I had a wonderful time in New Symrna Beach Florida at the Focus on Fiber Retreat
I met some wonderful talented, encouraging and most of all FUN people there.
Bella stole the show! Thanks Tommy for bringing Bella to visit us!
I ended up giving an impromptu demo of how to make paper/fabric. Afterward, Marion Shirk, the origami expert, presented me with a little paper purse she made with a piece of it.
I happened to have some beads; she had some wire to contribute and I was able to customize and finish it there on the spot. Now, we had the original crowd who watched the demo wanting to learn how to make the purse! Okay, time for the second demo! I think the origami was much more challenging to do than making the paper/fabric. Somewhere between the mountains and the monkeys ears, I fumbled around a managed to make a "beginner" purse; no where near as polished as Marion's!
Several impromptu things happened at the retreat. We danced to tribal music outdoors in the amphitheater. The breezes were blowing right along with the drums. It was a new experience for me....not one I was completely sure about, but one that definitely opened my mind to using my body in a creative way. We all were amazed at how much better we felt mentally and physically afterward.....and, hungry! Now the food was actually the best part! WEll, almost the best. It was a close second to the art.
We also had a wonderful yoga instructor visit everyday and did simple yoga outside as well. She also provided massage which I definately took advantage of.
We worked independently in open studios with huge tall windows that made you feel like you were working outdoors. There was only natural (jungle) foliage visible through the windows.
Handyed fabric
Hand dyed wool by: Janet Bernhardt
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