Full Circle Retreat Workshops

2009

Every now and then, go away, have a little relaxation. For when you come back to your work

your judgment will be surer, since to remain constantly at work will cause you to lose power of judgment.”

Leonardo da Vinci

 

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Mandalas: A Centering Practice

Saturday, May 9

Kathleen Grittner

The word Mandala is from Sanskrit, the classical Indian language, translated broadly

means circle. Circles are found in all of life and nature. They symbolize continuation,

wholeness and the interconnectedness of all things.

Making a Mandala is a centering practice in which we invite the fundamental pattern

of order and wholeness, the web of life that supports and sustains us. It is a way to

create a sacred space that connects us to deeper wisdom.

This workshop offers you an opportunity to develop your own approach to using the mandala as a tool for exploration,

meditation and expression. We will create mandalas using a variety of natural and art materials, from sticks and

stones, to watercolor, oil pastels and paint. By creating your own spontaneous and personal mandalas you will

deepen your experience of this centering practice. No prior art experience is required.

Everything belongs in the circle where we are all one, all connected. The circle teaches us to see the bigger picture. It is always moving and evolving.”-Elena Avila

*You may arrive Friday evening and stay until Sunday afternoon for a relaxing retreat weekend experience. Weekend Retreat includes

the Saturday Workshop and a special two-night lodging rate.

One-day Workshop: $100  *Weekend Retreat: $155

Saturday: 9am-4pm

 

 

Reiki Level I

Saturday, May 16

Audrey Chowdhury

If you have ever wondered about energy healing and the amazing power of the body to heal from within, this is the

workshop for you. You will learn about Reiki, receive a Level I attunement, receive Reiki healing energy treatments,

and have the opportunity to express your experience through art making and/or journaling. "Reiki (Ray-key) is one of

many complementary therapies which focus on the whole person (mind, body and spirit) and works well in conjunction

with western medicine. The word Reiki is Japanese, meaning "Universal Life Energy." Reiki is literally the life force of

the universe. The practice of Reiki healing was discovered by Dr. Usui in Japan over 100 years ago. Reiki enhances

the body's ability to promote healing, relieve pain, reduce stress and create relaxation, thereby improving a person's

overall well-being. During a Reiki session the practitioner brings this energy to the client using a series of light touch

hand placements on (or slightly above) the (fully-clothed) body of the person. Reiki works to restore balance and

harmony on all levels.

Following the Reiki I class, you may wish to visually express your experience through the use of an art medium, such

as paint, pastels, collage, and/or journaling. This is your opportunity to image your body's experience and learn what

wisdom it has to share with you. Audrey Chowdhury, MS, ATR-BC, is a Reiki Master Teacher, as well as an art

therapist. She is also trained in the use of sound healing and incorporates the use of tuning forks in her Reiki

treatments. She has been attuned by Reiki teachers from the lineage of Dr. Usui. You will leave the workshop with

certification as a Level I Reiki practitioner, from the lineage of Dr. Usui.

This is a one-day workshop, Saturday, May 16th, 9am-5pm. You may arrive Friday evening and staying until Sunday

afternoon for a full retreat experience. Sunday the studio will be available for further art making, or you may wish to

just relax and enjoy being in the beauty and rejuvenating presence of nature.

Certification Workshop, Saturday (9am-5pm): $225

Weekend Retreat includes Certification Workshop and two nights lodging: $295

 

 

Resisting A Rest: A Woman’s Retreat Weekend

May 29-31

Jeanette Stevenson and Kathleen Grittner

As women it is often difficult for us to find a time or place to rest. When

we do, it is usually accompanied by guilt. When everyone around us

needs something all time we tend to neglect our own needs. Life coach,

Jeanette Stevenson will share with us how we as women need to fill

ourselves up in order to truly give to others. During this retreat weekend, we will explore ways of taking care of

ourselves and stop resisting a rest! We will discuss and practice ways to refuel, refresh, and keep our life in

balance everyday. Kathleen will guide us through some simple, yet powerful practices that help us maintain a healthy

mind, body and spirit. Join us for this rejuvenating, self-care retreat and see how easy it is to serve others when you

take care of yourself.

More about Jeanette at: www.JeanetteStevenson.com

** Special lodging rate for this retreat **

Weekend Retreat including two nights lodging: $195 for registrations postmarked by May 1st, $225 thereafter.

Weekend Workshop without lodging: $150 by May 1, $170 thereafter. 

 

 

The Artist’s Way

June 19-21      Retreat Weekend

August 3-4-5   Mid-week Retreat

Kathleen Grittner

Many of us sense that we are more creative and wish we were more creative, but are

unsure how to tap into that creativity. Many of us long to feel more free. The Artist’s Way

is a specific process designed to free your creativity, described in the book by Julia

Cameron, The Artist’s Way, A Course in Discovering and Recovering Your Creative Self.

Although you can work through the program alone, doing it with others provides support

and encouragement for this exhilarating, challenging, playful, rewarding work.

At The Artist’s Way retreats here at Full Circle Retreat you will have the opportunity to give focused attention to your

your creative self; your true nature. Through experiential art-making and writing exercises, we will explore many of

the themes in the book. Creativity is something available to everyone; an experience that we can intentionally invite

into our lives. This retreat is an intensive, guided encounter with your own creativity. So no matter if you have

started The Artist’s Way at some point, or have never heard of it, this is an opportunity to practice some of the

specific tools and methods outlined in this process.

Join us in supporting yourself and others in “practicing the art of creative living”. Attend one or both of the

The Artist’s Way retreats this summer. “No matter what your age or your life path, whether making art is your

career or your hobby or your dream, it is not too late or too egotistical or too selfish or too silly to work on your

creativity.”--A quote from Julia Cameron’s inspiring book, The Artist’s Way.

Retreat Weekend: $160 for registrations received by May 25th. $175 therafter.--August Mid-Week Retreat: $175 by July 10th/$195 after.

*You can extend your Artist's Way retreat and stay for the companion workshop:  "Art Materials: An Art Media Discovery Workshop" listed

directly below (June 22 and 23).

 

 

Art Materials: An Art Media Discovery Workshop

Monday-Tuesday, June 22-23

Also offered August 1-2

Kathleen Grittner

Remember the fun you had before your where “taught” how to make art?

The pure joy of making marks, doodling and trying new things just to see what

happens? This relaxing workshop is an opportunity to play around with a variety

of art materials. Tecniques will be demonstrated using different kinds of pastels,

chalks, papers and paints. Then you can then try them out and discover for yourself how they work and what you can

do with them. You will have lots of time to experiment with the ones that most intrigue you and to discover which

materials best suit your individual expression.

Materials provided

Two-Day Workshop: $160--*$130 for those extending their Artist’s Way Retreat (above).

One Day: $100

9am-4pm each day 

 

 

The Heroes Within: A SoulCollage® Retreat Weekend

June 26-28

Audrey Chowdhury

Explore your wide inner space through SoulCollage®. No prior art experience required.

Using your intuition and imagination, you will create 5”X 8” “card” collages, each reflecting

one of the many facets of the gem that is your True Self. The process begins with a one

hour musical “journey”, and is followed by selecting images and then simply arranging,

cutting and gluing the images onto a backing. The voice of the images will be your guide.

There are many dimensions to the SoulCollage® process. During this retreat, we will

focus on your inner heroes: the Council Suit. You will identify, name, and make

SoulCollage cards for the archetypal inner guides that you embody. Getting to know them

will bring the patterns of your personal stories into greater awareness, and help you begin

to see the ways your life experiences are being woven into the larger story of humanity.

When you learn to speak and see in archetypes”, teaches Caroline Myss, “you start to comprehend the world in an altogether different way.”

*This weekend workshop begins Friday at 5:00 pm and ends Sunday at 1:00 pm--All materials supplied.

SoulCollage® is a process developed by Seena Frost of Santa Cruz, CA. SoulCollage® is a unique blend of spirituality, psychotherapy, and

creativity. Audrey Chowdhury traineded with and has been certified by Seena Frost to facilitate this process.

Weekend Retreat: $175 for registrations postmarked by June 1, $195 thereafter.

 

 

Visual Journaling

Monday-Tuesday, June 29-30

Kathleen Grittner

Journaling is something you do and keep for yourself. It is a kind of cross-training for

the brain that results in a more integrated thought process that facilitates clearer and

deeper understanding, useful for however you want to apply it in everyday life.

Visual journaling is a dynamic process of working with images-- the language of the

right brain, to tap into it’s often neglected gifts and abilities.--a way of knowing

beyond logic and words. This process requires no formal art or writing experience.

During this retreat we will practice some of the visual art and writing methods that I have found beneficial. You can

use them to begin or expand a journaling practice of your own. You will have plenty of time to relax and journal.

*This is a wonderful opportunity for those attending the SoulCollage Retreat (above) to extend their retreat and further work with the

images (cards) created during the previous weekend.

Two-Day Retreat: $160--*$130 for those extending their SoulCollage© Retreat Weekend (above).

9am-4pm each day.

 

 

Art For The Truly Terrified

Tuesday-Wednesday, July 7-8

Kathleen Grittner

Let yourself re-discover the pure fun of making marks, making a mess, playing with color and the joy of just seeing

what happens. In this relaxing workshop, we will play around with different kinds of art materials and tecniques.

You will be guided through a series of fun exercises that will allow you to experiment with a variety of art media and

re-aquaint yourself with the visual elements of art; line, shape, color, texture. Even if you think that you are not

creative and have no artistic skills, you will discover the artist in you!

Materials provided

Two-Day Workshop: $160--*$130 for those attending two or more days of the Drawing Series (below).

One-Day: $100

 

 

Three-Day Drawing Series

Take one, two or all three workshops!

You CAN Draw! For the Absolute Beginner

Thursday, July 9

Kay Brathol-Hostvet

If you can ride a bicycle, operate a sewing machine, or drive a car, you can

learn to draw, too!  The skill of drawing is simply a matter of eye-hand

coordination and practice.  The focus of this workshop will be on how we

learn to draw.  Drawing is a fun and relaxing hobby, a useful tool in planning

home and garden projects, and a foundation skill for all the other visual arts. 

If you are afraid to draw, Kay will alleviate those fears through fun—yes,

FUN!—drawing exercises and simple,straightforward directions to get you

started.  This is a great workshop for those who want a refresher on drawing,

too.  All materials are provided including your own drawing tools and

sketchbook to take home.

One-Day Workshop (9am-4pm): $100

Material Fee: $12. Supplies provided by instructor.

 

Developing Drawing Skills

Friday, July 10

Kay Brathol-Hostvet

Build upon your basic drawing skills and gain more pleasure in the drawing process in this one-day workshop. We will

focus on learning to see and measure accurately while using time-honored, traditional drawing techniques; we will

also be doing some exercises that help you loosen up a bit for a more gestural approach to drawing. We’ll work in

pencil, pen, and charcoal. Some materials will be provided by the instructor; a supply list will be sent to you.

One-Day Workshop (9am-4pm): $100

Material Fee $4.

 

Experimental Drawing

Saturday, July 11

Kay Brathol-Hostvet

Every child is an artist.The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” - Pablo Picasso

Drawing is one of the most elemental forms of communication throughout

human culture, and the foundation for all of the visual arts. This workshop is

for those who want to go beyond traditional drawing , expand skills and

creativity, gain more delight in the drawing process, and work at developing

an individual drawing style. Kay will challenge you to take that next step!

We will explore expressive mark-making, exaggeration, distortion, co-operative

drawing,and non-traditional materials. This is a process-oriented workshop where we will work both intuitively and

cerebrally; come with an open mind!

Some materials will be provided by the instructor; a supply list will be sent to you.

One-Day Workshop (9am-4pm): $100. Material fee: $4

*Sign up for two of these drawing workshops and take $20 off ($180 instead of $200).

All three days, take $30 off ($270 total instead of $300).

To view more of Kay’s work, please visit: www.kaybratholhostvet.com

 

 

Art Journals

Sunday-Monday, July 12-13

Kathleen Grittner

An Art Journal can take many forms. It can be a simple notepad or sketchbook that

you carry around in your pocket or it may be bound or unbound pages of any size, or

an existing book that you alter and embellish in some way. They can serve many

purposes as well. The intent of your journal/sketchbook/notepad is entirely up to

you.  A place to record random thoughts, ideas, information, impressions, feelings,

events, projects, what you eat maybe …and/or a place to explore new ideas, old

ideas, questions, insights, possibilities, drawing, painting, songs, color, poems,

marks, art materials, circles, birds, your right brain, your dream images…

Art Journals are ultimately a place where you can explore your interests, express yourself and experiment freely with

out the pressure to make a finished, beautiful, or sellable product. What you create in your journal may end up being

artistic--or not--it doesn’t matter. The nature of a journal is that it inspires your work, the most essential work of art

being…your life.

This workshop is an opportunity for you to try out some ways of expressing yourself artistically. We will use a variety

of art materials and methods that will “jumpstart” your unique creative process. No previous art experience required.

Two-Day Workshop: $160--*$130 for those attending two or more days of the Drawing Series (above) or The Mindful Eye (below).

One-Day $100

 

 

The Mindful Eye: A Contemplative Photography Workshop

Cultivating Peace, Wisdom and Creativity Through the Lens

Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday, July 14-15-16

Fernando Senior

Contemplative Photography combines the art of photography with the practice of

meditation. Universal wisdom tells us that the eyes are the windows to the soul.

From the soul's perspective, the eyes become the windows through which to see,

interpret and guide the human experience. Just as the practice of meditation allows

the mind to return to a state of equanimity and inner peace, the practice of

Contemplative Photography trains the eye and the mind to See as a way to nurture

the soul. Learning to See in full awareness brings about beauty, creativity, wisdom

and joy into our lives.

This workshop integrates the practice of mindfulness or conscious awareness with

the art of photography. More than a course in photographic techniques, this

workshop is about perceiving the world around us, from tangible objects to sensations and emotions. Ultimately,

is about using your camera to nurture your inner peace, wisdom and creativity. You will improve your image-making

skills, by virtue of being able to notice more potential images all around you. This retreat/workshop includes field

trips, group and individual exercises, journaling, and daily practices. This is a time for exploration, for reflection and

for image making. We then share and talk about our images and our insights in a supportive group environment;

learning how to distill personal wisdom from images and walking away with images that characterize our mindful eye.

Digital cameras are highly recommended, but not required. Given that most photo labs are able to save images to

CD, even disposable cameras will suffice. Remember that we are not making prints for competition, but to expand

our awareness. All photographic levels are welcomed.

More information at: http://www.themindfuleye.com/

*Note: $25 off lodging at Full Circle Retreat during this retreat/workshop for the first 6 people to register for all three days by June 15th

Three-Day Workshop: $275 for registrations postmarked by June 15, $300 thereafter

Two Days:$200 for registrations postmarked by June 15, $225 thereafter

One Day: $100 for registrations postmarked by June 15, $125 thereafter

9-4 each day

 

 

Waking Up To Spirit Through Art

July 17-19   Retreat Weekend

Kathleen Grittner

Creativity is an inborn, natural ability available to all of us. Art-making is a way to

dip into the creative realm of the infinite and to live more fully from a place of

passion, wisdom and spirit. I will guide you in image making exercises that

facilitate the playful and spontaneous creative process. No previous art experience

is necessary.

When we make art in a spirit of non-judgmental spontaneity, we surrender to the

creative process and allow ourselves to be open and receptive to the creative energy

all around us. Experience for yourself how these practices make visible your inherent intuitive wisdom, expand your

awareness, and deepen our experience of being human.

Materials provided. 

Retreat Weekend: $160.

 

 

Concrete Yard Art: A Three-Day Series of Workshops

Hypertufa Garden Pots

July 21

Susan Seyfarth

Remember the joys of making mud pies, of building sand castles? Put

on your old clothes and learn the art and science of making lightweight,

beautiful, natural looking pots and troughs for your plants. Topics include

safe working environments; properties of concrete, additives, and mixing

techniques; building and embellishing pots and troughs while in molds.

You will complete two pots and will receive instructions for unmolding and curing that takes place at your home

two weeks after class. Supply fee: $25

 

Embellishing Hypertufa Garden Pots

July 22

Susan Seyfarth

Ever admire beautifully decorated flowerpots but ouch!  prices were sky high?  Then put on your old

clothes and learn techniques that employ free or very inexpensive materials to create imaginative,

stunning garden art. Topics include safe working environments, bases, mastics, embellishing materials,

design, application techniques, and grouting. Cured hypertufa pots out of their molds will be provided

for you to decorate. You will take home one or two embellished pots and instructions for grouting or

stay for Mosaic Basics (below) and you may grout your pots during class. Supply fee: $25

 

Mosaic Basics

July 23

Susan Seyfarth   

Mosaic is one of the earliest art forms and arguably, one of the most beautiful. Over the years, artists have applied

a variety of materials including glass, stone, mirrors, jewels, and broken dishes to a variety of bases to create

religious tableaux, portraits, murals, garden art, and public art. Put on your old clothes and have fun learning about

and creating in this exciting medium as we make a mosaic sampler, and a mirror or picture frame. Topics include

safe working environments, bases, mastics, design, application techniques, design, and grouting.  You will take

home one sampler and one mirror or picture frame. Supply fee: $20.00

Workshop Fees        

One Day: $ 75

Two Days: $135

All Three Days: $175

9am-4pm each day

 

 

Meet Your Playful Self

July 24-26   Retreat Weekend

Dennis Kern

Would you like to feel more playful in your life, to find yourself laughing and

smiling more often? You do not need to change your career or buy anything to

be a more playful person. You already have a playful nature, eveyone does.

During this FUN, interactive workshop, Dennis will introduce us to some simple

group exercises that have allow hundreds of actors and improvisers to perform

on stage. Aspiring performer-or-not, you too are invited to Meet your Playful Self.

No previous theater experience is necessary, only the desire to discover the playful nature within yourself.

In the process of meeting our playful selves, we learn to improvise by actively doing things with the intention of

moving to a more intuitive and playful place. When you learn to move out to meet the unexpected, you may find

yourself becoming more present and accepting of the people, places and the events of your day-to-day live. As you

begin to feel more playful in your life and to take yourself less seriously, you may find it easier to laugh, smile and

enjoy “what is” your life.---Join us for this informative, active, freeing experience!

More about Dennis and his work at: http://www.myplayfulself.com

*Sign up early, this workshop is limited to 12 participants.

Workshop begins Friday evening at 6pm, continues Saturday 9am-4pm, and Sunday 9am-1pm

Weekend Workshop/Retreat:  $175 for registrations postmarked by July1, $195 thereafter.

 

 

Oil Painting En Plein Air

Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday, July 28-29-30

Kathie Wheeler

This workshop is for those who are interested in traditional studio art

intruction and painting in nature. The focus will be on the connection that

takes place between the artist and the landscape. The workshop will begin

with a discussion and demonstration of Kathie’s classical approach to

painting a landscape “en plein air,” working outside directly in nature.

One of the days during this three-day workshop, we will paint at the scenic

Vernon Vineyards, located at the top of one of the many beautiful bluffs here in Vernon County. After our day of

painting at the vineyard, we can relax and further enjoy the bounty of Vernon Vineyards at their wine tasting bar.

More about Vernon Vineyards at: www.vernonvineyards.com

You will receive one-on-one instruction in composition, color, paint application and drawing; and have plenty of

time to paint. All skill-levels welcome.

Three-Day Workshop: $250 for registrations postmarked by July 1, $275 thereafter 

Two-Days:$175

One-Day: $100

9am-4pm each day

See Kathie’s paintings at: www.kathiewheeler.com

 

 

Art Materials: An Art Media Discovery Workshop

Saturday-Sunday, August 1-2

Kathleen Grittner

Remember the fun you had before your where “taught” how to make art?

The pure joy of making marks, doodling and trying new things just to see what

happens? This relaxing workshop is an opportunity to play around with a variety

of art materials. Tecniques will be demonstrated using different kinds of pastels,

chalks, papers and paints. Then you can try them out and discover for yourself

how they work and what you can do with them. You will have lots of time to experiment with the ones that most

intrigue you and to discover what materials best suit your individual expression.

Materials provided  *Extend your retreat and stay for The Artist’s Way (below).

Two-day Workshop: $160--*$130 for those staying for The Artist’s Way.

One-Day: $100

9am-4pm each day 

 

 

The Artist’s Way

August 3-4-5   Mid-Week Retreat

Kathleen Grittner

Many of us sense that we are more creative and wish we were more creative, but are

unsure how to tap into that creativity. Many of us long to feel more free. The Artist’s Way

is a specific process designed to free your creativity, described in the book by Julia

Cameron, The Artist’s Way, A Course in Discovering and Recovering Your Creative Self.

Although you can work through the program alone, doing it with others provides support

and encouragement for this exhilarating, challenging, playful, rewarding work.

At The Artist’s Way retreats here at Full Circle Retreat you will have the opportunity to give focused attention to your

creative self; your true nature. Through experiential art-making and writing exercises, we will explore many of the

themes in the book. Creativity is something available to everyone, an experience that we can intentionally invite into

our lives. This retreat is an intensive, guided encounter with your own creativity. So no matter if you have started

The Artist’s Way at some point, or have never heard of it, this is an opportunity to practice some of the specific tools

and methods outlined in this process.

Join us in supporting yourself and others in “practicing the art of creative living.” “No matter what your age or your

life path, whether making art is your career or your hobby or your dream, it is not too late or too egotistical or too

selfish or too silly to work on your creativity.”--A quote from Julia Cameron’s inspiring book, The Artist’s Way.

Mid-Week Retreat: $175 for registrations before July 10th or with the companion workshop (*above). $195. after July 10th

*You can extend your Artist' Way retreat and come for the companion workshop:  "Art Materials: An Art Media Discovery Workshop" listed

directly above (August 1 and 2).

 

 

Musical Soul Journey and SoulCollage® Retreat Weekend

Deepening Into The Psyche Through Music and Art Making

August 7-9

Audrey Chowdhury

This is an opportunity to experience the power of music and art to unlock your inner

wisdom and activate your heart of compassion. Experience a "musical soul journey” in a

fully supported, sacred space followed by art making that continues, and concretizes the

experience. Art making will include creating mandalas and a SoulCollage® card.

Most people find that this retreat experience leaves them feeling more authentic,

connected to themselves, and better able to be effective in the world.

At the surface of our psyche we are individuals with a personal biography. At the depths

of our psyche we discover we are sacred, holistic beings, both human and divine. There are

layers in between that reveal amazing knowledge of who we are in the various dimensions of consciousness. These

dimensions of consciousness can be accessed through the musical journeying process called Integrative Breathwork.

Integrative Breathwork is a powerful healer that opens the psyche using the breath and evocative music. The

experience removes us from our ordinary state of consciousness, where we are anchored by how we see and hear.

By altering these factors, our egos "recede” allowing us to open to healing and often inspirational experiences.

These musical journeys unveil the psyche's treasures that lead us from fragmentation to wholeness. Many who

experience this sacred group work feel they have "come home" to their True Self.

Audrey Chowdhury received her Integrative Breathwork training at the Eupsychia Institute with Jacquelyn Small

and is a certified facilitator.

Limited to 8 participants. 

Weekend Retreat: $175 for registrations postmarked by July 10, $195 thereafter.

 

 

Writing Retreat: Writing A Way Home

Monday-Tuesday, August 10-11

Deb Biechler

Writing is a powerful tool to discover your own wisdom, truth and beauty. When you

give yourself over to the process, your pen becomes a road that connects you to your

deepest self and to others. During this two-day writing retreat, you will create a “seed

journal” of ideas to “grow” into writing. These seeds will come from your everyday

experiences and can be developed into one of the many genres or styles we will explore during our time together.

The retreat will include instruction, time to write, time to dream, time to relax and share. This empowering

workshop will nurture and reassure beginning writers as well as refresh and inspire writers who are experienced.

Individual consultations with the instructor will be available.

A one-credit course option is available through Viterbo University.

Please contact us if you are interested in this option.

Two-Day Workshop: $160--*$130 for those staying for The Artist’s Way Retreat Weekend (below).

One-Day: $100

9am-4pm each day.

 

 

Art As Spiritual Practice

August 14-16   Retreat Weekend

Kathleen Grittner

”The heart of the spiritual path is the longing to know and to be our true and

authentic self. This has been the motivation of thousands who have gone before

you and will come after you. The true self that we long for is who you really are.”

                                                                                                       Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche

Many spiritual traditions teach us that the peace, happiness and love we seek is

already within us and that infinite wisdom is always amoungst us. Eckhart Tolle

describes this as "the aliveness that is all around you no matter where you are.”

One way to practice becoming more aware and open to this “aliveness” is through the process of making art.

When we approach art making as a practice of listening and receiving, we invite an experience of the fullness

of the present moment.---True prayer is listening.

During this retreat weekend we will practice spontanious, process-oriented art making methods, that bypass the

planning, thinking mind and the ego’s desire to control the outcome. Combined with other contemplative practices,

such as simple breathing and movement meditations, we will explore some of the ways that we can connect with that

dimention of depth within ourselves, where our authenic self lives. As we integrate these tools for expression,

meditation and exploration into our everyday ordinary life, we continue to open ourselves to greater awareness,

clarity and balance in all aspects of our lives and to all that we are. No previous art experience required.

Materials provided. 

Retreat Weekend: $160.

*You can extend your retreat and stay for the companion workshop "Shrines and Altars" listed below (August 17-18).

 

 

Shrines and Altars: Collage/Assemblage

Monday-Tuesday, August 17-18

Kathleen Grittner

Through the process of collage and assemblage; finding, collecting and arranging, you

will create a shrine or altarpiece. The intention for your shrine will be your guide. Fill it

with things that make you happy and images that inspire you. Celebrating the

beautiful things of this earth remind us of our creator. Images of gods and goddess

remind us of the need to stay spiritually centered and of the qualities we aspire to.

Shrines and altars are a place to give thanks, and to honor our animal and spirit guides

and those who have been important and supportive to us on your life journey.

Start collecting images--personal photos, color photocopies, magazine pictures,

objects--small figurines and statues, toys, game pieces, keys, stones, twigs, feathers, sea treasures,

embellishments--buttons, beads, ribbon, glitter, decorative papers etc. Bring stuff you like and that has personal

meaning to you. You will need a container(s) to create your shrine in; such as a wooden box, old drawer, shadow

box frame, hard cover book, tins, etc. You will transform your collection into a beautiful and meaningful shrine.

Two-Day Workshop: $160--*$130 for those extending their Creativty Retreat (above).

One Days $100

 

 

Art As Medicine: Healing Mind, Body and Spirit

Wednesday-Thursday August 19-20

Kathleen Grittner

Medicine in the Native American tradition refers to “anything which brings personal

power, strength and understanding” This includes the healing of body, mind and of spirit.

Medicine is also “anything that improves one’s connection to the Great Mystery and to all

Life”. (from Medicine Cards-Jamie Sams and David Carson-Bear & Company). Making art can be one

of the “anythings”---medicine.

Images are the language of the soul, of our right brain, of our intuitive knowing, we

naturally respond to them. Inspired by the Native American tradition of Medicine Cards,

during this workshop you will create your own personal medicine cards. This art process

helps us to become more aware of the messages and wisdom offered to us everyday as we seek health, happiness,

and wholeness. Our images reflect to us what we know and what our spirits need to learn on this great human

adventure we call life.

”Power lies in the wisdom and understanding of one’s role in the Great Mystery, and in honoring every living thing as a teacher.”

*This workshop is a great companion workshop to Medicine Dolls (below). Come for both if you like.

Two-Day Workshop: $160--$130 for those staying for Medicine Dolls.

One-Day: $100

 

 

Medicine Dolls: Making Healing Dolls

August 21-23 Retreat Weekend

Barb Kobe

Dolls have been used for the purpose of healing in many cultures. The act of making a

doll can help you to heal at a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual level. When you

are physically ill, in pain, dealing with emotional issues, or challenged by a life

changing event, you can start to heal yourself with art by opening up to your inner

voices, listening to them, and allowing their messages to emerge. The essential process

of healing yourself with artmaking is one that involves moving through change so that

you become more conscious and restore your connection to your intuition and your soul.

This dollmaking experience will take you through a creative process toward a goal of

healing an aspect of yourself and/or your life. Your intention drives the process and keeps you focused. Your journal

becomes the record keeper and provides a place for you to dialog with your creations. Connect with your inner

wisdom, expand your intuitive, creative self and let yourself be restored at this retreat.

More about Barb and her work at: www.barbkobe.com 

Weekend Retreat: $175 for registrations postmarked by July 25, $200 thereafter.

 

 

Drum Making and Other Ancient Circles

September 11-13   Retreat Weekend

Lisa Gidlow-Moriarty and Kathleen Grittner

Handheld frame drums are one of the oldest musical instruments. The

rituals of the earliest known religions evolved around the beat of the frame

drum.Drumming remains a powerful spiritual experience.

Friday evening you will make your drum. Saturday, as the deerhide on our

drums is drying, we will explore other ancient circles such as the labyrinth

and the mandala. Both are forms of art and meditation practice. You will

have the opportunity to creatively experience these ancient circles and to paint your drum if you wish.

There is an outdoor labyrinth near the stream at Full Circle Retreat that you may walk any time during the weekend.

Saturday evening we will take our drum outdoors and drum around a fire. Join us in this celebration of life.

*Registration must be received by August 21st

Drum Materials: $60

Retreat Weekend: $160

 

 

Soft Pastels: Individual Workshops or Four-Day Retreat

Soft Pastels: An Introduction

Wednesday, September 16

Kay Brathol-Hostvet

Many students “fall in love” with pastels after taking this workshop! Soft

pastels are fun to use, colorful, versatile, immediate, and very expressive.

Kay will introduce you to this fascinating dry painting medium through a variety

of exercises on different papers. Learn how to use solvents and fixative to

enhance your images. You’ll complete three different works in this one-day

studio workshop, including a densely-colored painting on sanded paper.

Every workshop participant will experience ample personal attention as well as fun and positive group interaction.

A supply list will be sent to you; all paper for this introductory class will be provided by the instructor.

Material Fee $5

One-Day Workshop: $100

9am-4pm

 

Pastel Interpretations: All levels

Thursday, September 17

Kay Brathol-Hostvet

Soft pastel is a very adaptable medium and is perfect for learning different

painting techniques. In this studio workshop, you will do several different

interpretations from the same photographic reference. Each work in your

series will be quite unlike the others--you won’t believe you had it in you!

Consequently, you’ll learn which styles and techniques might work best for

your own artistic “vision.” Previous pastel experience is helpful but not

required. All paper is provided.

Material Fee $7

One-Day Workshop: $100

9am-4pm

*Sign up for both of these pastel workshops (September 16 & September 17) and take $20 off ($180 instead of $200).

 

Plein Air Painting In Soft Pastels: All Levels

Friday-Saturday, September 18-19

Kay Brathol-Hostvet

Rejoice in the glorious beauty of autumn and your creativity! We will paint

amoungst nature’s display of colors at Full Circle Retreat and Vernon

Vinyards. After our day of painting at the vineyard, we can relax and

further enjoy the bounty of harvest time at Vernon Vineyards wine tasting

bar. Pastel is perfect for depicting the various textures and luscious colors

of the vineyard, gardens and landscape and is a very portable medium so

it is ideal for plein air work. We will use the studio as our home base, then head outside to work directly from nature.

Kay will demonstrate several techniques that are especially helpful for outdoor work. You will complete a few

small paintings that can be used as studies for larger studio works or might stand alone as plein-air masterpieces!

Some paper will be provided. A supply list will be sent to you.

One-Day Workshop $100. Both Days $160. 9am-4pm each day

To view more of Kay’s work, please visit: www.kaybratholhostvet.com

More about Vernon Vineyards at: www.vernonvineyards.com

*All four days of the Pastel Workshop Series, September 16-19, for $340.  9am-4pm each day.

 

 

Songwriting Workshop with L.J. Booth

September 25-27   Retreat Weekend

How do songs get written? There are about as many ways to write them as there

are songs. Songs are an intersection of story and music that has no address, no

formula, and no timetable. This workshop is a time to let the playful writer in you

put some of your stories to music. Learn a way of writing and of playing music

that spawns melodies and images that have not yet been joined, not yet been

sung. The ability to play an instrument isn't required for the workshop (although,

if you have one, please bring it along). All writing experience levels welcome.

L. J. Booth is an extraordinary songwriter, guitarist and singer. He writes songs on the guitar, piano, bass, and the

strumstick. L.J. writes powerful and deeply moving lyrics, adds phenomenal guitar flourishes and surprising flights of

musical fancy to push the boundaries of folk.

His first CD, YARNS was released in 1987, Sing Out  magazine said, "L.J. is one hell of a yarn spinner and singer -

this is simply great music". After his 2002 release, THE OX THAT PULLS THE CART, Performing Songwriter magazine

declared,"L.J. Booth is as literate as they come. As a lyricist, he has the light touch of Lyle Lovett, the unabashed

honesty of Leonard Cohen and the sprawling, joyous life of Walt Whitman. The plainness of his imagery and the

economy of his phrasing is only made more effective by his glittering guitar parts and the simple grace of his songs.”

L.J. has recently released his fourth CD, Alveoli. www.ljbooth.com

*Sign up early, this workshop is limited to 12 participants.

Retreat Weekend: Workshop begins Friday evening, continues Saturday 9am-4pm, and Sunday 9am-1pm:  $160 

You may attend the Workshop on Saturday only, if you prefer (9am-4pm):  $130

Workshop fee includes admission to the concert (TBA).

 

 

Creativity Retreat

Thursday-Friday-Saturday, October 1-3

Kathleen Grittner will be one of the featured instructors at The Peninsula Art School of Door County,

during a three day Creativity Retreat.

For more information and to register, go to: www.peninsulaartschool.com

 

 

Private Group Retreats can be coordinated at Full Circle Retreat upon request

For a complete list of Private Group Retreats click:  Private Group Retreats

 

 

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