Jock Young

Jock Young, an en plein air artist, has a deep-rooted passion for capturing the beauty of nature through his artwork. Growing up in northern Sydney and later settling in Tasmania, Jock's artistic journey has been shaped by his surroundings. From the vibrant beaches of northern Sydney to the diverse landscapes of Tasmania, Jock has found inspiration in the natural world. 

As a teenager, Jock began exploring his artistic talents by spending time in the outdoors. These experiences, coupled with his studies in marine biology, instilled in him a curiosity and appreciation for the intricate connections between the environment and art. Jock's paintings reflect his deep connection with nature and his desire to capture the essence of each landscape. Through his en plein air technique, he brings a sense of immediacy and authenticity to his work, capturing the play of light, colors, and textures that make each scene unique.

Join Jock on an artistic journey as he shares his knowledge and passion for en plein air painting. In partnership with the insights of our naturalist guides, you'll have the opportunity to explore and appreciate majestic landscapes. Discover the joy of capturing the natural world on canvas and engage in meaningful conversations about the art of painting.

Jock's work can be discovered by video here or on Instagram. Please find a link to his latest exhibition here and the exhibition video here.

Handmark Gallery

Our lodges, huts and offices feature the work of Handmark's artists. Allanah Dopson and her team are found in Salamanca, Hobart. 

Allanah was quick to recommend Jock to lead an art retreat. "The outdoors is his canvas. He is humble and draws us beautifully into his habitat to share his love of the landscape. His background as a marine biologist and en plein air painter make him the perfect leader. To have a group painting and celebrating together on the Larapinta, a place of vibrant colour, will be wonderful.'

Day 1: Simpsons Gap & Ellery Creek

Distance: Approximately 7 hours walking and painting | 4km 

After a briefing in Alice Springs on the first morning, we head out towards the red ridges of Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges. Our first destination is Simpsons Gap for a Welcome to Country. Our guides will then take you to Simpsons Gap for a walking and painting session.

After a visit to the peaceful narrow gorges, it's time to go to Ellery Creek for a cooling swim and another painting session. 

Our private and exclusive campsite awaits your arrival. It is home for the next four nights.  Each evening you have the chance to settle in, rest and refresh before sundowners. During the beautiful sunset light, as dinner is prepared, artists and Jock will engage in a range of exercises or conversations tailored to the interests of the group. Dinner follows — a delicious three courses.

After the evening briefing, the skies light up with millions of stars.

The workshop begins with a briefing in Alice Springs, followed by a journey towards the red ridges of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges. The first destination is Simpsons Gap, where a Welcome to Country awaits. Afterward, you'll have a walk and painting session in this picturesque location.

Next on the itinerary is a visit to the serene narrow gorges of Ellery Creek. Here, you'll have the opportunity to cool off with a swim and engage in another painting session, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

Your private and exclusive campsite, which will be your home for the next four nights, awaits your arrival. After settling in, you can take time to rest and refresh before enjoying sundowners. During the beautiful sunset light, dinner will be prepared, and Jock and the artists will engage in various exercises and conversations tailored to the group's interests. A delicious three-course dinner will follow, providing a delightful culinary experience.

In the evening, after the briefing, you'll be treated to a spectacular display as the skies light up with millions of stars. This awe-inspiring sight will serve as a backdrop for inspiration and reflection, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for your artistic journey.

Day 3: Eagles Landing to top of the Tjoritja / West McDonnell Ranges

Approximately 7 hours walking and painting | 7km

Over the next two days, we will embark on gently paced walks, starting early in the morning. These walks will lead us to magnificent viewpoints, where we can soak in the stunning vistas before descending for our daily painting sessions.

Today's walk begins with an early 4am start and a light breakfast, giving us the opportunity to ascend the Tjoritja/West McDonnell Ranges and witness the early morning light and the vibrant colors of the sunrise. The first hour of walking takes place in the pre-dawn, allowing you to witness the gradual awakening of the landscape without the need to carry your easel. As you navigate the trail, you'll encounter a steady climb to Eagle's Landing. Once you reach this vantage point, take a moment to set up and savor a cup of tea or coffee. This is the perfect time to engage in sketching, capturing the tranquil and captivating beauty of the moment.

After the sunrise, there is an optional walk to the top of the Tjoritja/West McDonnell Ranges. From this vantage point, you can admire the stunning panorama stretching across to the Chewings Range and into a dramatic indented valley. 

After the walk, we make our way back and select a shady spot to set up our easels. Here, we can enjoy a restful picnic lunch, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the area. The mid-afternoon heat presents the perfect opportunity to take a break and recharge at our camp. It's a time to relax, rejuvenate, and prepare for the next artistic endeavors that await us.

We bring along sundowners and pre-dinner nibbles for a sunset expedition. Glen Helen Gorge, one of our favorite places, offers a beautiful setting for swimming, painting, and enjoying the gentle evening light. Afterward, we have a short transfer back to camp, where our talented guides have prepared another satisfying feast for us to enjoy and refuel. It's a time to relax, share stories, and appreciate the camaraderie of the group as we reflect on another day's artistic experiences in nature.

Day 5: Ochre Pits, Standley Chasm & Araluen Art Centre 

Approximately 4 hours walking and painting | 2.5km

On the final day, we begin by driving a short distance from our campsite to the Ochre Pits, an Aboriginal quarry, where we embark on a brief walk. Afterward, there is time for one last swim at Ellery Creek.

Next, we time our drive to arrive at Standley Chasm when the sun is high above, illuminating the landscape with vibrant colors. Here, we once again have the opportunity to appreciate the stunning scenery, the rich cultural heritage of the Arrernte people, and the majesty of the Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges.

After this enjoyable break, we make our way back to Alice Springs, arriving around 3pm. Our final stop is the Araluen Art Centre, where we can admire landscape paintings by renowned artist Albert Namatjira. It serves as an inspiring conclusion to our incredible five-day journey.

To wrap up the trip, we provide a hotel drop-off, marking the end of our memorable adventure exploring the stunning landscapes and immersing ourselves in the art and culture of the Red Centre.