Join fiber artist Amy Brand for an immersive five-day exploration into the art of needle felting. Designed for all skill levels, this retreat combines traditional sculpting techniques with imagination, storytelling, and an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. Students will learn core felting techniques, working with different fibers, creating smooth forms and organic textures, and incorporating natural materials. They will learn how to build a strong wire armature, sculpt expressive features, and bring personality to their work through thoughtful design. By the end of the retreat, students will leave with three finished projects—a woodland mushroom, a storybook mouse, and a blackbird—along with the knowledge and confidence to continue creating their own whimsical fiber sculptures.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: Amy Brand
Cost: $2,500
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-781-4389

An immersive, play-filled workshop experience creating texture-rich, colorful papers, beautiful hand-dyed fabrics, and intuitive stitched elements, all coming together in a layered art journal. This mixed media, textiles, and art journaling experience will be full of creative demonstrations, with an emphasis on learning to let go of perfectionism, loosen up, and play. Feel the cycle of inspiration that comes from working closely with fellow artists and a hands-on instructor.
 
Location: Glastonbury, Connecticut
Instructor: BB Henry
Cost: $2,500
Sponsor: Artists Rising Creativity Retreats
Website, email, 860-781-4389