Simpsons Gap Sunset Watercolour Painting Class

Simpsons Gap Sunset: watercolour painting class

This afternoon excursion takes place just 18kms outside of Alice Springs at Simpsons Gap, a natural wonder that explodes with colour as the sun sets, making it is the perfect spot to paint with watercolours! In this workshop you will learn the basics of watercolour painting in a series of exercises designed to help you to loosen up and have fun.

Watch the rocky ridges of the West MacDonnell Ranges turn a deeper red as the sun sets, hear an orchestra of birds sing from the tops of the river red gum trees, tune into the peace of this special place which is an important spiritual site for Arrernte people.

AT A GLANCE

Travel to Simpsons Gap
Enjoy a beginner friendly watercolour painting class
Learn about Tyunpe/Simpsons Gap
All art materials provided
Tasty charcuterie platter
Transfers from Mparntwe/Alice Springs accommodation included
Maximum group size: 9

$175PP

ITINERARY

*The exact timings of this trip change throughout the year to sit with sunset times. The experience takes between 3-4 hours, and you can expect to be back in Alice Springs roughly 45 mins after sunset.

Pick up

We will drive from your accommodation in Alice Springs to Simpsons Gap, just 15 mins outside of town.

Simpsons Gap tour

We will walk roughly 1km into Simpsons Gap along an easy flat path, while learning a little bit about the landscape. Fun facts about the flora and fauna will deepen the meaning of the series of paintings you make, which you can take home to remind you of your special trip.

Watercolour painting class

You will be led through some basic watercolour techniques, using the surrounding landscape as inspiration for your paintings. All materials needed for the class are included. Enjoy watching the changing light from a spectacular location.

We have a number of painting set up options for you to choose from, including sitting in a camp chair, sitting on the ground on a picnic blanket, or standing at an easel.

Snack platter

We will enjoy a platter of snacks while finishing up our final paintings, as the last of the sunlight fades.

Drop off

We will head back to Alice Springs where you will be dropped off at your accommodation, just after dark.

Do I need to know how to paint?

NO. This class is suitable for absolute beginners, experienced artists who want to go back to basics, adults, families, single travellers – anyone. All you meed to bring is an open mind.

This class is all about loosing up, having fun, and looking at the environment differently.

Our classes are generally adult only, but we do accept bookings from families with grown up kids of any age.

How much walking is involved?

We will walk a short distance (>1km) down a graded path and find a spot to sit and paint in the river.

Will we see any wildlife??

Although we cant guarantee wildlife encounters, Simpsons Gap is home to a known population of rare rock wallabies, and it is quite likely we will see them. During the warmer months it is common to see lizards like bearded dragons, goannas, and perenties.

How will we travel to Simpsons Gap?

This tour includes hotel pick up and drop off in the Art Tours of Australia 4WD. The panoramic windows make for great sunset viewing on the drive home.

The drive takes 15-20 minutes.

Some people choose to drive themselves out to Simpsons Gap and meet us there – please let us know when you book if this is what you’d like to do and we can arrange a meeting point.

What to bring:

Please let us know about any dietary or medical concerns when booking. This tour is weather-dependant.