Filter and Focus (SOLD OUT - click HERE to be added to the waitlist)
Byron Bay Hinterland, Australia
March 3-10, 2024
During this retreat with Terri Froelich and Susan Melrath, we aim to nourish all of you. Filter and Focus is the theme. Together, we will dive deep into your inspiration and choose the marks, colors and shapes that best express your unique message in order to create art that feels authentic and alive (insert full body shivers here!!!)
Join us in the Byron Bay Hinterland for 8 days (7 nights) for an experience that allows you to immerse yourself in how your art connects to you, the message you want to say, and how you want it to be said.
You will choose the elements of art that are most important to you and experience the freedom of turning up their focus, and dialing down or eliminating the rest. It is your art, your style, your way AMPLIFIED.
A retreat to nourish all of you…
Nourish your art by diving deep into how your inspirations turn into confident choices in your art. Learn from coaches who see you, connect with you, laugh with you and walk beside you.
Nourish your heart by connecting with other artists who are at a similar stage in their journey and facing similar challenges.
Nourish your mind with growing self-confidence and ease with who you are and what you want to create.
Nourish your nervous system in the stillness of the Byron Bay countryside.
Your retreat is held at a peaceful sanctuary in the Byron Bay hinterland. This purpose-built retreat centre is a magical oasis of calm and nature.
For those traveling to the area, Byron Bay is known for its spectacular beaches, bohemian glamour, beautiful dining scene and vibrant arts culture. The hinterland is its tranquil and stunning counterpart.
Nourish your body in the infrared sauna, magnesium pool, or a walk through the nature trails.
Nourish your belly with organic meals created by our two private chefs who source organic foods from local farmers who are artists in their own right.
Nourish your community by relaxing, recharging, laughing and learning together.
What You Will Learn
Dive deep into how your inspirations can lead to freeing choices in your art.
Simplifying can be one of the most challenging things in art…there are so many possibilities!!
Aligning our choices with our personal message can be even harder, requiring the courage to make tough decisions.
This can feel especially intimidating for practicing artists who are already known for their work, depend on an income, or hear that critical voice telling them to stay the course.
Yet, it can be freeing and exhilarating and scary and powerful all at once if you let yourself go there.
That’s where we come in. WE WILL BE TAKING YOU THERE. You will be creating artwork that comes from a deeper place within you.
You are going to be excavating, and asking yourself, “Why do I paint what I paint? What is the meaning for me? How can this meaning be best expressed?”
This is the process of filtering.
You will be discovering the most inspired way that you can share what’s important to you.
You’ll determine which techniques, approaches, or colors should be amplified and which should be eliminated or toned down.
This is the process of focus.
During the course of the week we will tell you direct, love you deep, and wrap you in a cocoon of humor and fun while you get brave with who you are.
Our studio for the week overlooks the beautiful surroundings.
With 20 artists and two instructors there will be plenty of one-on-one feedback so that your personal questions will be answered.
We will work on sturdy paper with acrylic paint. We will provide you with a list of supplies prior to the retreat.
This retreat is best for experienced painters and advanced beginners.
Accomodation & Costs
Double Occupancy / Twin Bed / Shared Bath
US$ 3,300
Double Occupancy / Double Bed / Shared Bath
US$ 3,400
Single Occupancy / Double Bed / Shared Bath
US$ 3,600
Single Occupancy / Queen Bed / Shared Bath
US$ 3,850
Single Occupancy / Double Bed / Private Bath
US$ 3,950
Single Occupancy / King Bed / Private Bath
US$ 4,000
Single Occupancy / King Bed / Private Bath w/tub
US$ 4,100
What’s included
7 nights accomodation
All meals and snacks provided by our private chefs
Full use of retreat facilities including magnesium pool and infrared sauna
Morning and afternoon teaching sessions delivered by Susan and Terri
How it works
At the time of booking you pay a US$500 non-refundable deposit
30 days from booking, the first half of the balance is due
30 days on from that (60 days from booking) the remaining half of the balance is due
Note that images shown of rooms are for reference only and may not be the exact room you reserve
BONUS for all artists who book on the day of the live call.
If a retreat is booked today (the day of the live call), you will get personalized feedback from Susan on a painting you submit. Use this opportunity to ask the one question that can unlock the way forward. If you are clever with the question you ask, the answer may impact your other paintings as well. HINT…don’t ask “is this finished?” !!!
You will receive the link to submit your painting and question after the first half of your balance is paid. In return, Susan will provide an answer and feedback in the form of a short video sent to you via email.
FAQ
Where is the workshop located and what airport do I fly into?
The workshop is located in the beautiful countryside of Byron Bay, Australia near The Pocket. We recommend that you fly into either of the following airports: Coolangatta Airport (OOL - also known as Gold Coast Airport) or Ballina Airport (BNK). Both airports are approximately 40 minutes from the retreat center. Once you have registered, we will send you options for transportation services from the airport to the retreat center. Each attendee will be responsible for their own transportation to and from the retreat center.
What kind of clothes should I pack?
The most important thing to pack is your painting clothes! The average high/low temperature in March is between 70 - 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21-26 Celsius). Most of the time will be spent painting, eating, connecting and relaxing at the venue with a possible optional excursion nearby. The beach is approximately 10 minutes from the retreat! You might want to bring a change of clothes for dinner but it's completely optional - and casual. Some will return after dinner to continue painting! Don’t forget your swimming suit so you can enjoy the magnesium pool and infrared sauna!
What is covered by the retreat fee?
Accommodations for 7 nights, painting instruction with Susan and Terri (morning and afternoon sessions each day), meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) - and some fun and laughs!
What is not covered by the retreat fee?
Airfare, travel insurance (required), transportation to and from the venue, supplies, alcoholic beverages, tips for staff, art supplies, travel before or after the workshop and/or any personal purchases made.
What method of payment is accepted for the retreat?
We accept credit card (Visa & Mastercard). If you prefer an alternative payment method, please reach out to us at info@artfuelstudio.com. All payments are billed in US Dollars.
Is there a deposit required and what is the payment plan for the workshop?
Yes, to reserve your spot for the retreat, we required a US$ 500 non-refundable deposit. The remaining balance will be billed as follows: 30 days from your initial deposit date, you will be charged one half of the remaining fee and the final half will be charged 30 days after this payment (or in other words, 60 days from your initial deposit). All fees must be paid in full no later than 4 months prior to the start of the retreat.
What if I have to cancel?
Your US$ 500 deposit is non-refundable. If you need to cancel after additional payments have been made, we are happy to refund the amount paid (less your deposit), if a replacement person takes your spot and has paid in full - (we’ll be keeping a waitlist). For our full Terms and Conditions please see HERE.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance and proof of purchase is required for all workshops. Please do your research to determine if you should purchase standard travel insurance or if CFAR travel insurance (cancel for any reason) is better for you.
Is there accommodations made for dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and other common food sensitivities. We will send a questionnaire prior to the workshop asking for your requests at that time so the venue is prepared.
What accommodations are offered?
This retreat offers single and double room - all on a first come, first basis. All reservations must be completed through this website.
What supplies are provided and what do I need to bring?
We will send a complete list of supplies you will need to bring 60 days prior to the retreat start date. Here are the basics…
Acrylic Paint (this workshop is taught in acrylics only)
Smaller nylon brushes flats and rounds
Terms and Conditions
To view the ARTfuel Studio Retreats Terms & Conditions, please click HERE.