Just Folks. Reflections from "Draw Botanicals"
Reflections from "Draw Botanicals:" A Transformative Retreat
Just returning from the Draw Botanicals Artists’ Retreat in Olivebridge, NY—a hidden gem nestled just southwest of Woodstock—I’m still soaking in the magic of the experience. The fall foliage was alive and well showcasing a tapestry of golden yellows, rustic reds, and warm browns, while each morning greeted us with crisp air and the faint scent of wood-burning stoves from nearby cabins.
I booked this retreat in July as a gift to myself. At that time, I sought a reset—a chance to immerse myself among like-minded individuals, in a fresh environment that sparked new reflection and creativity. And that’s exactly what I found.
Joined by 75 fellow enthusiasts, we dove into demos and intimate classes led by six renowned botanical illustrators. Our journey began on the first night, where we crafted our own sketchbooks from a variety of watercolor papers. As the weekend unfolded, these pages transformed into small canvases for the techniques we learned from instructors, natural finds from our morning nature walks and from the treasures collected and shared at our communal specimen table.
This retreat was not just about learning; it was about slowing down and engaging with the world around me in a new and meaningful way. As I continue to fill my sketchbook with discoveries and reflections, I look forward to sharing more of this journey with you.
Stay tuned for more sketches and insights from this incredible experience!
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