Stories: Our Creative Tutor Jacqui Mair tells us more
Meet the Artist: An Interview with Jacqui Mair
Collage, Curiosity, and Creative Retreats at Court House Farm
At Court House Farm, we’re honoured to welcome Jacqui Mair as a creative tutor for a joyful and richly textured creative retreat
Jacqui is a collage artist, textile designer, and illustrator whose vibrant, layered work has been exhibited across the UK and Europe, and featured in books, galleries, and design collections. Her creative career spans over four decades, including many years teaching on the prestigious Illustration course at the University of Brighton. Known for her expressive use of colour, bold floral motifs, and love of ephemera, Jacqui brings not only technical expertise but a deep, playful curiosity to everything she does.
Her workshops are joyful, generous, and full of possibility – a space to explore, experiment, and reconnect with what makes your creative self tick.
We sat down with Jacqui to find out more about her artistic philosophy and what guests can expect during their time with her.
Jacqui, what will guests experience creatively during their time with you?
"I try and inspire everyone not to lose the art of curiosity – the art of the unexpected. If you don’t poke around, keep uncovering what might excite you, and learn from others, then life is not as rich. I hope my enthusiasm for sharing knowledge will pass on to guests – and that they leave with a greater sensitivity to what collage can be for them. Whether it’s a sheaf of hand-printed papers, an artist’s book, or a suite of collages, they will find their own path."
What do you hope people will take away from the retreat – artistically or personally?
"There is always such excitement in the making. But so often, in one-day workshops, I’ve wished we had more time. At Court House Farm, we do – and that gives guests the chance to really develop something special. I’ve seen people who don’t consider themselves 'artistic' go home with pieces that hold unique beauty. To witness their wonderment is always a delight."
How would you describe your own artistic philosophy?
"I never want people to just copy what I do. I like to act as a conduit – opening up new ways of seeing and creating. My personal ethos is driven by a restless curiosity and a magpie instinct. I enjoy the 'what if', the permission to get lost, to transform, to layer, to reimagine. I hope that sense of freedom comes through in my teaching."
What draws you to Court House Farm as the setting for your retreat?
"It has flowers! An excellent chef! And the environment oozes the calm and beauty we might all enjoy together. It’s a space that supports creativity at every level – for total beginners or seasoned makers. You feel completely looked after, surrounded by others who share your interests, with no pressure or expectations."
What are you most excited about personally as the retreat approaches?
"The chance to be with people for longer than a day! To share ideas, to guide everyone through the creative possibilities of collage, and to help them go home knowing how to make their own papers, books and artworks. That brings me such pleasure."
What would you say to someone who’s on the fence about coming?
"Look at what’s included and break it down: a sumptuous hotel room with full board, all materials provided, in a beautiful location – plus a workshop with a tutor who has 40 years’ experience and still LOVES teaching. It’s a highly enriching opportunity to learn new skills, make memories, and form friendships that will last a lifetime."
testimonial
“I am yet to encounter an artist who brings more to her teaching practice. Jacqui is a good and empathetic communicator with a collegiate outlook. She immerses herself in whatever artistic ‘community’ she finds herself.”
— Rebecca Crow, Director of Jackhouse Gallery, Portsmouth
Next retreat with Jacqui
Retreat Details 2025: Floral Features and Beyond
4–7 September 2025 | Court House Farm, Somerset
A three-night creative retreat with Jacqui Mair exploring collage, surface design, artist books, and printed papers. Set in a rustic studio (a converted cow shed) surrounded by beautiful, rustic cottage gardens and Somerset skies.
Includes:
Accommodation in a beautifully restored historic manor
Delicious, seasonal meals by our in-house chef
All Tuition, studio space in our cow-shed art studio surrounded by gardens
Time to create, connect, and unwind