Portrait with the Masters
Four-Night Residential with the 2025 Portrait Artist of the Year Finalists 24th - 28th August 2026
We're thrilled to announce that all three finalists from Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 will be heading to Cober Hill in August 2026 for a four-night residential. Join us for an immersive four-night residential retreat at the picturesque Cober Hill, nestled in the serene North Yorkshire countryside, where you’ll hone your portraiture skills under the guidance of Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 winner Chloe Barns along with both 2025 finalists Katie Jones and Lauren Ross. This programme is designed for artists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, offering a blend of structured daytime workshops with each of our artists, optional evening sessions, and a culminating pop-up exhibition, feedback and critique session. You will check-in at Cober Hill from 3pm on Monday 24th August 2026, then join us for complimentary drinks from 5pm where you will meet your fellow participants and tutors. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday is all about mastering different approaches to capturing a portrait. You will spend a day with each of our guest tutors - Chloe, Lauren and Katie - with each delivering a unique portrait masterclass focused on a different medium. During this time, your tutors will share with you valuable tools and techniques to master your own portrait painting and drawing. On Friday after breakfast there will be an opportunity for you to share the work you have created during the week, exchange feedback and enjoy lunch before departing Cober Hill. The residential package includes your own en-suite room with full board including breakfast and evening meals alongside a daily buffet lunch. Complimentary refreshments including tea, coffee, and snacks are available throughout the day. Includes all materials and equipment needed to complete the daily workshops. There will also be free evening activities for you to join with a schedule advertised a few weeks before your arrival, or why not spend your downtime exploring the 11 acres of grounds at Cober Hill or venture further to the Cleveland way or Cinder Track walkways. Check-in from 3:00pm on Monday 24th August 2026 Check-out by 10:30am on Friday 28th August 2026
Cancellation Policy
Booking & Cancellation Policy Payment Options You can pay in full at the time of booking via card, Google Pay, Apple Pay or PayPal, or choose to pay a 25% deposit and pay the remaining balance 45 days before the event. Cash payment can be made in person at the school, shop or venue. Deposits A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place on Workshops, Courses and Residentials. This deposit is non-refundable in all circumstances. Balance Due If you pay by deposit, the remaining 75% balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the start date. We will send you a reminder email with a payment link. Cancellation Policy Residential Stays at Cober Hill More than 12 weeks before arrival: Full refund minus £50 admin fee per person. 6–12 weeks before: 75% refund. 4–6 weeks before: 50% refund. Less than 4 weeks before: No refund. We strongly recommend you take out travel/holiday insurance for residential stays.