Represented by Irina Rusinovich, CEO of Haze Gallery in Berlin, Germany
Email us at any time with your questions. We are happy to provide a timeline on what to expect and other guidance, all without obligation.
I’ll show you:
The Experience of a Lifetime
This is more than just a scenic tour of well-trodden sites. The retreat is an opportunity to go off the beaten path, learn how to see like an artist, and to create images that are unique to one’s view of the world – all while getting introduced to the history, culture, and cuisine of Ireland with new friends that share your passion for the arts.
Open to all camera types – especially smartphones!
Bring whatever camera you are most comfortable with. For most people nowadays, it’s going to be their smartphone, which has an ease of use and convenience that makes it ideal for all kinds of photography. Any brand (iPhone, Android, etc.) is fine. Dedicated cameras (point-and-shoots, mirrorless, etc.) are welcome as well as digital or film formats.
Open to all experience levels
The retreat is all about the art of seeing. So don’t worry about settings and other nerdy technical details. It’s about having fun being creative with your mind, while minimizing the technical know-how that often hinders creativity and gives your mind a headache. The only prerequisite is that you love photography, are eager to learn, and ready to have a good time.
A gentle learning environment
You’ll be encouraged in a positive and friendly learning environment to experiment and push your photography to a new level while getting a refresher or reinforcement of what you already know. Direction and respectful critiques will be available to hone in on challenges you want to overcome.
Personal attention
The retreat will feature illustrated in-class instruction followed by outings to apply what was learned. Xiomaro and his assistant will accompany the group to answer questions, to inspire, and to give further instruction and constructive feedback.
Learn museum-worthy principles
As it will be a 12-day retreat (two of those days will be travel days), there will be plenty of time to go deep into artistic principles and techniques with plenty of interesting subject matter to photograph.
You will learn Xiomaro’s methods for creating his images, which are seen in museums, television programs, and magazines. Check out his gallery below to see his work and to get a sense of Ireland’s many fascinating opportunities to photograph architecture, landscapes, colorful towns, historical and cultural sites, and the welcoming people of this ancient island nation.
Leave Ireland with your first exhibition credential
Attendees will have prints of their images exhibited at Esker Arts Centre in Tullamore. Take a peek at this new state-of-the-art visual, performance, and community arts facility.
It’s good for your soul
The retreat is an extension of the workshops Xiomaro has been teaching over the past seven years for the U.S. National Park Service and presenting at many community organizations. His workshops are often filled to capacity with waiting lists and have been covered by the news media.
So whether you are an amateur or a pro, the retreat is your chance to escape from life’s routine and demands – and “treat” yourself to a creative activity in a beautiful location that will stimulate your mind and restore your spirit.
Experience luxury and comfort at the Tullamore Court Hotel, located in the heart of Tullamore, Ireland, for easy access to all points during the retreat. The accommodations offer spacious rooms, modern amenities, complimentary breakfast every morning, and exceptional service. Enjoy the hotel’s on-site dining, fitness center, and spa, all designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Lodging is shared (two to three people total per room). Single rooms are available for an additional $350.00, subject to availability. You will only be charged the supplement if a single room can be confirmed.
It’s more than snapping pictures. It’s experiencing a unique art form with a select group who shares your passion. You’ll leave the workshop with exciting photos, a new way of seeing the world, and new friends.
Soon after, you’ll receive an invitation from Xiomaro for free membership to his online photography group where you can:
What past attendees say about Xiomaro’s teaching
Space is limited!
To ensure opportunities for constructive feedback, Q&A, and coaching on your photographs, registration spaces for the retreat are limited.
Register here:
We’ll get back to you with additional information. There will be several Zoom calls to meet, greet, and provide final instructions before we depart for Ireland.
Price includes:
*Single rooms are available for an additional $350.00, subject to availability. You will only be charged the supplement if a single room can be confirmed.
Unlock the secrets to affordable travel with our latest video, Flight Hacks: Score Amazing Deals to Ireland!, where we share insider money-saving tips and tricks for snagging the best flight deals, exploring hidden gems, and maximizing your travel budget without breaking the bank.
Xiomaro started using LensPen® products over 17 years ago. Their molecular carbon cleaning technology is the number one tool for removing fingerprints and smudges from high end optics. The company has been an active supporter of his workshops for the past 5 years. Visit LensPen.
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Creative Ventures and Xiomaro cannot be held responsible for loss, damage, or injury during the trip or retreat workshops.
The currency in Ireland is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Budget for meals and shopping at your discretion.
A valid passport is required for all travelers. No visa is currently required for U.S. citizens traveling to Ireland.
Email us at any time. We are happy to answer questions, provide a timeline on what to expect, and other guidance — all without obligation.
The photo retreat is presented by Creative Arts Retreats (DBA) & Vertikal Life Magazine L.L.C. Creative Arts Retreats (DBA), Vertikal Life Magazine L.L.C., Laurie Fagen, Xiomaro, and his assistants cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage, or injury during the retreat. Participants are advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Ensure all travel documents (passport, visa if required) are valid and up to date. By registering for this retreat, participants acknowledge these terms and conditions.
We look forward to a memorable and inspiring retreat with you!
All photographs are available for exhibition and purchase. Contact Xiomaro
Any image or text or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever – including any and all uses in connection with artificial intelligence technology – without my express written permission. Violators will, and have been, prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Xiomaro logo by Azul Burger. Photos of Xiomaro by Barbara Cittadino.