Why the Algarve is a superb art holiday destination
The fabulous climate, gorgeous scenery and amazing beaches make the Algarve a favourite holiday destination. Golfers love the high-quality courses, cycling enthusiasts love the country roads and scenic routes, foodies swoon over the delicious and fresh produce. And artists? Well, artists find inspiration in the palette of colours and hues that are uniquely Algarve, in the textures, shapes and contrasts of the scenery, and in the endless ocean horizons. And to complement all this natural inspiration, there are excellent art holiday venues to enjoy too.

In the article below Cheryl Smith from Figs on the Funcho outlines just some of the inspiring scenes artists can enjoy discovering in the Algarve. Cheryl hosts regular art holidays at the tranquil riverside retreat that is Figs on the Funcho, considered one of the best art escapes in 2019. There, artists can enjoy expert art tuition, beautiful, natural surroundings for inspiration, and a unique open-air studio that sits beneath the carob trees.

• Find out more about Art Holidays at Figs on the Funcho

 Why take an art holiday in the Algarve
by Cheryl Smith, Figs on the Funcho

The Algarve region in Portugal is a stunning location for artists seeking inspiration and a chance to unleash their creativity. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, there are numerous opportunities to find inspiration and capture the beauty of the region.
 
The coast is justly famous for its stunning natural beauty. The unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters of the Algarve offer a never-ending array of colours, textures, and shapes for painters to explore. The rock formations at Ponta da Piedade – art by Mother Nature -  and the spectacular Benagil cave, accessible only by boat, are ideal subjects for plein-air painters seeking adventure to go with their art.
 
For those interested in capturing traditional Algarve life, opportunities abound.  The fishing huts and boats at Olhos d'Agua are a siren call. The brightly coloured boats and nets, along with the rustic charm of the huts, offer an ideal location to capture the essence of the region's maritime culture.
 
The Alte chimneys and Loulé market offer a fascinating subject for those interested in architecture. The intricate designs and patterns etched into the surface of the chimneys offer an opportunity for artists to experiment with texture and detail in their work, while the bustling atmosphere of Loulé market provides a wonderful opportunity to capture the energy and vibrancy of the region. There are beautiful old buildings that draw the eye in older town centres across the Algarve.


 
The Algarve countryside boasts a rich history and is filled with unique architectural treasures, including old stone walls, buildings, and ruins that are scattered throughout the region. Artists will also find inspiration in the old waterwheels – noras - which are distinctive to the area and offer interesting shapes and textures for painters to capture. In addition to the waterwheels, the native cork trees that dot the countryside are a fascinating subject, with their intricate patterns and textures, and the rich colours of the bark, providing endless possibilities for artists looking to capture the region's natural beauty and character.
 
Silves Moorish castle, located in the town of Silves, is a magnificent landmark that was once the capital of the Algarve during the Moorish occupation. The castle is a fine example of Moorish architecture and is a must-visit location for artists seeking to capture the region's rich cultural heritage. The castle's impressive walls, towers, and courtyards provide a wealth of inspiration for artists seeking to experiment with perspective, texture, and form. With its commanding views of the town and surrounding countryside, Silves Moorish castle is also an ideal location for plein-air painting and urban sketching.


 
For those who are fascinated by contemporary art, the Algarve has a variety of galleries that showcase both local and international artists. One gallery that is well worth a visit is Côrte Real in Paderne. This gallery specializes in contemporary art and features work by both Portuguese and international artists. Hidden away in a rural location, the gallery is charming and surprising.
 
For modern art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Faro is a must-see. The museum features a collection of works by both Portuguese and international artists and is housed in a striking modern building.
 
Exploring the region's art galleries is an excellent way to gain inspiration and new perspectives on your work. By viewing the work of other artists, you can gain insight into different techniques, styles, and mediums. Visiting galleries in the Algarve, such as Côrte Real, ArtCatto, and the Museum of Contemporary Art, can be an enriching and rewarding experience for artists looking to expand their creative horizons.
 
Last but not least, the Algarve boasts some of the most breathtaking sunsets that any artist should experience. With numerous vantage points available, capturing the stunning display of colors is an absolute must. Figs on the Funcho, a peaceful painting holiday venue,  offers a perfect panoramic view of the sky, hills, and a bridge that spans over the river, making it a popular location for artists to capture the beauty of the sunset. What makes Figs on the Funcho a standout destination is its focus on plein air and mixed media painting holidays. The 360-degree view of the stunning natural scenery of the Algarve makes it challenging for artists to choose a single view to paint, providing an ideal location to challenge and develop their skills.
 
Overall, the Algarve region offers countless locations where artists can enjoy urban sketching and plein-air painting, from the historic and cultural landmarks of Silves Moorish castle and Tavira Castle, to the rolling hills and countryside, and the stunning coastline. The region provides a wealth of inspiring locations for artists seeking to capture the essence of the Algarve, while honing their creative skills, making it a must-visit destination for any artist.

Figs on the Funcho is a tranquil riverside escape, perfect for art holidays as well as walking holidays and retreats.

• Find out more about Figs on the Funcho
• Find out more about Art Holidays at Figs on the Funcho
• Find out about Algarve Walking Holidays at Figs on the Funcho