Ahhh... I have just recently returned from one of my favorite retreat experiences ever. Artful Journey is the creation of Cindy O'Leary who had a dream of creating a retreat in a very nurturing, relaxing, beautiful environment with outstanding instructors. Cindy's dream has come true as she just completed her second, successful Artful Journey in the redwoods outside the artsy town of Los Gatos, California. The detail and love that Cindy put into creating this event was very evident from the moment of arrival and being gifted with these beautiful, hand-sewn welcome kits; home-baked, pecan chocolate chip cookies for afternoon break; and a wine and appetizer reception to name just a few. Come along with me as I share a little bit about my experience.
"Creativity flourishes in a place of safety and acceptance."
"Fulfilling our creativity is a sacred trust.""Violating someone's creativity violates a sacred trust."
"Creative feedback must build on strengths, never focus on weaknesses"
"All creative ideas are children who deserve our protection.""Creative feedback must support the creative child, never shame it"
"Creativity grows among friends, withers among enemies.""All creative success requires creative failure."
See the santos doll Stephanie is kissing goodbye???? Well, she (LeeLee) now resides in my living room. Yes, I just had to have her. Stephanie will be teaching at Artful Journey in February 2011 and sharing her new passion for everything plaster....including the making of her santos dolls!!!
-Richard Salley's class (I'm on the right)-
-Richard Salley's class (I'm on the right)-"Success occurs in clusters and is born in generosity."
I had the pleasure of being in Richard Salley's class. I had so much fun learning some of Richard's unveiled secrets and basking in his generous, relaxed teaching style. Thank you, Richard! Here are the few pieces I completed in Richard's class. Can you believe that the foundation of both pieces is a baby food jar lid?
-Hinged Locket....of course, I had to incorporate my bling!-
-and, of course, an 1800's porcelain German doll's head had to grace my cuff bracelet....along with the bling a ling. -The line-up for the Artful Journey in Febraury 2011 is up and registration starts soon. I invite you to peruse the offerings and stand ready for registration to begin. I know the word is getting spread about Cindy's fantastic retreat experience and classes will fill quickly.
Tootles
Diana
*Quotes from - Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way"
11 comments:
Beautiful and inspiring...like you!
Glad to see you are having a great summer!!!
Hugs,
Margaret B
Oh, Diana...looks like you had a great time at a retreat I know nothing about. But, I see ALL of my favorite teachers were there! I will take one of Richard's class' at Adorn Me, and I am soooo looking forward to it!
Your hinged locket is gorgeous, and that cuff is WOW! I have to see that on your arm =))
xoxox
Looks like an amazing time! What wonderful teachers! I grew up in Los Gatos - it's one of my favorite places!
It does look as if you had a fantastic time. I love the locket necklace - lucky you to take a class with Richard Salley!
Thanks for sharing!
Wow, Diana! It seems like a dreamy place. I want to be there ... like now! You made some beautiful work.
Hi Diana, these are beautiful! Love them all, they have such a Diana feel to them. Great job. Will have to go with you one day to experience that wonderful retreat. Miss you. Miss Maggie loves her new toy. Hugs, Riki
Your retreat sounded fabulous..and with such incredible instructors. Your pieces from Richard's classes turned out just amazing....love sparkly touches you added!
Hi Diana!
I had so much fun too. This is Lori your table mate. I must admit I felt a bit "small" with all the wonderful things you were doing. The east coast is a bit hot and hard to get use to after the wonderful weather we had in CA.Hope to meet up with you in another class!
Leave it to you to make a baby food jar lid elegant and sparkly! I know you must have had a wonderful time. Next time...
Fabulous jewels, dahling! So sparkly and magical. Cindy's AAJ retreat is truly a treat and one I'm so glad I had the opportunity to attend last February. I'm ready to go again!!!
wow, i would love to have an opportunity like this. your pieces are stunning!
Post a Comment