New Instructor Added to Portland! Introducing Rebekah Meier...

We are so very excited to announce the addition of one very talented instructor to our Portland Art & Soul roster... Rebekah Meier!

Rebekah is an established author, designer, and teacher in the mixed-media and fabric collage community. Her books, magazine features, and product development exemplify her signature style of combining fabrics and fibers into beautiful collage assemblages. Rebekah is the author of the best selling books, Fabric Art Collage, 40+ Mixed Media Techniques and More Fabric Art Collage. 

Here's what she's offering this Spring at our 2015 Portland event. Check out these lovely layered cloth and paper creations!

Collage Fabric Painting - Friday, March 6th 

Students will learn techniques to create their own custom designed fabric. Layering the applications of color, texture, design will be covered. Instruction will also be given on how to create foam stamps and using found objects for printing. The one of a kind designed fabric will then be used to create a no-sew wallet.

Ripped, Peeled, and Dripped Paper Relic Collage - Saturday, March 7th

Students will create a canvas wall art collage. Techniques will be step by step, allowing students to build up textures and interesting designs. If you like ripping, peeling back layers, and random application of paint, then this class is for you.

Fiber Art Tapestry - Sunday, March 8th

Students will learn a layering technique that incorporates both fabric and paper. Each student will go home with a small sampler incorporating embroidery and lots of texture.

Pretty awesome stuff, huh!

Registration is now open for Portland Art & Soul 2015, as well as all of our 2015 events! For information and registration, visit our website at www.artandsoulretreat.com.

VIRGINIA... V is for...

Well folks, our Virginia Beach Art & Soul Retreat is just around the corner! So I thought we could regale you with a little VIRGINIA word play, and at the same time let you know why we love this venue so much. Here we go...

V is for the Vast array of workshops we have to offer.

From playing with paper, fabric, fiber, clay, metal and any vintage object you can think of, we've got something to delight every mixed media maven out there!

I is for our amazing Instructors.

Hand picked by our staff, our classes are taught by the most amazing people at the top of their industry. Several of our instructors have published books, won awards, appear in galleries, and sell their finished goods because their work is the best in the business and because they're in such high demand!

R is for Relaxing and Recharging at our Retreat.

Okay, so there's only one R, but these three go together like peas in a pod. Not only do you get to break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but you get to recharge your creative batteries at our mixed media art retreat! And let's not forget that this venue is right on the beach, with an oceanfront view from every room. Now that's relaxing!

G is for Guidance.

You're not in this alone. Your desire to explore new avenues of art and expand your creativity is all you need to bring to Art & Soul. Our teachers, our staff, our shop owners and other attendees will hold your hand the entire way. There's nothing to fear but not stepping out of your comfort zone!

I is for Innovative.

Our workshops showcase some of the most unique techniques and wow-factor projects. From collage to jewelry, art dolls to book making, and everything in-between, the art you'll make while you're here will impress everyone... including yourself!

N is for New.

Each year we have new workshops, several new instructors, new projects, new attendees, new themes, new goodies in our stores, and new old stuff (and new new stuff) for you to sift through at our Vendor Extravaganza. There are so many new opportunities at each event, every year, that you'll never run out of new stuff to learn or do!

I is for... another I? That's 3! Let's make this I for Imagination.

Because that's what you get to use when you come to Art & Soul! Combine like-minded people, supplies galore, interesting mixed media tools, and inspirational instructors... and you cannot help but set your imagination in motion! So put on your thinking crown, and come join us!

A is for Activities.

There is never a dull moment at Art & Soul! In fact, there's very little time for not being creative. There's eating and showers and such, but otherwise, we'll keep you busy! We've got an opening night party. We have day classes and night classes. We've got an on-site store open every day. An incredible Vendor Night with original art and items to re-purpose for sale. We've got contests. And giveaways. And demos. And places to create in your spare time. We even have some impromptu gatherings and have been known to host a pajama party or two! Oh, and that gorgeous beach to walk on any time of night or day.

So whatever your delight, and no matter how you spell it, VIRGINIA Art & Soul will light up your creativity and fill up your soul. We've got so much to offer, won't you come join us? For information and registration, visit us at artandsoulretreat.com.

Virginia Beach Art & Soul

September 29 - October 5, 2014

Virginia Beach Resort Hotel

See you there! It's only a couple weeks away!

Valentine's Dog Day Afternoon...

Say hello to my not-so-little friend!

I have a new dog. 

Three weeks ago, we had a high speed car chase with a stolen car down our street.  The thieves ditched the car and, took off on foot. The police brought in dogs and began a house-to-house search.

Katie dog. Curious and adorable? Yes. Ferocious? Not so much.

I was terrified... knowing that Katie wouldn't alert me to any unusual noise.  So, I decided to adopt a big dog. Cara, a Giant Schnauzer, arrived on Monday. So how's it going? Well.... here's where we were on Day 2 in the new life of Cara and Glenny:

• We both slept soundly last night... after a nervous day for each of us.
• Having Cara and property that is only surrounded by an invisible fence, means Glenny is taking long walks in the woods.  At an early hour. (Cara will not be introduced to the fence until she feels "at home").
• Kitties that were hidden all day and evening yesterday, decided to make a cautious appearance.  I held Cara while my friend Liz assured Tillie cat that Cara was not a threat.  Never one to trust a human, Tillie gave Cara a quick swat on the nose.  Cara now gives all three of them a WIDE path.  Kitties rule!
• Cara is very goofy...which I love.  After breakfast, she picked up Katie's dish and brought it to me..not sure what she was saying!  
• Just got to get the potty training down....

So far, so good. Did I mention I'm in love? Ahhhh, those furry, four legged babies. Love them all.

Happy Valentines to all my furry and non-furry friends and family!

Glenny
xoxox