepsake.

2 Full Days of Creative Tuition with Artist Jo Barr (Value: $300)

Tap into Jo’s decades of artistic knowledge in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Learn, create, and be inspired.

All Tools & Quality Materials Provided (Value: $110)

No need to bring anything extra, your materials kit includes everything you’ll need, hand-selected for quality and ease.

Creative Community & Connection (Value: Priceless)

Meet other like-minded makers, laugh, learn, and walk away with more than just your creations.

That’s over $600 in total value - Yours for only $50 per day for the workshop + $55 per day for materials

August 2nd - 3rd

2-Day Textile to Tote Workshop with Stephanie Allen

2 Full Days of Expert Tutoring (Value: $300)

Learn unique fabric layering techniques, creative stitching, and textile design secrets from one of Australia’s top textile artists.

Your Own Materials Kit (Value: $45 – INCLUDED at cost)

All the fabrics, threads, and specialty items you need to bring your artwork to life (you’ll just need to bring your own sewing machine).

Creative Community Access (Value: Priceless)

Surround yourself with fellow creatives, share ideas, get inspired, and walk away with new friendships and art you'll cherish.

Project Outcome: A Custom Art Tote or Bag (Value: $100+)

Not just a project, a functional piece of art you’ll be proud to carry or gift.

Total Value: $445 - You pay only $95 per day— that’s a savings of over $350!

2025 WORKSHOPS

May 3rd and 4th

Ultimate 2-Day Oil Painting Workshop with Catherine Clark Dowden

2 Full Days of Hands-On Artistic Mentorship (Value: $297)

Join award-winning artist Catherine Clark Dowden. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned painter, you’ll receive expert guidance to bring your animal portrait to life on canvas.

Paint a Stunning Blue Cattle Dog (Or Your Own Pet!) (Value: $97)

Get step-by-step support as you recreate Catherine’s iconic blue cattle dog — or bring your own beloved animal photo (already sketched on canvas) and make it your masterpiece!

Access to Premium Art Supplies (Value: $125)

No need to run around finding supplies. Your materials pack includes a canvas, high-quality paints, and brushes—everything you need to create a stunning masterpiece.

Creative Community + Unforgettable Memories (Value: Priceless) Spend two inspiring days surrounded by fellow creatives who share your love for animals and art. You’ll leave with new friends, fresh skills, and a heart full of joy.

(Valued at $497 - Yours for only $50 per day + $125 for materials!)

July 17th and 18th

4 x Half-Day Glass Art Workshops With Michele Hollister

4 Half-Day Creative Workshops (Value: $200)

With step-by-step guidance from Michele, you’ll leave each session with your own handmade glass artwork!

Expert Instruction from Michele Hollister (Value: $150)

A passionate and experienced glass artist, Michele will walk you through every step of the process so even complete beginners feel confident.

All Tools & Materials Provided Each Session (Materials cost: $100)

No stress about bringing anything extra! We supply the glass, foil, and everything you need to create stunning pieces.

Relaxed, Inspiring Environment (Value: Priceless)

Hosted in the heart of the Outback at the Living Arts Centre, you’ll be surrounded by creativity, connection, and the beauty of regional Queensland.

BONUS: Take Home 4 Unique Handcrafted Pieces (Value: $100)

You’ll walk away with beautiful glass artworks, made by you.

(Valued at $550- Yours for only $25 per class + $25 materials per session

July 17th and 18th

2 x 1-Day Wedgetail Winds Wire Art Workshops with Sculpture Artist Jobella Bennett

2 x 1-Day Hands-On Sculpture Workshops (Valued at $300)

Create your own original wire artworks with Jobella’s step-by-step guidance. You’ll walk away with a finished sculpture and a whole new set of skills.

All Materials + Tools Provided (Valued at $90)

We’ll have everything ready for you, wire, tools, and workspace setup. All you need to bring is a long sleeve shirt, your curiosity, and your creative spark.

Creative Community & Artist Support (Valued at $150)

Enjoy a welcoming space where creativity flows and questions are encouraged. You’ll get personal feedback and support every step of the way.

(Valued at $540 - Yours for only $50 per day + $45 materials per day

July 26th and 27th

Jamb Hats Creative Workshop with Jo Barr

Create Your Own Handmade Felt Hat (Value: $120)

Craft a unique felt hat from scratch with Jo’s expert guidance, a timeless piece you’ll actually wear or proudly gift.

Design and Make a Flower Broach (Value: $45)

Add a statement to any outfit with a handcrafted broach, elegant, original, and totally “you.”

Whimsical Angel Hanging Decoration (Value: $40)

A charming, handmade piece for your home or studio, perfect as a meaningful gift or keepsake.

2 Full Days of Creative Tuition with Artist Jo Barr (Value: $300)

Tap into Jo’s decades of artistic knowledge in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Learn, create, and be inspired.

All Tools & Quality Materials Provided (Value: $110)

No need to bring anything extra, your materials kit includes everything you’ll need, hand-selected for quality and ease.

Creative Community & Connection (Value: Priceless)

Meet other like-minded makers, laugh, learn, and walk away with more than just your creations.

That’s over $600 in total value - Yours for only $50 per day for the workshop + $55 per day for materials

August 2nd - 3rd

2-Day Textile to Tote Workshop with Stephanie Allen

2 Full Days of Expert Tutoring (Value: $300)

Learn unique fabric layering techniques, creative stitching, and textile design secrets from one of Australia’s top textile artists.

Your Own Materials Kit (Value: $45 – INCLUDED at cost)

All the fabrics, threads, and specialty items you need to bring your artwork to life (you’ll just need to bring your own sewing machine).

Creative Community Access (Value: Priceless)

Surround yourself with fellow creatives, share ideas, get inspired, and walk away with new friendships and art you'll cherish.

Project Outcome: A Custom Art Tote or Bag (Value: $100+)

Not just a project, a functional piece of art you’ll be proud to carry or gift.

Total Value: $445 - You pay only $95 per day— that’s a savings of over $350!

Love Notes...

A very pleasant homely building. The retreat was just fabulous and i have joined the LAC I will be back.

Jan C.

Retreat Participant

Blackall is one of the friendliest towns I have visited so many passionate locals, I would highly recommend the town, the facilities- so much going on all the time.

Catherine D.

Artist

I had the best time, good food, wonderful people, learn heaps.

Kim K.

Retreat Participant

2025 RETREAT

5-Day All-Inclusive Textile & Fabric Art Retreat with Stephanie Allen

Spend 5 days in the peaceful Queensland Outback with textile artist Stephanie Allen, where it’s all about slowing down, making beautiful art, and filling your cup again.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned maker, this retreat is designed to help you unwind, grow your skills, and walk away with your own beautiful, layered textile artworks, all while enjoying great food, local experiences, and plenty of laughter.

5 Nights of Comfortable Onsite Accommodation

Stay in beautiful, peaceful surrounds right near the creative action. Enjoy restful nights in charming outback accommodations.

5 Days of In-Depth Textile & Fabric Art Mastery

Learn directly from renowned Australian textile artist Stephanie Allen, as she guides you through creating fabric from dyed wool roving and fibres, intricate lacework, layering techniques with organza and tulle, satin and foil accents, and building your very own layered masterpiece.

BONUS: Access to Sewing Machine Hire (If Needed)

Don't have a sewing machine? No worries, hire one onsite and keep stitching with ease.

All Meals Provided

Enjoy nourishing, chef-prepared meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), including select drinks, to fuel your creativity.

Local Outings & Cultural Activities

Get inspired by the outback’s beauty, included are fun, guided activities and local experiences to refresh and connect with fellow creatives.

All-Inclusive Art Materials Kit

No need to stress about supplies, your kit includes everything you’ll need to complete your projects. Just bring yourself and your creativity!

2025 RETREAT

5-Day All-Inclusive Textile & Fabric Art Retreat with Stephanie Allen

Spend 5 days in the peaceful Queensland Outback with textile artist Stephanie Allen, where it’s all about slowing down, making beautiful art, and filling your cup again.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned maker, this retreat is designed to help you unwind, grow your skills, and walk away with your own beautiful, layered textile artworks, all while enjoying great food, local experiences, and plenty of laughter.

5 Nights of Comfortable Onsite Accommodation

Stay in beautiful, peaceful surrounds right near the creative action. Enjoy restful nights in charming outback accommodations.

5 Days of In-Depth Textile & Fabric Art Mastery

Learn directly from renowned Australian textile artist Stephanie Allen, as she guides you through creating fabric from dyed wool roving and fibres, intricate lacework, layering techniques with organza and tulle, satin and foil accents, and building your very own layered masterpiece.

BONUS: Access to Sewing Machine Hire (If Needed)

Don't have a sewing machine? No worries, hire one onsite and keep stitching with ease.

All Meals Provided

Enjoy nourishing, chef-prepared meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), including select drinks, to fuel your creativity.

Local Outings & Cultural Activities

Get inspired by the outback’s beauty, included are fun, guided activities and local experiences to refresh and connect with fellow creatives.

All-Inclusive Art Materials Kit

No need to stress about supplies, your kit includes everything you’ll need to complete your projects. Just bring yourself and your creativity!

Not sure if this is for you? Get the Info Packet here.

Blackall Cultural Association © 2025. All Rights Reserved


Contact Us: projectoffice@blackallcultural.org.au