The Heart of Artable
Australia's Leading Artists and Mentors
Jessie Watts
Jessica Watts is an artist based in the Northern Beaches of Sydney. More than just an oil painter, she is known for her focus on materials and craftsmanship. Her works are a celebration of process, and are completely hand made, from start to finish. She employs a highly individual visual language, painting on backgrounds from wallpaper to cement to Australian hardwood veneers, creating an enchanting world where women with poetic tattoos are adorned in flowers and colourful birds perch and preen.
Her popular Pretty Boys are a fun, anthropomorphic series that delight in seeing the human in the birds around us. Assigning human traits to non-humans activates the part of the brain involved in social behavior and drives our emotional connection with animals and inanimate objects. Pretty Boy has more than one mirror in his bedroom, he chooses cocktails over beer and he’s never been camping in his life.
Jessica received a Bachelor of Design with Hons & the University Medal from the University of Technology Sydney before a long career working as a multi-award winning advertising art director, including working for a decade in New York. She has been a full time artist since 2010. In 2017 she teamed up with Tokyo art dealer Rocky Degawa and together they have staged many successful solo shows at the prestigious Bunkamura Gallery in Tokyo and throughout Japan. Jessica is also represented by Eclectic Gallery in London. She works in her loft studio in the company of her wonky blue-eyed dog Kevin.
Learn from the best
Australia's best artists, ready to share their craft, passion and creative process with you.
Clair Bremner
Colley Whisson
Debbie Mackinnon & Mike Staniford
Chan Dissanayake
Georgie Forbes of Lordy Dordie
Gillian Grove
Heidi Willis
Jessie Watts
Jodie Graham
John Lovett
Judy Drew
Julie Lynch
Kasey Sealey
Leanne Daquino
Leanne Pearson
Lyn Diefenbach
Manuela Pilz
Natalie Martin
Patrick Visser
Rachael King
Tim Allen
Zoe Sernack
What our customers say
Testimonials
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"The whole Artable experience from booking through to the exciting week with Debbie MacKinnon and Mike Staniford was exceptional! Lara’s (Artable) communication was constant and informative, answering any questions promptly and thoughtfully. The artists generosity, friendliness and inspiration made for a brilliant learning experience in the beautiful Tassie landscape! Gillian and Steve were amazing hosts, catering to our every need. I would recommend an Artable workshop or retreat to anyone looking for an unforgettable chance to work with the best! Thank you Artable, I’ll see you again soon!"
Amanda Johnson
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"Had a absolutely fabulous, inspiring & relaxing time staying at Artables, Winnaleah Tasmania. Special memories, loved it. Thank you to Gillian, Steve & the Artable staff"
Barbara Gray
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"The art retreat with Natalie Martin that I attended in Tasmania far exceeded all my expectations. I gained new skills, learned so much about painting outdoors, and felt incredibly supported and encouraged—not only by Natalie, but also by the other attendees. It was exactly what I needed to find clarity on some issues I had been struggling with and to spark fresh inspiration for my next big projects."
Jane du Plessis
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"When l booked this retreat, l had no idea what a "treat" it would turn out to be. From the get go the support and care was outstanding. The Artable team are wonderful ...kind, responsive and so connected to everyones needs.... they've thought of it before we have! The retreat space in Winneleah is lovely - so private and comfortable and quiet. Beautiful. Our teachers, Debbie MacKinnon & Mike Staniford, were fabulous ... both very different so we got to learn heaps. l felt really lucky to learn from such talented people. And the other students were all so talented too ... the group as a whole was so kind and connected. My first art retreat will definitely not be my last, but l think this one will be hard to top! Massive thanks Gill, Steve, and everyone who made it so special."
Jodie Tuckwell-Knight
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"Absolutely loved my retreat at Enclave in Tassie with Natalie Martin and a beautiful group of likeminded artists. Would recommend Artable. Enclave and Natalie to anyone and everyone who want to extend their art practice and get new inspiration."
Karen Neuendorf
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"My first experience with Artable has been just wonderful. From when I first booked with Lara, to the incredible hosts Steve and Gillian. They arranged airport pick ups, unique tasty menu and comfortable beds to sink into each night. Their retreat in Winnaleah was truly amazing. Set in rural Tassie, it offered great surroundings and little day trips. Their open art studio was perfect for daily workshops with Heidi Willis. I learned so much in that week with Heidi, I shall be forever in her debt. She’s a caring teacher who gives individual time to each student. I would recommend Artable retreats to anyone wanting that luxurious week away with like minded students and their favourite tutor. I would definitely do it again."
Lynne Wunsch
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"I'm a long-time Artable fan! I've attended half-day and two-day workshops on the Gold Coast with Natalie Martin (watercolour artist) so it was a no-brainer to sign up for a week-long retreat to immerse myself in watercolour with Natalie in Tasmania. The retreat at Enclave was an incredible experience from start to finish. Natalie's calm, grounded nature makes learning such a joy. I picked up so many new techniques and a huge boost in confidence, as well as thoroughly enjoying my week of art immersion. I especially loved that Natalie set us up with a project that we finished and took home as a completed work. I cannot recommend Natalie and Artable enough. I've already signed up for another one in 2026. If you've ever considered going to a retreat and have hesitated, jump in with Artable!"
Nicole Weber
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"Could not fault anything…….wonderful tuition, perfectly executed and amazing knowledge was generously shared. Thank you Debbie and Mike. We shared incredibly tasty food every day and were transported to beautiful Tasmanian landscapes by our lovely hosts. Thank you Gill and Steve. Our group of fellow artists was the best. We enjoyed much laughter, interesting conversation and enjoyed very merry companionship. What a great group. Thank you all. My first retreat but not my last retreat."
Robyn Cross
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"My week at Enclave retreat, learning from artist Lyn Diefenbach, exceeded all of my expectations. The property was beautiful, full of historic charm. Hosts Gillian and Steve were welcoming and made every effort to ensure we enjoyed our stay. Our day trips around the local area were a highlight of the week. I'll be back."
Sallyanne Wienert
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"Exceptional fine art tuition."
Sin Design & Branding