Odisha 2020

It’s been a while since returning with a group of creatives to Mother India – let’s begin afresh with open hearts and minds. This tour is a SLOW PACE humble village sketchbook tour – more like an Art camp. Connecting deeply to the earth and the simplicity of village life, we will be based primarily in 3 locations and from here make day trips to inspire your art making. This program has the usual flourishes – off track to remote places requiring 4 Wheel Drives.

Due to the remote locations, a level of fitness is required as we will be walking into villages rather than take a vehicle.

Accommodation ranges from basic to lush. Due to the remoteness, your level of comfort may vary. A good temperament is required as we accept the conditions to visit these less touristed locations…in Desia Kond high in the mountains, we utilise a bush camp that has adobe huts and well equipped tents…..we think it’s beautiful and there are no other hotels available….are you able to go with the flow?

If so, embrace the opportunity to visit traditional artisans from potters to weavers and sacred temples in this very special part of India known as ‘the soul of India’

SKETCHBOOK INDIA
October 23 – November 5
2023

”To other countries, I may go as a tourist, but to India, I come as a pilgrim’’ Martin Luther Jr”

Happy new year friends! 

It’s easy to get caught up in the doing but take a moment to reflect on the last few years and the things that give you joy and inspiration.

Creativity, travel and teaching are my greatest passions and apart from Australia, the magnificent country that I call home, India is my next greatest love and spiritual abode

Combining these 3 passions is my perfect trifecta! So I welcome you to join me on the next 
SKETCHBOOK INDIA to Odisha, known as the ‘Soul of India’

This is slow pace village India with a sprinkling of city visits and mostly ‘off the beaten track’ adventures 

{ can it be slow pace and still adventurous!? – yes it can be and we feel the balance is wonderful } in 4 wheel drive vehicles for max immersion in nature and rural settings

Spend time with traditional artisans from weavers to potters in small villages, along with daily art making in your sketchbook, combined with guided tuition and plenty of time for independent making

Fully supported with local, well experienced and respected guide and long time friend on many adventures and research trips within Odisha

Places limited to a max of 10 to nourish the spirit

Costs: 
$3790 pp based on twin share; private room/single supplement: $790

  • Tour includes: accommodation ranges from basic – plush in comfortable hotels including 4 nights in a sprawling palace hidden amongst spacious gardens, 4 nights in our unique community based adobe lodge/tents in the hill district of Desia; all breakfasts, most lunches + dinners;
  • Local transport in AC 4 W Drive
  • A well respected and awesome local guide will accompany us for the entire tour
  • visits to artisan families, art tuition, Love, joy + inspiration! 

Exclusions: international airfares + local tipping
Local tipping: $130 to be paid at commencement of tour in India
Kitty contribution tbc

Please email me for itinerary at: catherineparkerarttours@gmail.com 
Artist website: www.catherineparkerartist.com

I look forward to hearing from you
Namaste,
Catherine X

Testimonials

Catherine’s deep love for Indian art culture engaged and united the group. Her care and consideration for each individual and tailoring to accommodate differences made this a very special and rewarding experience for all participants whether as a first time or experienced traveller.
Kay Hann, Australia


I consider myself lucky to respond to the original email about your trip. I saw something of the ‘magic’ in you and I wanted to be part of what I thought would be a ‘carpet ride’ across some very interesting territory. Thank you Catherine. Your very deep experiences in India with both the people and the landscape enabled me to just ‘step’ onto that ‘carpet’ and blast off on one of the best experiences in my life. Tony and I both are indebted to you and Kamlesh for all you did for us. We are now set to make plans for our next trip
Betsy Forster, Australia

My experience with Catherine Parkers Art Tour of India was more than I could imagine, an adventure of a lifetime. She is so experienced and in tune with the energy that is India, that we were all able to benefit from her deep research and love of the country and people. Every day was joy filled, educational and inspiring. We stayed in beautiful heart felt lodgings where the owners knew Catherine and welcomed us in comfort and safety. I am planning to return as soon as possible, for another magical tour with Catherine.
Karen Meadows, California US

Please contact me if you would like to be placed on the waiting list

STAY TUNED!!
x Catherine x