Painting the Portrait and Figures Scotland with Ruth Fitton

Scottish Manor Estate, Angus, Scotland July 9—17, 2026

Join acclaimed figurative artist Ruth Fitton for an immersive painting workshop in the heart of the Scottish countryside. This exceptional experience focuses on alla prima portraiture and figure painting, both in-studio and en plein air on the magnificent manor estate in Angus.

Throughout the workshop, Ruth will guide participants in capturing the essence and energy of the human form with fresh, expressive brushwork. Working closely with each artist, she will provide individualized feedback and help refine your technique—whether you are painting a model indoors, under natural light in the gardens, or composing figures within the dramatic Scottish landscape.

The estate itself offers a rich setting of inspiration: expansive grounds, pristine natural beauty, and the tranquil rhythm of rural Scottish life. You’ll be surrounded by color, character, and historic charm. Be ready for a visual and creative feast—from luminous skin tones to the textures of nature.

In addition to daily instruction and painting sessions, artists will venture to local destinations such as fishing villages, historic castles, and cultural sites that add depth to the experience. Evening sessions include painting demonstrations, discussions, and artistic exchange with Ruth and fellow attendees.

Other highlights include excursions to Dundee and the V&A Museum, Dunnotter Castle, a whisky distillery tasting, serene lochs and glens, and visits to the local village pub. This is more than a workshop—it’s a chance to grow as an artist while living and creating in one of the most captivating parts of Scotland.

We invite you to join us for a transformative week of painting, learning, and connection at our beautiful historic estate in Angus.

Open to artists of all levels, this workshop offers a supportive and focused environment to elevate your painting practice. Ruth will lead with a dynamic combination of demonstrations, personalized one-on-one guidance, and constructive critiques, helping you explore expressive alla prima portrait and figure techniques. You’ll paint both in the studio and outdoors on the historic grounds of a stunning Scottish manor estate—surrounded by breathtaking views, gardens, and timeless architecture.

Each day will bring new opportunities to hone your skills, connect with your subject, and deepen your understanding of the figure in natural light. Whether you’re refining brushwork, learning to capture likeness, or composing within a broader landscape, Ruth’s attentive teaching style ensures you’ll grow both technically and artistically.

Beyond the easel, the experience is equally rich. You’ll explore nearby villages, visit historic castles, taste local whisky at a traditional distillery, and stroll outdoor markets for a bit of retail therapy. The week promises a true immersion in Scottish culture—filled with beauty, heritage, and inspiration at every turn.

Instruction and accommodations are based at a grand Scottish manor estate, offering comfort, character, and a sense of creative retreat. It’s the perfect setting to slow down, focus deeply on your painting, and connect with fellow artists.

Ready to take your portrait and figure painting to the next level in a truly extraordinary setting? Join Ruth Fitton this July for a workshop experience unlike any other.

Ruth Fitton

Award winning artist, Jennifer McChristian, was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. From an early age, she knew she wanted to be an artist. Upon completing high school, McChristian began her art education at Dawson’s College in Montreal, Canada. In 1986, she and her family took permanent residency in California, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Art Degree with Honors from Otis Art Institute in 1990.

Jennifer proudly served in the Canadian and United States army reserves from 1985 through 1994.

McChristian was employed as a full-time animation artist and worked on projects for various animation studios including Disney and Nickelodeon. She has continued her studies under the tutelage of renowned artists Robert Blue, Karl Dempwolf, and Steve Huston. Her inspirations consist of notable artists such as John Singer Sargent, Anders Zorn, Nicolai Fechin and Cecilia Beaux. McChristian primarily paints in oils and occasionally watercolors and gouache. She has an affinity for painting ‘en plein air’ and also enjoys creating studio works using her outdoor sketches as inspiration. “Painting is somewhat of a spiritual experience for me. Although challenging at times, the end result evokes within me a sense of elation, nostalgia and harmony”.

Since 2000, McChristian has devoted herself to painting full-time and actively participates in art events and community building programs. She conducts an ongoing, uninstructed figure drawing workshop three times a week out of her spacious studio (that she refers to as her ‘sanctuary’) located in the heart of Los Feliz Village, CA. In addition, McChristian teaches plein air painting workshops in various locations throughout the United States and abroad. McChristian also finds the time to pursue other artistic interests such as classical ballet. She believes learning is a never-ending process and continues to develop and refine her artistic talent through workshops, research, travel and frequent excursions to museums and galleries.

McChristian was the ‘Grand Prize’ winner of the 11th Annual PleinAir Salon Awards for her painting ‘Catalyst‘. She was also awarded ‘Best Landscape and Plein Air’ for the 2023 Almenara Art Prize for her painting ‘Still Standing‘.

Jennifer is a Signature Member of Oil Painters of America (OPA) and an Associate Member of the American Impressionist Society (AIS).

“The Abduction of Time” by Ruth Fitton

Works by Ruth Fitton