As we find our way out of several years of turmoil and change, many creatives are seeking something more active, something healing, something life-changing. Something that allows us to reconnect with the heart of our creativity.

Life seems to get busier and busier each year for many of us, so the importance of taking time for ourselves has never been greater. Equally, when we live life on autopilot, we often lose sense of what really matters to us and the values we want to live by.

For creative women, our creativity is both the source of lighting up our lives and the balm to the healing we crave.

The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest.

I recently heard this quote from Brother David Steindl-Rast. “The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest. The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness. You’re so exhausted because you can’t be wholehearted at what you’re doing…”

When we are ‘chief in charge of everything’, there is no daylight, no space to be, and no room to find your purpose again.

So what to do?

Withdrawing from activities or other people, with the aim of taking a rest, might seem like a good idea, but it can leave us isolated and without a feeling of connection in the long run. On the other hand, throwing ourselves into classes, courses, or commitments can push us toward burnout.

A creative retreat can offer space for both renewal and invigoration, with the best retreats sending you home with more creative energy, not less.

An art retreat as a kick-start for your creativity.

When it’s too challenging to take the time and space to paint at home, a painting retreat can be a great way to ignite the fire to get going again. And if art materials are included, it’s a great way to test the waters without the costly investment of getting the whole set-up at home.

Laughter as the best medicine.

When a group of women choose the same retreat as you, in the same beautiful location, and with the same enthusiasm for your favourite artist, there’s already a good chance they are the kind of women you will enjoy spending time with. Fun and laughter are a huge part of a retreat’s success.

First Off

What is the difference between a painting holiday, a painting workshop and a painting retreat?

Are you looking for a Painting Workshop or a Painting Retreat?

Naturally, a painting workshop will focus on painting and technique. A painting retreat will offer more than basic accommodation and a painting schedule. If you are looking for personal growth and creative development as well as tuition or to kick start your process, then a painting retreat is going to hold that space. But make sure to choose a facilitator and an itinerary built to deliver that purpose.

What to consider when choosing a Creative Retreat

Will you be painting on this retreat?

Although you are likely to choose an art retreat because you love the the artist’s work. You are unlikely to learn much from them unless you can put what you are learning from them into place by painting yourself. It is also worth noting that not every artists is also a good teacher. Try to find artists who interact with their students as well as demonstrating techniques. You will learn a lot in those retreats.

Is the artist a good facilitator?

Just because you like someone’s art does not mean that they have the skills to run a good retreat. Check to see if your retreat host has run retreats before. Have they taught before? Are there testimonials from people who have had good experiences with them in the context of retreats?

How much is ‘done for you’??

How much of the experience is organised for you? You do not want to take on too much of the organising/booking yourself. It can be exhausting and lead to a lot of stress. Opt for retreats with a carefully curated itinerary, apart from just the painting sessions, including at least some meals and some free time. Remember that aim is that you return home refreshed.

Is the retreat suited to solo travellers?

If you are travelling alone, make sure that the accommodation type suits you. You might want group accommodation to help make friends, or you might prefer a room of your own to take chill time. Don’t underestimate the art of a good facilitator to include solo travellers and bring groups together.

Does the budget suit you?

There are many kinds of retreats. Some are in fact more like painting holidays.

What is and is not included in the fee?

Accommodation, at least some meals, Painting tuition, a facilitated programme with the artist/leader.

Accommodation standards may vary as there can be a trade-off between location and facilities. The word ‘Luxury’ may refer to what is included in the itinerary rather than the accommodation standard. Additional elements may include full board, special dining experiences, evening entertainment, and excursions, including transport to/from excursions; some retreats may also include art materials, in-studio or en plein air setups.

What is usually not included:

Airfare, airport transfers, alcohol, travel/health insurance.

Travelling with paints. Are Materials Included?

Travelling with art materials can be a nightmare. Most airlines have restrictions on paints and solvents that you can bring on board. Easels and other materials can be heavy and cumbersome. Remember that the aim of the art retreat is for you to come home replenished, not exhausted, so look for retreats that include art materials like paints, solvents, and easels so make your life easier.

art retreats are like a boot camp for creativity.

The goal standard is to grow as a painter while also making real connections with other artists, having the time of your life, and visiting gorgeous locations all over the world. Then, when you return home, you’ll have all sorts of great ideas, inspiration, and new friendships, and you’ll feel encouraged to make even more space for your creativity so you can keep going strong!

Take advantage of this amazing opportunity and claim your spot in the Light up Your Light Creative Painting Retreat with Ró now.

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