New Year's Res-ART-lutions

Often we think about things we'd like to accomplish in a new year such as... lose weight, eat healthier, re-organize the attic, get a new job, give up smoking, take that trip to Europe... and so on. But rarely do we actually think about what we'd like to accomplish creatively.

We'd be a little biased if we told you that attending the fabulous, life-changing, mixed-media Art Retreat that is Art & Soul should be on your list, but hey — we know what a blast it is! But really — we'd love to hear what your artistic goals are for the new year. Did you want to finish up all your UFO's (UnFinished Objects)? Start a journal? Maybe you're going to pick up knitting. Perhaps you got a how-to book or art supplies for Christmas and you're going to try out some new projects. Have you always wanted to take up painting? Jewelry-making? Sewing? Dollmaking? Maybe you'll even be taking some classes at Art & Soul where you'll be learning something new!

Whatever your plans, we'd love for you to share them with us here. Put it out there for the whole world to see. Make that promise to yourself — to put or keep creativity in your life. And have a fantastic New Year!

Cheers to a happy, healthy, artistic 2012!
~ Glenny xoxo

Merry Craftmas and Happy Glue Year!

When the hustle and bustle of retail extravaganzas and big box store bonanzas has become the new norm, handmade gifts and cards sometimes get lost in the shuffle. But not here in the creative realm of Art & Souler's, I bet! I'm sure you crafted a darling little card, or hand made some gifts this year. Maybe you prepared an amazing table setting for guests, or decorated the house with extra flair. No matter how you expressed your creativity this season — be proud of yourself for keeping the true spirit of art and individuality in the Holidays! 

And thank you all so much for your support of Art & Soul Retreats. Each and every one of you! Students and teachers alike. Taking time out to replenish your soul in a creative way is no longer a luxury — it's a necessity!  And I appreciate you choosing to play and have fun with us year after year. You are part of our success and I wish you the Happiest of Holidays and the Most Creative New Year Ever!

~ Glenny xo

BONUS! It's Easy As... 1-2-3-4!

 
That's right Art & Soul'ers... we're offering a special bonus if you sign up for 4 or more full-day workshops at our Portland and Virginia events! You'll benefit with early entry into our Vendor Extravaganza — you'll get in a whole hour early — Woohoo! And we'll give you a drink voucher — perhaps a little vino to help loosen those purse strings? Ha! Like you all need any help, LOL!

And, all you nice little elves out there — don't forget that it's not too late to get a gift certificate for the artistic people on your holiday gift list. You can make your gift for any denomination. And maybe we're a little biased, but we think Art & Soul makes the bestest gift ever! E-mail Glenny at glenny@artandsoulretreat.com and she'll get you taken care of asap!

Take Me To The River....

Well... that's exactly what we're going to do! Because next year's Portland Art & Soul event will be taking place at the Red Lion on the River in Jantzen Beach. Imagine the serenity of being right on the Columbia River... with spectacular views of the waterway right outside your room, the restaurants, and even the classrooms! This resort-style property is the perfect location for letting go of the everyday doldrums and diving into your creative adventure!

Besides the scenic location, one of the great advantages to this venue is that everything will be in one place! No more waking up early to catch a shuttle to that workshop in the other hotel. You don't even have to leave the Red Lion if you don't want to!

Red Lion's free airport shuttle will pick you up and drop you off. When you check in you'll find the accommodations simply delightful, with each room featuring a balcony view (some overlooking the river), microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker and in-room safe. Your stay includes a free breakfast and happy hour beverage. Rates are $129 for a standard guestroom, $139 for a river view, and suites are $179 & $189. Single and double-bed rooms are available... so come for solitude or share your stay with a creative friend!

At the Red Lion on the River, you'll find a friendly, exuberant staff to welcome you into this relaxing atmosphere. As hosts of our event, they've set up a Hospitality Bar right at our registration area. Grab a snack or a refreshment when you need it in-between classes or for a quick pick me up (if you've ever been to Art & Soul, you know what we mean!).

On site, you'll have plenty of room to relax, stretch out, or even take a stroll on their more than one mile long paved walking path along the river. And when you're hungry or need some libations, head over to the Red Lion's own Jantzen Beach Bar & Grill, offering a stylish, upbeat atmosphere and boasting one of the best views on the Columbia River. Known as one of the happiest lounges around, they have 2 Happy Hours offered from 3-6 AND 9pm-11pm! And Executive Chef Lorenzo Gonsalves has quite a background... we're looking forward to having some delicious meals here! And, if you do need to get out or want to take care of meals on your own, there's a Grocery store nearby as well as the Jantzen Beach Shopping Mall.... and of course... Portland!

We are so looking forward to this new location and taking a respite from the workaday world. Remember how excited you were about recess when you were a little kid? Well... welcome to recess for creative adults! Now that you've heard about our new accommodations, check out the list of workshops for Portland Art & Soul 2012 and plan your escape today!