Upcoming Workshop- Introduction to Encaustic!

Intro to Encaustic Painting
Sunday, January 17th, 12pm-4pm

Learn the ancient art of encaustic painting! Encaustic is the use of beeswax and damar resin melted together and combined with dry pigments to create a unique painting medium. This paint is applied hot/molten and manipulated with a direct heat source. It makes for a lovely layered image into which objects and photographs can be added. If you've seen a Jasper Johns painting then you've seen an encaustic painting!

This class will cover a brief history of encaustic, supplies and where to buy them, setting up, basic encaustic painting including fusing, embedding objects, and creating texture, as well as cleaning up, and caring for your paintings. Participants will complete 1-2 small paintings. No painting experience necessary. Open to ages 15 and up. (private classes available upon request)

$70, all supplies included. Feel free to bring along objects to incorporate (dried natural objects, paper, and photographs on plain paper work well)

Instructor: Jamie Ribisi-Braley, Manchester, ME

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

A perfect way to start your New Year!

Meditation in Motion "MAGIC STEPS" - let's dance
Sunday, January 10th, 10am - 12pm

From many ancient cultures archaic dancing sequences have been handed down, which have direct impact on our consciousness and our abilities of perception. To practice them is a form of meditation in motion, which opens the door to a conscious experience of the unity of body, mind, and soul. The roots of theses magic steps are thousands of years old.

They address human archetypes which are hardly lived anymore in our modern times, as they are so devoid of conscious rituals.

These movement sequences are quite easy to learn and open the door to a space beyond our every day worries and the constant struggle with our past and our future. This seminar is an invitation to deal with your own being, physical body, and originality.

A part of the training will be accompanied by live music and each dancer has the opportunity to work on the connection of rhythm, voice, and dance. This workshop is wonderful for all levels. Be prepared to move!

$25, students should wear loose, comfortable clothing.

Instructor: Joao Carlos Bordallo, Portland, ME
Joao Carlos Bordallo is an instructor of Movement Concept and the Brazilian martial art, Capoeira. He has trained in Capoeira for thirty-three years and was honored with his master’s belt, achieving the title of “Mestre,” in 1995. His work is a unique combination of martial art, dance and meditation that blends balance, agility, strength, music and mindfulness. Joao’s work is inspired by his training in Sufism in Turkey and Germany, and his study of Butoh in Japan. He has traveled as a teacher and creative instructor to Asia, Africa, Europe and America.

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Rescheduled due to snow...Scrubby goodness!

Natural Body Scrub & Bath Salt Workshop *new date!*
Wednesday, December 16th, 6pm-7pm

Create an assortment of all natural body scrubs & bath salts- great for yourself or for gift-giving. You will leave the workshop with 3 finished 8oz containers of your own mixtures of body scrubs and/or bath salts (more containers may be purchased at the class). Scrubs will be made from a base of sugar or salt and feature your choice of ingredients including: pumpkin, coffee, almond & orange extracts, lemon balm, essential oils, and much more. All ages are welcome- make this a family event!

$20 includes all supplies

Instructor: Joy Ribisi, Manchester, ME
Joy M. Ribisi originally hails from Long Island, NY and now lives in Manchester, Maine where she's living out her dreams of running an artists' retreat in her 1860s farmhouse. Joy is co-owner of Sweetland Retreat.

Some of the plant ingredients used in this workshop were grown right here at Sweetland Retreat!

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Dyeing to Hoop!

Make Your Own Tie Dye
Saturday December 5th, 10am-12pm

You are never to young or old to learn to tie dye, Lizzy have done instruction for ages 4-80! Age has no place in this adventure. There is something special about seeing people creating their own artwork.

She will provide everything needed for the completed project. It is a great time and students get something they have created to take home. Each participant will be able to choose the design they wish to make and will learn how to tie the shirt up for that design. Each will bring home a finished product that will need to process for 24 hours. Instructions will be sent home for the wash out and end processing.

$15 includes all supplies (indicate t-shirt size at registration)

Instructor: Linda "Lizzy" Kennedy aka Lizzyoos, and Kyndmamma, lives in the woods of Maine. She has two grown sons and a granddaughter. She is a Tie Dye professional, a music lover, promoter, Radio Dj (wmhb.org), Homegrown Network Rep, an original Phunky Bitch. She spends her days dying new projects, making jewelry, hula hoops, reviewing music, and just enjoying nature. You can find her on the Maine music scene and at many of the summer festivals vending as Lizzyoos. Check out Lizzyoos.net

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now! & make a day of it...come to hula making, too! ....

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Hula Hoop Crafting
Saturday December 5th, 1:30pm-2:30pm

Come join us and make your own personalized hoop to use for fun and exercise! Hula hooping is national past time that is great for young and old. All supplies will be provided (included in the supply fee) and you can decorate your hoop with many colors of tape and even sparkly tape too. Open to all ages, great family activity!

$25 includes all supplies

Instructor: Linda "Lizzy" Kennedy

Make a day of it...come to both classes!

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Perfect for Holiday Gifts!!

Falling Into Craftiness- Leaf-Printing on Fabric
Saturday November 21st, 2pm - 3:30pm

Leaf-printing is a fun and easy printmaking method. Using fabric screen printing ink and real leaves, students will create unique, one-of-a-kind fabric art on tote bags, clothing, scarves, or whatever they would like to try! We will also try leaf-printing on paper to make some unique gift tags or cards.

There is NO experience necessary to jump right into this craft, so NO WORRIES! It is easy and fun and yields awesome results no matter what your printmaking experience is.

Kids welcome! This craft is suitable for ages 5 and up, but we do need a parent/guardian there to work with their child. For each parent who registers for the class, one child 10 and under can attend for free.

$20-- Provided by instructor: screen printing ink, brushes, brayers, 1 small 8" x 9" tote bag to print on. Students need to bring: Fabric to print on for additional projects- this can be t-shirts, scarves, shawls, socks, tote bags, table runner, skirts, etc. The fabric should be smooth (i.e. no terry cloth or knits), and fairly light in color to allow the ink to show up well.

Instructor: Grace Kendall, Litchfield, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Card Making!

Quick Card Technique
Wednesday November 11th, 6pm - 8pm

Join Lorna and Maryanne for an evening of fun with cardmaking! You will learn how to make 10 cards out of one 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of decorative scrapbook paper. Additional decorative papers, including holiday themed designs, along with ribbon, brads, stamps, and other embellishments will be available to create your cards.

We will think 'outside the box' and you will discover just how easy and fun this is. You will be amazed! Instructions will be handed out at the class, examples will be provided, and door prizes are drawn at the end of the class. This class is stress-free and the only thing you have to do is HAVE FUN! All ages are welcome.

$15 includes all supplies

Instructor: Lorna Plourde, Gardiner, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Soothe your soul

Meditation in Motion "MAGIC STEPS" - let's dance
Saturday November 7th, 10am - 3pm

From many ancient cultures archaic dancing sequences have been handed down, which have direct impact on our consciousness and our abilities of perception. To practice them is a form of meditation in motion, which opens the door to a conscious experience of the unity of body, mind, and soul. The roots of theses magic steps are thousands of years old.

They address human archetypes which are hardly lived anymore in our modern times, as they are so devoid of conscious rituals.

These movement sequences are quite easy to learn and open the door to a space beyond our every day worries and the constant struggle with our past and our future. This seminar is an invitation to deal with your own being, physical body, and originality.

A part of the training will be accompanied by live music and each dancer has the opportunity to work on the connection of rhythm, voice, and dance.

Students should wear loose, comfortable clothing. Bring a bag lunch. The workshop will take place in two sessions of two hours each with an hour lunch break.

$60 per person

Instructor: Joao Carlos Bordallo, Portland, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Making paint-- not just for Sorcerers anymore!

The Grind: Making Oil Paint by Hand - FREE hands-on demo!
Tuesday October 20th, 6pm - 7:30pm

Ever wonder what goes into making a tube of oil paint? Come and participate in a hands-on demonstration where you will learn how to make your own oil paint from scratch! Discuss the different properties of various oils and what would work best for you as an artist. Making your own paint can save hundreds of dollars a year on supplies and is a technique that is easier than you think!

Free: The event is free but please register so that we can keep track of attendance. (If you would like to make your own paint to take home there is a supply fee of $5 per tube made.)

Instructor: Jamie Ribisi-Braley, Manchester, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

A workshop that feels good!

Natural Body Scrub Workshop
Wednesday October 7th, 6pm - 7pm

Create an assortment of all natural body scrubs - great for yourself or for gift-giving. You will leave the workshop with 3 finished 8oz containers of your own mixtures of body scrubs (more containers may be purchased at the class). Scrubs will be made from a base of sugar or salt and feature your choice of ingredients including: pumpkin, coffee, almond & orange extracts, lemon balm, essential oils, and much more. All ages are welcome- make this a family event!

$16 per person, includes all supplies

Instructor: Joy Ribisi, Manchester, ME

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Workshop- Card Creations!

Card Creations From the Heart
Wednesday September 23rd, 6pm - 8:30pm

Join Lorna and Maryanne for an evening of fun with cardmaking. An example of what Lorna and Mary Anne will be teaching you is how to make 10 cards out of 1 piece of 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of decorative scrapbook back ground paper and how to make 12 cards with matching envelopes out of a used calendar.

We will think 'outside the box' and you will discover just how easy and fun this is. You will be amazed!!!!. This is just an example of what Lorna and Maryanne can teach you. Instructions are handed out at the class and door prizes are drawn at the end of the class.

This class is stress-free and the only thing you have to do is HAVE FUN!

$15 includes all supplies

Instructor: Lorna Plourde, Gardiner, ME
Lorna retired from Central Me. Power after 36 1/2 yrs. of service. She & her assistant Maryanne McCullough have 15+ years of stamping experience each. "We enjoy card making and always looking for new and unique ways to make cards. We do this as a hobby, that's why we enjoy it so much."

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming class: Watercolor ~Register Now!

Watercolor- Don't Be Afraid To Jump In!
Saturday September 19th, 2pm - 4pm

After a brief time of exploring what watercolor can/cannot do, we will "dive in" to an easy, pre-drawn (by Melissa) still life, finding the darkest darks and learning to leave lots of white paper.

Perfect as a beginner or refresher course...don't be afraid to jump in!

$23 ($20 class fee, plus $3 paper supply fee payable to instructor)

Required supplies: Watercolor paint--either tubes or paintbox style--can be quite simple and inexpensive, a medium size "round" brush, and a small detail brush.

Instructor: Melissa Post van der Burg, Augusta, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Class- Intro to Digital Photography

Introduction to Digital Photography
Sunday August 23rd, 2pm - 5pm

If you have ever wanted to learn how to take better photographs this course is for you! This course is for the regular Joe photographer who wants to learn how to turn amateur snapshots into well composed photographs. Using your own digital camera you will learn about using composition and lighting and how to explore the settings on your camera to help you take your photographs to the next level.

$15 per person. Bring your own digital camera (and user's manual if you have one).

Perfect for beginners and students of all ages!

Instructor: Joy Ribisi, Manchester, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Class- Gelatin Plate Printmaking

Gelatin Plate Printmaking
Tuesday August 11th, 6pm - 8:30pm

This method of printmaking was developed in the 1970s by Francis Merritt, who was co-founder and the first director of the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Deer Isle. The process replaces other traditional printing plates with gelatin; ink is painted or rolled directly onto the gelatin and prints are pressed and pulled by hand. Because there is no special equipment needed to press or pull prints, and gelatin and natural materials are readily available, this is an easy "take home" class- a method that is easy for students to learn and then experiment more on their own.

The class will cover a short history of the craft, the making of the gelatin and gathering of other materials, the printing process including basics and experimenting with found objects, storing and/or disposing of your gelatin plate, and different crafts you can do with this process. All materials will be provided in the supply fee.

$50 per person ($40 class fee plus $10 supply fee payable to instructor)

Instructor: Grace Kendall, Litchfield, ME
Grace is currently a stay-at-home mom and works from home as a printmaker and crafter. She sells printed paper goods on Etsy (cozink.etsy.com) as well as in selected stores in Maine. Grace currently has work hanging at Captive Elements Art House in Lewiston as part of their June show. She learned the gelatin plate printmaking method when she was a teenager and attended a workshop at Haystack. She's been printmaking for about 7 years.

Registration deadline: Wednesday August 5th!
Class is limited to 8 students so be sure to complete your registration early!

Upcoming class: Reiki Attunment 2 -Date Change

Reiki Attunement Class -Part 2
Friday July 24th, 3pm - 7pm date change

Reiki II is the second level in becoming a Reiki Master. The students will be attuned to three sacred symbols enhancing their Reiki energy. The symbols are only given to those who have already been attuned to Reiki I. Those attuned to Reiki II can then perform distant healings, emotional/addictive healings and power healings. The class will consist of a review of Reiki I, a study of the three sacred symbols an attunement and practice with the group.

$75 per person
-- Optional course supplies: Reiki manual ($20, let us know if interested in purchasing), cushion, pen and paper

Instructor: Justina Anderson, Usui Reiki Master
Justina is a Usui Reiki Master and Licensed Veterinary Technician from New York.

Register now!

Just listed! Hula Hoop making class!!!

Hula Hoop Crafting
Wednesday July 22nd, 6pm - 8pm

Come join us and make your own personalized hoop to use for fun and exercise! Hula hooping is national past time that is great for young and old. All supplies will be provided (included in the supply fee) and you can decorate your hoop with many colors of tape and even sparkly tape too. Open to all ages, great family activity!

$25 per person ($15 class fee plus $10 supply fee payable to instructor)

Instructor: Linda "Lizzy" Kennedy aka Lizzyoos, and Kyndmamma, lives in the woods of Maine. She has two grown sons and a granddaughter. She is a Tie Dye professional, a music lover, promoter, Radio Dj (wmhb.org), Homegrown Network Rep, an original Phunky Bitch. She spends her days dying new projects, making jewelry, hula hoops, reviewing music, and just enjoying nature. You can find her on the Maine music scene and at many of the summer festivals vending as Lizzyoos. Check out Lizzyoos.net

Registration deadline: Monday July 20th!

First day of classes!

I am so excited to say that tomorrow, Saturday June 6th, is the first day of classes at Sweetland Retreat!!!!!!

It's been a long road of renovation and learning and growing but we've finally made it to this point!  There's still work to do in order to open as a Bed & Breakfast but our goal was to have classes started by this summer and here it is...2 weeks before the Summer Solstice.  Who would have thought we'd be ahead of schedule?

And to celebrate, we're offering a special discount of $10 off to anyone who takes both classes this Saturday and Sunday- The Reiki Atunement class (good for Reiki Level 1 or 2) and the Full Moon Ceremony & Drumming Circle.  

So register now! 

Intro to Encaustic Workshop!

Intro to Encaustic Painting - Saturday June 20th, 10am - 2pm

Learn the ancient art of encaustic painting! Encaustic is the use of beeswax and damar resin melted together and combined with dry pigments to create a unique painting medium. This paint is applied hot/molten and manipulated with a direct heat source. It makes for a lovely layered image into which objects and photographs can be added. If you've seen a Jasper Johns painting then you've seen an encaustic painting!

This class will cover a brief history of encaustic, supplies and where to buy them, setting up, basic encaustic painting including fusing, embedding objects, and creating texture, as well as cleaning up, and caring for your paintings. Participants will complete 1-2 small paintings. No painting experience necessary. Open to ages 15 and up.

$70 includes all supplies; feel free to bring along objects to incorporate (dried natural objects, paper, and photographs on plain paper work well)

Instructor: Jamie Ribisi-Braley, Manchester, ME

Jamie is passionate about creating art and about sharing her techniques and knowledge. She loves to learn how the old masters created their supplies and how they used them. Jamie believes that once you have the foundations of a medium, you’ll know how to make it work for your voice.

Jamie is co-owner of Sweetland Retreat and received her BFA in Painting from Boston University. http://jamieribisi.com

Register now!