Stories: A Painted Family: Creativity, Chalk Paint and Community at Court House Farm
The Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Furniture Retreat at Court House Farm has become something of a tradition — a twice-yearly celebration of creativity, colour and connection. Each September and June, guests from across the world gather to paint, share ideas and experience a week of pure creative immersion in the comfort of Helen and Mick’s home- Court House Farm.
This autumn, we welcomed back Tristan — designer, maker and founder of Doghead Designs — who leads the retreat with his signature energy and fearless approach to colour. As brand ambassador for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, Tristan bridges the worlds of design and teaching, inspiring guests to see beyond technique and embrace bold, joyful creativity.
In this story, we talk with Tristan about what makes these retreats so special — and why they’ve grown into something much more than a workshop.
“It is an honour to be part of the Court House Farm family,” says Tristan. “As a local resident of Portishead, it’s even more special to bring people here — to share something so close to home that now connects us to a global creative community.”
The Chalk Paint Family — A Global Movement with a Somerset Heart
At the heart of this retreat lies Chalk Paint™, and the woman who created it — Annie Sloan. For over three decades, Annie has inspired a worldwide movement of painters, makers and dreamers who see potential in the overlooked and beauty in the everyday. Her warmth and genuine interest in the people who use her paint have built what she calls the “Chalk Paint family” — a creative community that spans continents and generations.
That sense of belonging is what guests feel most strongly at Court House Farm. Annie joins Tristan to teach, share her artistic philosophy and connect directly with participants — from first-time painters to professional upcyclers.
“Having Annie on the retreat is the icing on the cake,” says Tristan. “Guests get to know the person behind the paint — and she takes a genuine interest in everyone’s work. It’s so special, and in my opinion, completely unique.”
This September, Annie and Tristan also recorded a live episode of The Colourist Podcast from the sitting room, surrounded by guests as their audience — a moment that perfectly captured the warmth, humour and generosity of the Chalk Paint community.
Home Together — Creativity and Connection Under One Roof
What makes the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Furniture Retreat unforgettable isn’t just the creativity that fills the studio — it’s the sense of togetherness that unfolds throughout the stay.
From the moment guests arrive, they’re welcomed not into a venue but into a home. Mealtimes are a chance to gather, savour seasonal, delicious food, cooked by our retreat chef Kirstie and exchange stories — moments of laughter and reflection that turn strangers into friends.
“It feels like a family from the moment people arrive,” Tristan explains. “Eating together every day creates wonderful connections. There’s kindness, care, and even a bit of therapy in it all.”
Every corner of Court House Farm adds to the experience. The historic house, its gardens and Helen’s thoughtful details make it the perfect setting for creative exploration. “The house is perfect for retreats because it's full of creative inspiration,” says Tristan. “It’s warm and welcoming without being intimidating or hotel-like. It feels like a home… and a loved one at that.”
Paint, Passion and the Power of Connection
The partnership between Annie Sloan, Doghead Designs, and Court House Farm has become a beacon for creative connection — blending the warmth of Court House Farm hospitality with the artistry of a global movement.
Annie’s ethos — that creativity belongs to everyone — comes alive here. Each retreat is both a celebration of paint and a reminder of the power of shared experience. Guests leave not only with renewed skills, but with friendships and stories that last far longer than the week itself.
“Something happens with each group,” says Tristan. “Strong bonds are formed, and it’s an escape from normal life. The fact that people keep returning is the biggest compliment of all.”
The Journey So Far — Eight Retreats and Counting
This September marked the eighth Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Furniture Retreat at Court House Farm — a milestone that speaks to the growing creative family around it. Each gathering has its own rhythm and story, yet the feeling remains the same: warmth, generosity and shared passion.
As we look ahead to 2026, with new dates already planned for June and September, we’re reminded that creativity isn’t just about what we make — it’s about who we become when we make it together.
“We know we’ve created something incredibly powerful and special,” Tristan says. “Our testimonials speak for themselves — but really, you just have to experience it.”
Join the Family
If you’d like to be part of the next Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Furniture Retreat at Court House Farm register your interest here and we’ll be in touch..
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