San Juan Island

Exploring Creativity Retreat

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Reignite Your Creative Spark in the Serene San Juan Islands!

Join us for an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. This exclusive retreat offers more than just pastel painting sessions; it's a transformative experience designed to reignite your passion for creativity and unlock your true artistic potential.

Here's What Awaits You:

  • Daily Painting Sessions: Immerse yourself in the joy of pastel painting, both in our studio and amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the San Juan Islands. I will be demoing in pastels, but all artistic mediums are welcome.

  • Deep Dive into Creativity: Experience a profound exploration of your creative drive, tapping into your intuition and technical skills to unleash your full artistic expression.

  • Find Your Joy: Let go of inhibitions, embrace freedom, and rediscover the pure joy of creating. Get inspired by the tranquil beauty of the San Juan Islands as you reconnect with your inner artist.

  • Midweek Excursion: Indulge in a day of inspiration as we visit Lopez Island artists' studios and learn about sustainable farming practices. Plus, enjoy a delightful farm-to-table meal crafted from local, organic produce.

  • Personalized Guidance: Benefit from one-on-one instruction, engaging demos, and enlightening lectures aimed at enhancing your design and composition skills. Learn to become a better pastel artist!

  • Multi-Dimensional Exploration: Delve into various creative mediums, including drawing, writing, movement, and group discussions, fostering a holistic approach to self-expression.

Awaken your creative spirit and immerse yourself in the beauty of the San Juan Islands. Join us for five enriching days of artistic growth, connection, and rejuvenation. Let your creativity flow freely as you rediscover your unique voice and find inspiration in the world around you.

Don't miss this opportunity to nurture your artistic soul and reclaim your creative mojo. Reserve your spot today and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery!

Lodging Options

This year I am offering lodging add-ons because housing books up months in advance. For your convenience I have pre-reserved these homes for students use or share. Take a look at the options knowing that each home has 2 bedrooms.

Here are some sites to choose from:

Seaview Condo: 2 bedrooms available, $206/night per bedroom

Sunny Island-Style Home: 2 bedrooms available, $224/night per bedroom

O'Farm Estate: Three charming choices on a beautiful, private, pastural 5 acre estate; 1.5. miles to ferry and village on Fisherman Bay Road. This will be one of the sites we will paint at and enjoy a farm to table meal during the retreat. A great place to stay for the week! Contact O’Farm via email or phone for reservations.

  • Farmhouse: Sleeps 1-3 people $225/night for one person, $25/night each additional person

  • North Cabin: Sleeps 1 person $125/night (Shared kitchen with Farmhouse)

  • Bunkhouse Glamping: 1-4 people $75/night/person, separate bathroom facilities in nearby Barn/Studio.

Ferry Details

All ferries to San Juan islands will depart from Anacortes, WA. Check the schedule for Anacortes/San Juan Islands. Lopez Island is the first island stop (approx. 40 min crossing). There are roughly 8 sailings/day with only a few in the evening so I would recommend reserving a spot for the time you would like to go. Summer in the San Juan islands get VERY busy. If you do not know your exact plans yet, you can make multiple reservations ($10 deposit) and cancel within 1 day prior without penalty. With a reservation, arrive within 1 hour before boarding. Reservation tickets are roundtrip so you do not need to make a leave the island.  

You need to make a reservation on July 21 ferry to Lopez Island if you are coming across in a vehicle. You can extend your stay to however long you like,  just be aware that during peak summer season Sunday ferries can have a multi hour wait to leave the island as there is a quota of how many cars each ferry can hold. I always encourage people try to catch the first two ferries off the island to assure not waiting in long afternoon lines. 

Here is the link to the best times to take the ferry. They are still just listing the winter schedule, so watch for the summer schedule to come out. Here is where you can find the schedule.

If you are traveling from out of state and flying into Seattle area, you will fly into SEATAC airport just South of Seattle. You can rent a car there. It is approximately a 2 hour drive from the airport, depending on traffic to the ferry line in Anacortes, WA.