The Alchemy of Ink
Join Elizabeth Schowachert and Gabriela Sanchez for a once-in-a-lifetime creative retreat in the enchanting wilderness of Montana's Flathead Valley. Dive into the mesmerizing world of ink, brushes, and paper while connecting deeply with nature. Let the magic of "The Alchemy of Ink" unlock your artistic potential and inspire your soul.
Meet the Artists:
Elizabeth Schowachert: Based in Montana, Elizabeth's artistry is deeply rooted in the breathtaking landscapes that surround her. She's known for her unique approach to art, where she incorporates found materials from her environment into her brush and tool designs. With over a decade of teaching experience, Elizabeth is a master of Sumi-e brushwork, encaustic monotype creation, and crafting distinctive fiber and silicone tools. Her work is a testament to the profound connection between art and nature.
Gabriela Sanchez: A trained Textile Designer and Visual Communicator, Gabriela's art is an intimate form of calligraphy, weaving together fragments of life's moments and memories. Nature serves as her muse, and her creations mirror the organic and irregular lines found in the natural world. Gabriela's creative process involves a variety of materials, including wax, resins, inks, pigments, oils, and solvents.
Workshop Highlights:
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Ink Mastery: Under the expert guidance of Elizabeth and Gabriela, explore the versatile world of ink, including India ink and various mediums. Gain profound insights into these remarkable materials, discovering their unique properties and limitless creative potential.
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Create Your Own Brushes: Immerse yourself in the art of crafting mark-making tools and brushes from found materials. Establish a profound connection between nature and your artistic expression as you create custom-made brushes that will become extensions of your creativity, allowing you to make distinct marks on paper.
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Paper as Your Canvas: Guided by expert calligrapher Gabriela Sanchez, learn to embrace paper as your canvas. Witness the transformation of blank sheets into visual narratives that capture the essence of the moment. Express your emotions, thoughts, and experiences through this ancient medium.
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Variety of Brushes: Elizabeth will provide a selection of brushes, including large format sumi-e style brushes meticulously crafted by her. These brushes will help you unleash your creativity and produce captivating works of art.
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Zen Painting and Mindfulness: Experience the meditative aspect of art creation with Gabriela. Learn zen painting techniques that promote mindfulness and a profound connection to your creative process. Discover how the act of painting can be a form of meditation, allowing you to express the intangible and convey the profound through your brushwork.
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Nature as Inspiration: Montana's Flathead Valley offers stunning natural beauty. Venture into the wilderness on immersive outings to picturesque spots like Flathead Lakes North Shore and The Wild Mile. Infuse your art with the rhythms and cycles of the natural world.
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Personal Studio Visit: Gain valuable insights into Elizabeth's artistic process during an intimate visit to her home studio. Engage in discussions about materials, techniques, and the philosophy that drives her artistry.
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New Friends and an Art Tribe: Connect with fellow participants who share your passion for creativity. Forge new friendships and become part of an art tribe that will continue to inspire and support your artistic journey long after the workshop concludes.
- Integrate Encaustic Monotype Images with Your Inkwork: Participants will have the unique opportunity to work on Elizabeth's double hotbox using a wide array of her silicone tools. Elizabeth will also generously share her process using carbon in her encaustic monotype prints. This fusion of techniques will enable participants to seamlessly integrate images created on the hotbox with the ink work they develop during the retreat. It's a chance to explore new dimensions in your artistry and expand your creative horizons.
Your Retreat Sanctuary: The Nest
Nestled in the heart of Montana's pristine wilderness, The Nest comfortably accommodates over 20 guests, providing beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere. You'll enjoy quality cotton sheets, plush towels, WiFi, Roku TV, and all the necessities for a comfortable stay.
The property itself offers a wealth of opportunities. Alongside the creative workshops, you can explore hiking trails, indulge in shopping, try your hand at fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, play a round of golf, savor local dining, or catch a theater performance in historic downtown Bigfork. With personal access to the Swan River and spacious decks for relaxation, the property is perfect for plein air painting during open periods, making it an artist's haven.
Payment Information:
- Workshop Cost: $2,800 (Early Bird Pricing of $2,500 available until March 1, 2024)
- Secure your spot with a non-refundable deposit of $500.00.
- Retreat Dates: September 17 - 22, 2024 (6 nights accommodations)
Join Us for 'The Alchemy of Ink' Retreat!
Reserve your place today and embark on a transformative journey of creativity, inspiration, and self-discovery amidst the wonders of Montana's pristine wilderness. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the world of ink, brushes, and paper and become part of an unforgettable artistic adventure. Connect with nature and your inner artist in a way you've never imagined.
