Come experience a 7-night, 6-day experience of art, architecture, and transformation in Mulranny, September 22 - 29, 2026.
Awaken Your Creative Soul in Ireland
Step into the elemental textures of Ireland. Create with your hands, walk among ancient stones, and return home with a portfolio of surface designs - a renewed rhythm for your art and life.
Reserve Your Spot today with a $500 Deposit
“I didn’t just learn finishes — I rediscovered my creative spirit.”
Where textures whisper, the Atlantic roars, and art lives in the walls. - Sandra Gonzalez
Create. Explore. Transform.
There comes a time when you grow beyond the classroom - to create something that lasts.
You’re invited to escape to the Wild Atlantic Way for a once in a lifetime experience. Join us in September 2026 for an immersive 7-night, 6-day retreat to reignite your creativity and return to the artist you were always meant to be. We have been honored to transform the Mulranny Arts Center in breathtaking Mulranny, Ireland, where the Atlantic meets the land in a symphony of stone, wind, and light. Together with Sandra Gonzalez and Audra Lynch – 2 seasoned artists and instructors, you’ll dive deep into the world of architectural surface finishes—from decorative plaster finishes to modern artistry—learning hands-on techniques and designs that are as timeless as the soulful rhythm of Irish sea.
This is more than a class—it’s a journey. A slowing down. A remembering.
About The Retreat
A Creative Residency in One of Ireland’s Most Inspiring Coastal Villages
This is a 7-night, 6-day retreat in beautiful Mulranny Ireland. It is not just a vacation, it is a chance to leave your heart and hands on the surfaces of a newly created Mulranny Arts Center. Tucked along the Wild Atlantic Way, Mulranny is a place where raw nature and rugged design meet. Over 6 transformative days, you’ll learn traditional and contemporary surface finish techniques—lime plaster, mineral pigments, micro-cements, layered textures—while surrounded by the ocean air, and kindred spirits.
You’ll learn architectural surface finishes through hands-on instruction, create your own personal sample collection, and contribute to the real-time beautification of the newly built Mulranny Arts Center #2 = The MAC. Our curriculum blends skill-building, creative experimentation, cultural exploration, and rest.
Come just to create—come to remember who you are when you are surrounded with beauty and art.
Laugh, Breathe, Create and Rejuvenate.
Fall in love with your life and art all over again.
Why You Belong With Us
This retreat is ideal for:
Aspiring artist, emerging artists and established artist
Decorative finishers, painters, and plasterers
Interior designers looking to expand their skillset
Artists exploring the architectural canvas
Creatives craving inspiration and hands-on learning + soul renewal
Anyone longing to remember the joy of slow, meaningful creation
Anyone feeling stuck in creativity, self-doubt and perfectionism
Whether you're a design professional, decorative artist, or passionate creative, you’ll leave with new techniques, personal breakthroughs, and a fresh sense of creative direction.
Come with a love of learning, creating, and exploring.
What if I am not skilled enough? We will guide you step-by-step.
What if I don’t know anyone? You will leave with multiple friendships within the first few days.
You don’t need to be an expert—just come as you are. This is your time. Say “YES” to the artist calling from inside of you.
What You Will Learn
Architectural Surface Finishes and the Stories They Tell.
This is a full-scope learning experience, blending fine surface design with real-world application and natural inspiration.
You’ll:
Portfolio: Create 12 large-format sample boards (16x20")
Practical Knowledge of multiple finishes
Real application – contribute to the architectural surface – your touch will become part of its story - architectural finishes to the newly built Mulranny Arts Center #2 – The MAC
Learn master level instruction & lime-based plasters & techniques, micro-cement and floor staining applications
Hands on learning with plenty of room to grow
The confidence to create and apply finishes personally and professionally
Each day will include studio time, demos, guided work sessions and critiques. You’ll walk away with a collection of professional samples, real-world application knowledge, and a creative portfolio inspired by the land and legacy of Ireland.
You won’t just remember your journey to Ireland, you’ll remember what you felt like being fully alive.
Dates & Details
Dates: September 2026 (September 22-29, 2026)
Location: Mulranny, County Mayo, Ireland
Group Size: 6 -12 participants
Registration Now Open - Closes August 31, 2026
$500 Deposit Secures Your Spot
Deposit & Payment Schedule
A $500 deposit is required to secure your place. This deposit is non-refundable and covers initial expenses, ensuring your spot is reserved.
The remaining balance will be divided into two payments, with invoices sent 30 days before each due date:
The first payment will be due May 1, 2026
The second payment will be due July 1, 2026
Payment in full is also an option for those who prefer.
No payment plans will be available after June 1, 2026.
After this date, full payment will be required.
All unpaid balances are due August 1, 2026.
Registration closes August 31, 2026.
Schedule:
Day 1 - Wednesday, Sept. 23:
7:30 - 8 a.m - Movement with Audra (Shake things up a bit and get your juices flowing for the day)
8:30 - 9:30 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - Instruction / Studio / Class time
1 p.m. - Lunch
2 - 5:30 p.m. - Hands-on Applications
6 p.m. - Dinner
Evening time free.
Arrival Day - Tuesday, Sept. 22:
4 p.m. - Meet at the Westport Train Station
5 p.m. - Welcome reception with light hors d'oeuvres and drinks
6 p.m. - Dinner
Check-in and evening free time
Day 2 - Thursday, Sept. 24:
7:30 - 8 a.m - Movement with Audra (Shake things up a bit and get your juices flowing for the day)
8:30 - 9 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - Instruction / Studio / Class time
1 p.m. - Lunch
2 - 5:30 p.m. - Hands-on Applications
6 p.m. - Dinner
Evening time free
Day 3 - Friday, Sept. 25:
7:30 - 8 a.m - Movement with Audra
8:30 - 9 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - Guided Tour
A full day guided tour of Achill Island taking the Wild Atlantic Way route. Achill with the highest sea cliffs in Western Europe, iconic beaches, soaring mountains, numerous lakes, amazing boglands and intriguing historical sites, all set under huge and ever-changing Atlantic skies. Lunch at the BeeHive Restaurant. https://achilltourism.com/experience-achill/videos/
6 pm - Dinner
Evening free time
Day 4 - Saturday, Sept. 26:
7:30 - 8 a.m - Movement with Audra
8:30 - 9 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - Instruction / Studio / Class Time
1 p.m. - Lunch
2 - 5:30 p.m. - Hands-on Applications
6 p.m. - Dinner
Evening free time or local cultural entertainment (date subject to change to another evening)
Day 5 - Sunday, Sept. 27:
7:30 - 8 a.m - Movement with Audra
8:30 - 9 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Hands-On Application
1 p.m. - lunch
2 p.m. - Half Day Excursion
Tour Guide, Colum Ginnelly, a local sheep farmer, will entertain the group sharing historical stories while taking ‘off the beaten track’ routes.
6 p.m. - Dinner out
Evening free time
Day 6 - Monday, Sept. 28:
7:30 - 8 a.m - Movement with Audra
8:30 - 9 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - Instruction / Studio / Class Time
1 p.m. - Lunch
2 - 5:30 p.m. - Hands-On Application
6 p.m. - Dinner
Evening time free.
Departure Day - Tuesday, Sept. 29:
8:30 - 9 a.m - Breakfast
10 a.m. - Private Shuttle back to Westport Train Station
$500 Deposit Reserves Your Spot
What’s Included
6-day retreat at the Mulranny Arts Center
Lodging 7-night in coastal accommodations (private/shared options)
The fee includes the following meals: 7 in-house dinners, 8 lunches. One lunch and 2 dinners, while on tour or taken in a local restaurant, are not included. Students purchase their own alcohol at a local shop.
Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinners (1 lunch + 2 dinners are self-funded)
1 evening of cultural entertainment included
All hands-on classes and art materials
Daily instruction + guided studio time
12 large sample boards for your portfolio
Full-day tour of Achill Island with local guide. The Fee includes one full day guided tour.
Transportation to and from Ireland Westport Train Station. The fee includes Private Shuttle Transport from and to Westport Train Station.
Space is limited to keep our experience intimate, intentional, and deeply connected.
Notes: Due to limited accommodation facilities, student spouses or partners are not encouraged, however, if required an additional fee of 100% of the student fee will be charged at the private ensuite rate.
Location
The Mulranny Arts Center
Wild Atlantic Way, County Mayo, Ireland
Our retreat is set in one of Ireland’s most poetic coastal villages. With peat hills, crashing surf, and historic paths, Mulranny is where land and legend meet. The newly built Mulranny Arts Center #2 —and you’ll be part of that creative legacy.
Additional Information
All breakfasts will be self-catered buffet style and will be served at ‘The Main House’.
Other meals that are included will be served at the Mulranny Arts dining facilities or in a local restaurant. One lunch and two restaurant dinners are not included (as stated above).
Gluten-free and vegetarian meals can be provided upon request. Attendees are responsible for informing Design 7 Seven and Mulranny Arts of any dietary requirements or allergies prior to the start of the retreat, to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.
All accommodation offered are within a few minutes’ walk of the Mulranny Arts facility, however, transportation can be arranged for students who are unable to walk, or if it is raining.
Please note: There is not an elevator, only stairs, in the facility. This could present a problem for persons with limited mobility. The facilities are not fully accessible for wheelchairs at the present time.
Accommodation is not available for students prior to or after the retreats scheduled dates.
Staff do not enter the bedrooms during the visit, but fresh towels and linens are always available should they be needed.
Hairdryers are available. However, people must bring their own plug adapters (not convertors) for charging phones and any other equipment.
Travel Information
A private shuttle bus will pick up students/guests arriving at Westport Train Station on the 12.45pm train from Heuston Station, Dublin. It arrives at 4pm where transport is provided for the 30 minute drive to the village of Mulranny. Pick up from other areas in Westport included at this time if people arrived earlier, but later trains require a private taxi service with fees of approximately €50.
A private bus will be available at the end of the Retreat to transport students back to the Westport Train station for the 9.45am train to Hueston Station, Dublin. These train times have not changed in years, but always check when planning – www.Irishrail.ie
For Students arriving at Knock Airport (1.5 hours’ drive from Mulranny):
- a private taxi can be arranged for an additional fee of €70 (each way)
- There is a public bus service from Knock Airport to Westport. Pick up arrangements from Westport can be made for an additional Taxi Fee of €50. (If not not able to avail of the pickup time in Westport stated above).
Travel Information
A private shuttle bus will pick up students/guests arriving at Westport Train Station on the 12.45pm train from Heuston Station, Dublin. It arrives at 4pm where transport is provided for the 30 minute drive to the village of Mulranny. Pick up from other areas in Westport included at this time if people arrived earlier, but later trains require a private taxi service with fees of approximately €50.
A private bus will be available at the end of the Retreat to transport students back to the Westport Train station for the 9.45am train to Hueston Station, Dublin. These train times have not changed in years, but always check when planning – www.Irishrail.ie
For Students arriving at Knock Airport (1.5 hours’ drive from Mulranny):
- a private taxi can be arranged for an additional fee of €70 (each way)
- There is a public bus service from Knock Airport to Westport. Pick up arrangements from Westport can be made for an additional Taxi Fee of €50. (If not not able to avail of the pickup time in Westport stated above).
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Participants are required to have travel insurance and we strongly suggest workshop fee insurance to protect their investment in case of unforeseen events such as illness or travel disruptions.
We encourage you to purchase trip insurance immediately upon registering, especially a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy to cover unexpected circumstances. Purchase trip insurance when you book your trip if you wish to have this additional coverage.
Suggested Insurance Providers
Allianz Travel Insurance https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com
Squaremouth https://www.squaremouth.com/travel-insurance-quotes
More COVID policy information: https://www.squaremouth.com/press-room/travel-insurance-coronavirus
Recommended plans on Squaremouth:
HTH Worldwide – TripProtector Preferred (includes COVID cancellation)
Trawick Intl – Safe Travels Voyager (includes COVID cancellation)
TinLeg Gold (includes COVID cancellation)
Additional providers:
Insure MyTrip https://www.insuremytrip.com
Travel Insurance Marketplace https://www.aardy.com
While travel insurance is mandatory, workshop fee insurance is strongly recommended to protect your investment. This also ensures that the financial commitments made to our teachers and partners are upheld.
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing a memorable and inspiring retreat with you.
"I found a deeper rhythm for my creativity, the setting, the people, the textures…it was unforgettable."
Meet The Team
Sandra Gonzalez
Artist & Creative Innovator
Founder, Design 7 Seven Decorative Products
Specializing in high-impact decorative surface finishes, custom artwork and creative restorations. With a keen eye for texture and transformative layered beauty, she’s turned interiors into living artworks—and built a dedicated following through her company’s signature glaze and plasters.
A multidisciplinary creative and educator, Sandra’s roots trace over 3 decades of experience where she aligns art and design with purpose. Her background is marked by innovation, resilience, and a passion for multiple mediums. Her career spans from decorative artistry, custom art to immersive workshops. Her work reflects an ethos of transformation: of spaces, of people, and of surface storytelling.
Sandra’s teaching style blends technical expertise with generous mentorship—she believes in hands-on discovery, bold experimentation, and bringing new, expressive finishes to life.
At this retreat, she'll lead you through the exploration of dynamic architectural finishes such as matte plaster, mica-infused glaze, aggregate texture, and more.
Known for her bold creativity and depth of knowledge, Sandra Gonzalez is a master of color, layering, and contemporary finishes. Her energetic teaching style and expertise in eco-conscious materials make her workshops both enriching and electric. She’ll bring sparkle, depth, and a little bit of Texas to Ireland’s misty coast.
Audra Lynch
Surface Artist & Creative Guide
Founder, Audra Lynch et Cie • Wrenhaus Retreats • Three Trees Public Art House
Audra Lynch is a surface artist, educator, and retreat leader whose work bridges craftsmanship with soul. With a background in graphic design and nearly 30 years of experience in decorative finishes, she transforms surfaces into deeply personal expressions—layered with mineral pigments, natural textures, and meaning.
Her studio, Audra Lynch et Cie, is known for floor-forward design and thoughtful artistry that blends environment and emotion. A respected teacher and speaker, Audra has led workshops across the U.S. and abroad, inspiring others through hands-on technique and intuitive design.
Through Wrenhaus Retreats, she curates immersive creative experiences in Ireland and beyond—merging architectural finishes with rest, reflection, and personal growth. Her latest initiative, Three Trees Public Art House, invites community connection through art, workshops, and nature-inspired living.
With a quiet strength and a gift for cultivating beauty, Audra brings clarity, curiosity, and creativity to every project and person she works with.
Pricing & Payment
Ireland Retreat - Deposit & Payment Schedule
A $500 deposit is required to secure your place. This deposit is non-refundable and covers initial expenses, ensuring your spot is reserved.
The remaining balance will be divided into two payments, with invoices sent 30 days before each due date:
The first payment will be due May 1, 2026
The second payment will be due July 1, 2026
Payment in full is also an option for those who prefer.
No payment plans will be available after June 1, 2026.
After this date, full payment will be required.
All unpaid balances are due August 1, 2026.
Registration closes August 31, 2026
We accept Zelle and your bank Debit Card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover. Credit card payments will incur a 3.85% additional fee.
Room Options:
Early Bird Pricing: $4295.00 before May 1
Regular Pricing: $4595 after May 2
Private Room with Ensuite Bath
All balances due by August 1, 2026
Room Options:
Early Bird Pricing: $3995 before May 1
Regular Pricing: $4295.00 after May 2
Private Room with Shared Bath
Shared Room with Shared Bath
All balances due by August 1, 2026
Cancellation Policy
“A Soulful Journey” Retreat in Mulranny, Ireland with Sandra Gonzalez and Audra Lynch Nanay reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to low enrollment without incurring obligations. In such cases, all deposits and payments will be fully refunded.
We understand that unexpected circumstances may arise and strive to maintain a cancellation policy that is fair to both our participants and our organization.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
The $500 deposit required to secure your place is non-refundable and covers initial expenses.
Workshop deposits and fees are applied as a prepayment of tuition.
Because this retreat requires significant planning, sourcing, and preparation of specialized materials, the following cancellation terms apply:
$500 deposit is non-refundable.
Cancellations received 90 days prior to the workshop start date will be refunded minus a $750 cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 90 days of the workshop, please see the 90-day deadline cancellation policy below.
FAQ’s
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“A Soulful Journey” Retreat in Mulranny, Ireland with Sandra Gonzalez and Audra Lynch Nanay reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to low enrollment without incurring obligations. In such cases, all deposits and payments will be fully refunded.
We understand that unexpected circumstances may arise and strive to maintain a cancellation policy that is fair to both our participants and our organization.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
The $500 deposit required to secure your place is non-refundable and covers initial expenses.
Workshop deposits and fees are applied as a prepayment of tuition.
Because this retreat requires significant planning, sourcing, and preparation of specialized materials, the following cancellation terms apply:
$500 deposit is non-refundable
Cancellations received 90 days prior to the workshop start date will be refunded minus a $750 cancellation fee.
.If you cancel within 90 days of the workshop, see the 90-day deadline cancellation policy below.
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You have the following options:
1. Sold-Out Retreat with Waitlist
If you have fully paid registration and the retreat is sold out with a waitlist, you may offer your spot to the next person in line. If they accept, they will pay you directly, and we will officially transfer your reservation to them.
2. Transfer to Another Retreat
You may transfer your payment to another upcoming workshop or retreat within 12 months of your original booking.
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Yes! For those not traveling with your partner or spouse who are not attending classes, there is an additional fee for accommodation, meals and excursions. You must select Private Room and Ensuite Bath.
Non-attendee - Early Bird Pricing $2995 before May 1st, After May 2nd $3395
If you partner or spouse attends the classes, they will be charged the normal student rate.