Themes for the weekend include:
Understanding the Power of Creativity
Creativity is a boundless force residing within each of us, waiting to be unleashed. Many people find themselves stuck in the rigidity of routine and self-doubt, unable to tap into this wellspring of inspiration. At our retreat, we firmly believe that everyone is an artist, and we are dedicated to guiding you in discovering your unique creative voice..
Exploring the Unconscious Mind through Art
The unconscious mind is a reservoir of untapped potential and hidden emotions. Working with various art forms such as painting, drawing, clay sculpting, and creative writing, will provide a safe space for you to express yourself freely. These artistic mediums act as a gateway to accessing the deeper recesses of your mind, allowing you to process emotions, memories, and thoughts that may have been buried.
Breaking Free from Creative Limitations
Throughout life, we encounter barriers that hinder our creative expression. Whether it be fear of judgment, self-criticism, or past failures, these limitations restrict our artistic growth. This retreat employs guided exercises, group discussions, and one-on-one mentoring sessions to help you confront and overcome these obstacles, fostering a sense of creative liberation.
Cultivating Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
Artistic exploration is not only about creating visually appealing pieces; it is a journey of self-discovery. Through mindfulness practices, meditation, and reflection, this retreat encourages a deeper understanding of your emotions, desires, and beliefs. This heightened self-awareness will empower you to channel your emotions into your art, creating authentic and meaningful pieces.
In short ...
- Revitalize your joy in play
- An Inner journey to discover spirit
- Rediscover your innate creativity
- Use the arts for self-expression and communication
- Connect to the sacred qualities of community
- Strengthen you Emotional Intelligence
Visuals of the June 9-11, 2023 Retreat
Our Retreat Experience: A Recap
Our retreat weekend commenced with a delightful Friday evening gathering on the porch, where we all mingled over drinks and enjoyed a delicious dinner. The following morning after breakfast we started with movement and an interesting icebreaker. Throughout the morning, we delved into an exploration of the inner saboteur’s influence on our creativity and freedom.
Over lunch, we took a brief excursion to the nearby art market in the park, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere and live music by a local band.
Returning to our retreat space, – indoor or outdoors was the choice -, we engaged in a captivating exercise that seamlessly integrated. movement, painting, drawing, and clay sculpting. As evening descended, we savored a delightful dinner on the patio of a local Thai restaurant, further deepening our connections.
Sunday morning brought a rejuvenating trip to the woods, where we honed our visual awareness and observation skills through immersive exercises. Back at the house, participants had ample time to create art inspired by nature, using found treasures to craft paintings or 3D sculptures, and express ourselves through intuitive poems and prose.
As the day drew to a close, we gathered for a closing round of reflection and gratitude before bidding farewell at 4pm, enriched by our shared experiences and newfound inspirations.
It was hard to say goodbye after such a weekend of deep connections and group bonding.
More Reviews - Nourish Your Soul Summer 2023
Upon close observation of 1 square inch of forest floor in June during a time of wildfires.
Poem by Anne-Louise Oliphant.
My task: timelessness
The practice of perception. In dappled light, a quadrant of life
defined by twigs,
the boundaries train my eye.
The first citizens are the ants
whose industry does not cease.
Their pathways follow invisible ley lines,
no random route is theirs.
The play of shadow over trembling ferns – with each subtle breeze they dance –
those fronds the alveoli of the forest’s lungs.
Life out o death is the theme of this symphony’s first movement, whose melody is birdsong and the insects’ trill.
The skeletal veins of dead leaves
form the nurturing substrate of new life.
The tender artistry of a spider’s web suspended over dried grasses.
How audacious is the seedling’s aim
to soar as canopy.
while aphids shade under its newborn leaves.
My kingdom is more dry than lush –
such brittle fare for careless spark’s hungry maw.
New shoots’ brave stand would not endure
a burning rampage swift and sure.
But hope alights despite the threat,
oxygen – our life’s breath – the fuel.
Anne-Louise Bateman Oliphant
June 11, 2023
Questions Answered
Do I need to be good at art?
No experience is needed! We work entirely with intuition. This isn’t about making “pretty pictures”—it’s about the creative process, self-expression, and freedom. You’ll be guided through playful, exploratory exercises that allow your creativity to emerge naturally.
What’s included in the weekend retreat?
The weekend includes:
All art materials and supplies (no need to bring anything)
A welcome dinner Friday evening with cocktails and gifts
Light, fresh lunches on Saturday and Sunday (home cooked European cuisine throughout)
Snacks and refreshments throughout the retreat
Personalized attention in a small group (max 6 women)
Please note: Saturday dinner is not included, but we’ll plan a group outing to a local restaurant.
Where is the retreat held?
At my home studio in The Woods, Hedgesville, WV—a peaceful community surrounded by 22,000 acres of forest. Only 90 minutes from Washington, DC, and 30 minutes from Hagerstown, MD. You’ll be immersed in nature with trails right outside the door.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for movement and creating, walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray. I’ll send a full list two weeks before the retreat. Everything else — art materials, journals, and sketchbooks—will be provided.
Can I bring my own journal or materials?
Yes, absolutely. While I’ll provide a full range of materials (including a sketchbook), you’re welcome to bring anything special you’d like to use but it’s not necessary. We’ll work with a variety of art materials and modalities.
Where do I stay during the retreat?
There are over 35 Airbnbs and four lodges in The Woods community. You’ll receive lodging suggestions upon registration. Two guest rooms in my home may be available on request. If you’re interested in sharing accommodations, I can help coordinate.
What's the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 30 days before the retreat will receive a full refund minus a $50 admin fee. Cancellations made within 30 days of the event are non-refundable, unless your spot can be filled. You can view the full cancellation policy here.
Retreat on request with a friend from Germany tailored to their goals.
Small retreats of 1, 2 or 3 days will be tailored to your wishes, goals, and interests. It’s a whole package just like the annual Nourish Your Soul Retreat. The difference is that you can schedule it on a date that is convenient for your schedule, 1, 2, or 3 days.
Few pictures of a 2-day Abstract Painting Workshop August, 2023. One local participant with her friend from Germany.
It was a fun couple of days with lots of painting and delicious and healthy home cooked meals.
April 19-21, 2024
Another fabulous 3-day retreat with 2 participants. Here the focus was more on coaching and painting feelings. Learning the difference between feelings and thoughts. This knowledge gives you better control over automatic behaviors.
“I just like to thank you again for the wonderful weekend. You are an excellent cook, a gracious host, a great coach, and a gregarious friend. I am brimming with energy and creativity. Be well!” F.S.
Private Intuitive Painting Retreat
TAILORED TO YOUR WISHES, GOALS, INTERESTS
If you like to schedule a private painting class. This can also be tailored to your wishes. It can be just painting, or painting with coaching. Or just coaching.
Are you interested in learning the techniques of painting with oils or acrylics in abstract or realistic form you are at the right address.
I teach on Zoom and also in my studio in Hedgesville, WV and for the Yellow Barn in Glen Echo, MD.
