Something’s Gotta Give: A Creative Reset Awayday for Professionals Feeling Stuck or Burnt Out

Multiple dates across 2026 | 10am - 4pm| Rural Peace Hub, Hexham

Workshops • Exhibitions • Open Studio with Sara Downham-Lotto
No art experience needed. Reflect, recharge, and reset through simple, guided creative practice.

Feeling stuck, burnt out, or unsure what comes next?
Set in a relaxed, supportive environment in the heart of rural Northumberland, this is your chance to step away from the noise and enjoy some well-deserved time for yourself. Led by artist and Arts Lab Rural Peace Hub Director Sara Downham-Lotto, the day blends reflection, art-making, and shared experience in an inspiring setting - with views across the wild North Pennine landscape, artwork-filled interiors, and warm hospitality.

Who it’s for
This is especially for people who don’t see themselves as creative, but are open to trying something different - and brave enough to step beyond their comfort zone. The experience is for anyone who feels:
Stuck or at a crossroads
Burnt out or in need of a reset
Creatively blocked or lacking direction
Or simply feels curious about (re-)connecting with creativity.
No experience needed.
 Just bring an open mind - this is a relaxed, pressure-free space with no ‘right way’ to create.

The day includes a rich, carefully guided programme designed to restore, inspire, and energise:
Experience, Access & Learning
Artist-led guided creative workshops
Open studio access and artist demonstrations
Live art exhibition around the Hub, offering insight into Sara’s creative process
Preview of Sara’s latest work
Reflection and conversation
Opportunity to connect with people from a range of professions

Enjoy:
Coffee, tea, and homemade cake on arrival
Vegetarian lunch (soup, cheese, bread, dessert)
Time in the garden with expansive rural views
Optional walk along Isaac’s Tea Trail after the session
Opportunity to purchase original artwork (25% discount for participants)
Provision of all art materials
Your own artwork to take home

What we’ll do together
Making art can feel daunting - especially if you haven’t done it in years (or ever). The day is designed to be accessible, supportive, playful, and freeing. Guided step-by-step, you’ll:
Experiment with art materials and techniques
Explore ideas through making
Try drawing, painting, collage, and 3D making
Take part in hands-on reflective activities
Build confidence through exploration and play
Create without pressure or expectation

What you’ll gain:
This isn’t simply a day out. You’ll leave with a tangible shift in how you think and feel:
More creatively confident
Energised and mentally refreshed
Open to new ideas and perspectives
More comfortable with experimentation and change
Creative problem-solving skills
Communication and collaboration
Flexible, adaptive thinking

And gain insight into how creativity can support wellbeing, connection, and meaningful change.

About Sara
Sara Downham-Lotto is an abstract painter, educator, and arts-based facilitator with over 35 years’ experience working with communities worldwide. Visit her website here www.saradownhamlotto.com 

T: 07951819796
E: [email protected]
W: www.arts-lab.co.uk