The Trace of Things
An Immersive Art & Writing Retreat at Coopershill House, County Sligo
From 24th – 31st October 2026
Join artist Tracy Sweeney and writer Marian Garvey for a week of creative exploration in the remarkable setting of Coopershill House, a historic country estate on Ireland’s west coast.
Designed for artists, makers, writers and creative thinkers, this intimate retreat combines painting, mixed-media experimentation, field research, reflective writing and creative conversation. Participants will work within the house, gardens and surrounding Sligo landscape, drawing inspiration from place, memory, history and personal experience.
Dining Room at Coopershill House, Sligo
What The Week Will Include:
* Daily studio sessions with artist Tracy Sweeney
* Experimental mixed-media approaches and process-led practice
* Creative writing workshops with writer Marian Garvey
* Individual mentoring and group discussion
* Site visits and fieldwork in the Sligo landscape, and transport during organised activities
• One organised excursion day
* Time and space to develop personal work
• Tuition and creative sessions
• Art materials for shared use
* Full-board accommodation in the historic Coopershill House
* 7 nights accommodation
• A welcome drinks reception on arrival
• All meals and wine with dinner
Tracy Sweeney Artist, showing the creative process.
Who Is This Retreat Suitable For?
This retreat is suitable for artists at all stages of their practice who are interested in developing ideas through observation, experimentation and reflection. It is a limited retreat, only 8 participants. The retreat is suitable for those interested in reconnecting with creativity in a thoughtful and supportive environment.
Writer Marian Garvey, who will lead some writer’s workshops during the retreat.
A Week of Creative Exploration
The week will unfold as a balance of guided workshops, individual studio time, creative exploration and shared experiences.
Beginning with gathering ideas and inspiration from the Coopershill estate and the surrounding Sligo landscape, participants will be encouraged to explore Tracy’s process-led approach to painting, collage and mixed media.
A full-day excursion to some of the west coast’s most inspiring locations will provide opportunities for sketching, photography, observation and collecting visual material. Throughout the week, Tracy will lead demonstrations, practical exercises and one-to-one guidance, helping each participant develop their own work at their own pace.
Creative writer Marian Garvey will join the group for two days, offering optional writing sessions that explore memory, place and personal response to landscape.
The retreat will conclude with time to reflect on the week’s work, share ideas and celebrate the creative journey together.
Ben Bulben Mountain, Sligo.
The Location - Sligo and its surroundings
Located close to Yeats Country, Benbulben, the Atlantic coast and some of Ireland’s most significant archaeological and cultural sites, Coopershill provides a unique environment for sustained creative enquiry.
Lounge at Coopershill House, Sligo
Coopershill House - Accommodation for 7 days
Accommodation at Coopershill House, Sligo
Details:
Dates: 24–31 October 2026
Venue: Coopershill House, Riverstown, County Sligo, Ireland
Cost: £2,950 / €3400 per person (€500 deposit payable with link below)
Places: Limited to 8 participants
For further information please email retreat organiser Geraldine Benson Tucker at geraldine.benson@me.com