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I love teaching expressive drawing and painting and have been teaching in spiritual centers as well as privately since 1990.
My intention is to help you to access what it is that you would like or need to express and to find your own unique language to express that. In a safe and nurturing atmosphere we use meditation, visualization, shamanic journeying, and music to go within and discover what would like to emerge. We will acknowledge emotions, colors, or shapes that beckon.
Here are some common fears:
- Feeling blocked
- Tendencies toward perfectionism
- Lack of technical skill
- Fear of going within due to what we may discover there
Don’t worry! You will be in a safe place to explore.
If you are coming from out of town I have very inexpensive options for accommodations if you register early. If those are filled I can often connect you with someone to share a room at a nearby airbnb or hotel. Just inquire info@melissaharris.com.
No, you don’t need experience to take a workshop.
I am used to working with folks with all areas of experience from none at all to those with an art degree from Yale. We are all in this together to provide a safe atmosphere to discover with no judgments. I have a strong classical background in technique and can help you develop your technique if that is your interest. I also have the ability to help you work from your head and discover what wants to emerge.
Click here to preview Art and Spirit: Art-Making Retreat.
MATERIALS:
If you are already working artistically with a particular medium, you may bring that and work in that medium. I have some basic supplies here -oil pastels, some acrylics if you are not sure if this is for you and don’t want to make the financial investment to buy supplies. My suggestions are oil pastels, (these can be the inexpensive craypas, which are like oily crayons), acrylic paints, watercolors, or soft pastel. Materials are not that critical. You are welcome to call or email and discuss with me.
The following are some questions that were asked of me during a radio interview on the healing effects of art-making:
ART-MAKING IS HEALING FOR ANYONE BECAUSE:
It allows one to go into sort of meditative trance space whereby thoughts, emotions, ideas can most easily surface. Once identified, they are “brought to light” I like to say. Then one can give form to these intuitive insights releasing the inner light of the soul. Sometimes I find myself remembering something that seems irrelevant; however, if I then ask “what relation does this memory have to any current situation”, I might find a link that then allows me a better understanding. It’s similar to working with dreams to get answers to problems
CONFIDENCE:
I would say that this is one of the most important ways that art making can be healing. One will inevitably become frustrated but confidence comes in learning that we can face our fears and blocks and work through them. One becomes adept at discerning what is important to them by identifying subject matter and manner of expression.
EXPOSURE:
Is a place where growth comes in. In expressing or revealing our inner world paint or drawing materials we give ourselves an arena to expose ourselves in.
ANGER AND DEPRESSION:
can be lifted by using this part of the brain, accessing feelings and opening the heart.
SELF ACCEPTANCE:
comes by way of being able to “be with” a piece of work that didn’t come out the way we planned. We learn not to be a perfectionist. When I am accepting of myself, everything is working more smoothly. I am relaxed and at peace.
Doing artwork engages the right side of the brain, which is healing for my being. I get grouchy if I don’t use this muscle often enough. I hear this from almost every other artist I speak with. It has a calming and relaxing effect on the mind and body, thus strengthening the will to heal and opening the heart.
Informal discussions of our artwork with one another: help one get comfortable with the fact that we will not always create something beautiful or to our satisfaction. We come to understand that that is not as bad as we feared. The reviews and exposure help one find where their strengths lie, thereby increasing confidence. Everyone has strengths. Perhaps it is in being able to access images, or using color well, or having a nice loose expressive hand.
BLOCKS:
learning to work through blocks also promotes self confidence which can be applied to blocks in other areas of life.
DISCIPLINE:
is necessary if one’s goal is to integrate art-making on a regular basis in one’s life. Finding our discipline here can help us to carry it over to all areas of life.
COLOR:
Upcoming Workshops
For this workshop there is the option of adding another day (going through Monday). The cost is $85 extra which will include instruction and lunch. You can pay this by check or cash at the workshop. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there! I adore how you are flexible with sensing the groups emotional needs, yet rigid with the wisdom to know discipline and keeping people on task is important when it comes to producing art. Of all the art instructors I’ve had in my lifetime, you are only the 2nd one I’ve ever experienced that “gets” this and utilizes it effectively. The circle and spiritual time only adds icing to an already well built cake! I felt so comfortable and like I had been part of your group for lifetimes. I admire your style of teaching and hope to emulate it when I start teaching children again in the spring. Marguerite – MA “I just returned from an amazing weekend surrounded by art, nature, love, talent and friendship. The retreat was everything I wanted and more. Time seemed not to exist while working on the process of getting in touch with ourselves. Through meditation and introspection we explored the creative process. Melissa guided us gently, and enabled us to push past our own limitations. The group of us worked blissfully..enjoying the breezes and music, surrounded by Melissa’s inspiring artwork. If that wasn’t enough, we were served a beautiful healthy lunch every day. with fresh mint tea and amazing brownies for dessert. The experience was enlightening and inspiring. I can’t wait to do it again!” Alison Greenwod Lake, NY “I am still gratefully basking in the glow of the weekend! I always feel brand new every time I come and I am always nourished and enlivened by the creative hatchery that you fill with love, laughter, music and guidance. I was able to go deep and allow the energy to percolate through me in different and fun ways this time. Thank you for sensing my need to listen and feel from the inside out and savor what comes through where you can help me see different options to pull it all together in harmonious ways that both honor the original impulse and basic design elements. You are so so good at tuning in and watching the creative babies being born and training the midwives in delivery.” Vickie Dash PA “Nobody gets me going creatively like you do. Your suggestions always move me miles down the road….Thank you so very much Melissa” Robin R. Bangor, ME “Your workshops are unique in providing loving energy that invites the imagination to come out and play. Your unique blend of intuitive and compassionate teacher gives you the ability to tune in to each individual and honor the spirit of their exploration. Your encouragement of our longing to express is the magic that erases the fears and doubts”. Ruth Cook, Gloucester, MA There are many accommodation options. I have my own airbnb here on my property. There are a few spaces at a friend’s home nearby that (an informal B & B) are very inexpensive and include breakfast but they go early! There are also many airbnb’s nearby. There is a reasonable Quality Inn in Kingston NY that is only five minutes away as well as many other hotels and local B & B’s depending on your preferences. Ask Melissa about accommodations. Stay or come early and explore the infamous and cute town of Woodstock. Click here for a full description of the Retreat. Option is available to save the credit card fee and pay $335 by check (or $420 for 3 days), made out to Melissa Harris and sent to PO Box 56 West Hurley, NY 12491 $350.00 – $435.00Select options “Thank you for being a beautiful, funny, instructive and intuitive spirit guide creating a pathway to the portal beyond and easing my resistance to the energy and visions that want to use me to stream through. Your workshop got me started on a good path and helped me see the strong connection between my spiritual life and my creativity. You’d think it would be obvious, but “knowing’ something and actually “getting” it are two distinct processes for me.” Lin Ferrell Richmond, VA “I absolutely love Melissa Harris and her “Painting Outside the Lines” workshop. Melissa provides a safe and sacred haven for the journey. Whether you are a beginner or highly disciplined artist, you are supported with love and grace. Being in this atmosphere of creative support can open your heart to create and give you momentum to move forward, if you are willing to embrace the journey!” Patty Neuman Tarrytown, NY “In your instruction, you come from a place of great respect and love for each opening flower and freely give of your spiritual midwifery. Others may talk of technique but without the spiritual connection there is not the vibrancy and inner stirring to join in the dance You are certainly qualified to teach us all aspects of technique but go beyond that to light our inner flame.” Ruth Cook Gloucester, MA Art & Spirit in Ireland – a Watercolor Pilgrimage to Sacred Sites in Magical Ireland May 2020 “I’m in heaven! If you ever have a chance to go to a workshop with Melissa, do it. Her inspiration, guidance and teachings have changed me. The retreat was one of the best things I have done!” Katie Crommet – MA “I am still LIVING ON FAIRY DUST! IT WAS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES OF MY LIFE !” Connie Judson Montauk, NY “I loved the Irish music, it was authentic and in a really intimate setting – wonderful. Seeing the sheep grazing – I never realized that the sheep could make such an impact on me. And of course the ocean and Dingle – the breath taking views, breathing the salt air and walking the beach. AND the food!!!” Linda S. Woodstock, NY This is an invitation to those of you who would like to explore your creativity with like-minded, adventurous women in magical Ireland. Come with us and experience the beauty of Ireland in its’ best season, when the bursting flowers add more color to the emerald green landscape and the dazzling coastline welcomes us. We will delight in the charm of old Ireland, including some authentic Irish music while learning or fine- tuning the art of watercolor. This is a spiritual retreat where we make art (both process painting as well as plein air). No previous experience in art or with this medium is required. A supply list will be emailed to you upon registration. Don’t allow your fears of “I’m not an artist” or “I haven’t painted in years” to prevent you from missing this opportunity of a lifetime. My gifts as an intuitive help me to create nurturing environments for the part of your spirit that wants to emerge to blossom. We will convene in circles and at sacred sites to encourage our creative visions to emerge. Meditation at these places will help us to connect with the spirit of the land. With each year I’ve taken this journey I’ve added more details and sacred sites to make in an especially magical and potent experience. This will be a small group and filled very quickly last year. If you are interested register early! paint overlooking the ocean! Ireland is a very “thin place”. What is a thin place? It’s a place where the veils between this world and others are thin, a gateway to the other world, if you will. Thin places are subjective. For example, I may not feel particularly sensitive to strong energies in the same spot that you might. I have selected places for us on this tour that affected me profoundly; I’m enthusiastic about sharing them with you. My nomadic nature has taken me to locations that have tugged at the edges of my soul, including numerous thin places. The oldest Goddess temples in Malta, the many sacred sites in Cornwall England, Findhorn, and other thin places in Scotland have beckoned and received my curious spirit. I’ve spent hours meditating at these spots, allowing the mystery and energies of the places to soak in while painting on site. I’m forever changed each time I do this. Now I am excited to bring the richness of this experience to you! As with any of my events activities are planned but I follow the flow and energies of those attending so these plans are always subject to change. The basic structure of the retreat will stay in place. I chose our locations based on geography, beauty, and comfort. The rates are based on doubles. There are limited singles. If you need a single the earlier you let me know the better and I will do my best to accommodate you. During our days together I will be sensitive to your need to stay quiet at times or rest. You will not be required to do more than you are comfortable with and I am including some time to be still and integrate. You are welcome to opt out on any given activity if your body/mind says “stop, I need a break!” What our time together will look like: THE MAGICAL MIDLANDS OF IRELAND – Next, we are off to Dingle Peninsula by private bus. There are surprises along the way which I will share upon your registration! In Dingle we are housed in a large retreat center near the town of Dingle complete with conservatories and a large lounge with spectacular views over Dingle Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and Ireland’s highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy’s Reeks. It is in a fantastic seaside location on an elevated site above four miles of sandy beach and dunes.The lodge has a huge private kitchen. We will take turns making breakfasts and lunches (lunches when we are not on outings). Dinners will be at a local Inn or out and about. I’ve managed to put this amazing pilgrimage together at a very reasonable price. . I will do my best to accommodate your sleeping requests. First come, first serve. For payment by CHECK. (preferred and no credit card commission or admin fees). One- time payment of $2600 in full shared accommodations or 8 payments of $325 SINGLE: SUPPLEMENT $500 – only one single available. For payment ONLINE: One time payment of $2,700 or 8 payments of $340. SINGLE SUPPLEMENT $500 – $299.00 – $3,070.00Select options If you need to make different arrangements connect with Melissa info@melissaharris.com. Call 845 340 9632 with any questions What is not included: Cancellation Policy With months of planning to make this a most special retreat, I will do my best to honor emergencies. A refund will be offered for any medical issue and/or emergency, less a $250 administrative fee. Your first payment authorizes that you understand this refund policy, commit to payment in full and take full responsibility for your personal choices and safety while you travel. In the event of cancellation, you may find another person to take your place on the trip provided they agree to the terms of this agreement and after an interview between the person and Melissa whereupon it is decided that the trip is agreeable with both parties. Written cancellation is required to process a refund. Travel insurance is reasonably priced and recommended when you book your flight. Air travel to and from the retreat is not included. but we will have a “Share a Ride” bus from Dublin. Melissa can make suggestions on return travel. It is suggested that you may want to do your flights “a la carte ” and fly into Dublin and out of Shannon if at all possible. There are public buses that serve both areas. For any travel questions consult Melissa 845 340 9632 info@melissaharris.com $299.00 – $3,070.00Select options For this workshop there is the option of adding another day (going through Monday). The cost is $85 extra which will include instruction and lunch. You can pay this by check or cash at the workshop. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there! I adore how you are flexible with sensing the groups emotional needs, yet rigid with the wisdom to know discipline and keeping people on task is important when it comes to producing art. Of all the art instructors I’ve had in my lifetime, you are only the 2nd one I’ve ever experienced that “gets” this and utilizes it effectively. The circle and spiritual time only adds icing to an already well built cake! I felt so comfortable and like I had been part of your group for lifetimes. I admire your style of teaching and hope to emulate it when I start teaching children again in the spring. Marguerite – MA “I just returned from an amazing weekend surrounded by art, nature, love, talent and friendship. The retreat was everything I wanted and more. Time seemed not to exist while working on the process of getting in touch with ourselves. Through meditation and introspection we explored the creative process. Melissa guided us gently, and enabled us to push past our own limitations. The group of us worked blissfully..enjoying the breezes and music, surrounded by Melissa’s inspiring artwork. If that wasn’t enough, we were served a beautiful healthy lunch every day. with fresh mint tea and amazing brownies for dessert. The experience was enlightening and inspiring. I can’t wait to do it again!” Alison Greenwod Lake, NY “I am still gratefully basking in the glow of the weekend! I always feel brand new every time I come and I am always nourished and enlivened by the creative hatchery that you fill with love, laughter, music and guidance. I was able to go deep and allow the energy to percolate through me in different and fun ways this time. Thank you for sensing my need to listen and feel from the inside out and savor what comes through where you can help me see different options to pull it all together in harmonious ways that both honor the original impulse and basic design elements. You are so so good at tuning in and watching the creative babies being born and training the midwives in delivery.” Vickie Dash PA “Nobody gets me going creatively like you do. Your suggestions always move me miles down the road….Thank you so very much Melissa” Robin R. Bangor, ME “Your workshops are unique in providing loving energy that invites the imagination to come out and play. Your unique blend of intuitive and compassionate teacher gives you the ability to tune in to each individual and honor the spirit of their exploration. Your encouragement of our longing to express is the magic that erases the fears and doubts”. Ruth Cook, Gloucester, MA There are many accommodation options. I have my own airbnb here on my property. There are a few spaces at a friend’s home nearby that (an informal B & B) are very inexpensive and include breakfast but they go early! There are also many airbnb’s nearby. There is a reasonable Quality Inn in Kingston NY that is only five minutes away as well as many other hotels and local B & B’s depending on your preferences. Ask Melissa about accommodations. Stay or come early and explore the infamous and cute town of Woodstock. Click here for a full description of the Retreat. Option is available to save the credit card fee and pay $335 by check (or $420 for 3 days), made out to Melissa Harris and sent to PO Box 56 West Hurley, NY 12491 $350.00 – $435.00Select options Cliff Dwelling House – Bouzies, France In this 10 DAY ALL INCLUSIVE Art and Spirit Retreat in the south of France hosted by Perigord Retreats we combine plein air painting at historical and medieval sacred sites along with meditation and studio painting time. Workshops are an ideal place to explore your creative process, especially within a like minded group of individuals in a magical location. The Dordogne region is rich in historic castles, culture, towns, caves and landscapes- sure to provide you with the trip of a lifetime. No previous experience is required. You may choose to simply keep an informal visual travelogue of your time in this beautiful region of France. At the retreat you will: Learn or refine watercolor technique through basic tools such as composition, color, subject matter, perspective and proportion Use meditation to connect with your inner being to help define your own unique style of painting Visit and paint at sacred sites such as Rocamadour, location of the Black Virgin dating back to the 11th Century, Cahors with its Roman remants and on the route of the Pilgrims of Santiago Compostella, Sarlat cathedral and medieval buildings, St Circ Lapopie with it’s church and spiritual, surrealist feel. Other towns we may visit include La-Roque Gageac, Beynac castle, Sarlat La Caneda and more. Visit quaint French markets and magical medieval towns Have time to relax and integrate what you are learning while soaking up the beauty and magic of this gorgeous region while enjoying comfortable accommodations and gourmet food at Perigord Retreats -complete with indoor pool, spacious studio and stunning gardens! EARLY BIRD PRICES $3500 USD FOR A PRIVATE BEDROOM PRIVATE BATHROOM $3700 USD FOR A PRIVATE BEDROOM PRIVATE BATHROOM *Current Euro Exchange Rate More info and registration HERE WHAT PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY ABOUT PERIGORD RETREATS “I can’t rave about Perigord Retreats enough. The place is run by the Turner family, and each of them works to make this place fabulous. Angela, the mom, is a force of nature, with unbounded energy dedicated to meet each individual’s needs while always smiling and filled with warmth. Her cooking is extraordinary, preparing gourmet meals for the group every day, and even making accommodations for special dietary needs. Her son Harrison and husband Adrian are usually the drivers for daily outings to the towns and sights in the area that are picture perfect and wonderful to paint. They bring humor and charm to each adventure. Perigord even has a swimming pool, a refreshing treat at the end or start of a hot, busy day. I was concerned about spending 10 days here, not knowing what I was getting into. I came away thrilled by a perfect vacation, filled with the peace of the country, the delight of great food shared on the porch where we could smell the scent of lavender and watch the rising or setting sun, and the excitement of daily trips to places of unparalleled beauty. Thank you all for an unforgettable experience!” “You’ll never experience anything to match the care you receive from this family. They are committed to your comfort and Angela cooks like a top chef! Father and son are knowledgeable about wonderful places for painters and provide transport after consultation with the tutor. Angela makes up a delicious picnic for the group to enjoy while out and the men set it all up in special places. A studio, custom built as part of the Retreat,is a special bonus for completing work in the evenings. Our experience with them left us feeling we had been welcomed warmly into their family and made special new friends”. Cancellation Policy: A non-refundable deposit of 30% is payable at the time of booking. The full balance is due 60 days before commencement of the holiday. All cancellations must be made in writing by the person who booked the holiday. If the holiday is cancelled up to 60 days before commencement of the holiday a 30% charge is made (deposit already paid). If the holiday is cancelled from 59 to 30 days prior to the holiday a 75% charge is made. If the holiday is cancelled between 29 days and commencement of the holiday a 100% charge is made. Jan10Fri Art and Spirit: Art-Making Workshop
Dragonfly Acres Woodstock NY @ Melissa's Woodstock NY Studio Jan 10 @ 5:30 pm – Jan 12 @ 3:45 pm
In my Art and Spirit workshops I combine my talent as an intuitive with my extensive background in painting to help you to work through creative blocks and learn or refine technique. Come and join a like minded circle of sisters as we explore what wants to emerge. My large light filled studio and acres of forest and meadow is the ideal location to support you as you relax and explore what your heart and soul hold to be true. The workshop is for those with no experience as well as those who would like to improve existing skills. Students are encouraged to work with their own supplies if they have them (pastels, watercolor, acrylic, or other except oil – ). Melissa will supply more complete information on materials upon your registration.I have some very basic fill in supplies here at the studio if you don’t want to fully invest at this point but you will need to bring your own. Workshops include lunches. Weather permitting we often gather at Melissa’s fire circle in the evenings for some song, laughter and treats.
Mar28Sat Art & Spirit Watercolor Play Day with Melissa Harris @ circles of wisdom Mar 28 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
In her Art and Spirit workshops, Melissa combines her gift as an intuitive with her extensive background in painting to help you to work through creative blocks and learn or refine technique. Come and join a like-minded circle as you explore what wants to emerge from your inner world. All levels of experience are welcome. Bring your own watercolor supplies or material fee of $10 to use Melissa’s. Contact Melissa if you would like more info info@melissaharris.com
May19Tue Art & Spirit in Ireland May 2020 @ Two Magical Locations May 19 @ 6:00 pm – May 29 @ 6:00 pm
Make checks out to Melissa Harris and send to PO Box 56 West Hurley, NY 12491. No need to fill out payment form online, just email me to reserve your spot and to let me know you are sending a check right out.
What is included: Jul10Fri Art and Spirit: Art-Making Workshop
Dragonfly Acres Woodstock NY @ Melissa's Woodstock NY Studio Jul 10 @ 5:30 pm – Jul 12 @ 3:45 pmIn my Art and Spirit workshops I combine my talent as an intuitive with my extensive background in painting to help you to work through creative blocks and learn or refine technique. Come and join a like minded circle of sisters as we explore what wants to emerge. My large light filled studio and acres of forest and meadow is the ideal location to support you as you relax and explore what your heart and soul hold to be true. The workshop is for those with no experience as well as those who would like to improve existing skills. Students are encouraged to work with their own supplies if they have them (pastels, watercolor, acrylic, or other except oil – ). Melissa will supply more complete information on materials upon your registration.I have some very basic fill in supplies here at the studio if you don’t want to fully invest at this point but you will need to bring your own. Workshops include lunches. Weather permitting we often gather at Melissa’s fire circle in the evenings for some song, laughter and treats. Sep19Sat 
DATES – SEPTEMBER 19 – 28 2020
PRICING – NOTE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL – REGISTRATION BY December 1 2020
$2940 USD* FOR A PRIVATE BEDROOM/SHARED BATHROOM
$5880 TOTAL ($2940 EA PERSON) COUPLES/FRIENDS SHARING – PRIVATE BATHROOM
AFTER December 1 2020
$3140 USD* FOR A PRIVATE BEDROOM/SHARED BATHROOM
$6280 TOTAL ($3140 EA PERSON) COUPLES/FRIENDS SHARING – PRIVATE BATHROOM
INCLUDED IN YOUR RETREAT
NOT INCLUDED
