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Sunday, July 24, 2011

Surprise workshop in Oregon!

Surprise!

Deep in the Oregon woods, in the central part of the state, waaaayyyyyy over on the coast,  and a two day journey from my island, is a wonderful, enchanting retreat, called Sitka, The Center for Art and Ecology.  It is formally in the town of Otis, OR, which has a post office the size of my bedroom!  

This multi-acre facility is lodged in amongst the woods at the coast, within a deep, green belt of tall trees, serene and absolutely beautiful. We had lots of misty summer rain the first day of the workshop, allowing the aroma of the deep woods to tickle your senses.

Sitka is a non-profit retreat camp, with the most adorable out buildings, and grounded tree houses. They have ongoing artist workshops, with accommodations for the instructors to stay. 

Why was I there?  Well, I got a call last week from a dear one, Stephanie Lee, who needed a little favor.  She could not make a two day workshop she had planned with these lovely people, due to some personal issues, and wondered if I might be able to fill in for her.  So I did.

I have to say it was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life.  The grounds are simply spiritual, putting all of us at ease, allowing the students to settle in to the changes thrown at them (with the option of canceling in advance) and helping me to feel comfortable, in knowing they really wanted to be there, with a substitute!  I could never fill Stephanie's shoes by any means, no one could.  But luckily, a great time was had by all.  The Junk Drawer Metalsmith Class two day workshop went on!


To make the students feel comfortable in Stephanie's absence, we conferenced her in at the beginning and end of the workshop.  It was great way for everyone to meet her and see her smiling face, and contagious enthusiasm for her craft, and love of the art.  

Look at those smiling faces, did all of us have fun or what?

A big thank  you to all the students who hung in there. 
 Pictured are Avery, Vicki, Diana, Holly, Kim, Joy (peeking out behind me), Cara, Dee, Donna and Laurie.


Here are some shots of the grounds.  Art is overflowing at every turn, giving you a rich sense of reflection and inspiration.  Truly a feast for the eyes.

Thank you Stephanie, for your support and trust.  Thanks to all the students who put their faith in the facility, Stephanie and me. It was a blast, and I hope you will continue to use what you learned, and continue to play.

And a huge thank you to Eric, Alene, Dawn and Teal, who made me feel comfortable and welcome.  Your facility is magical. 

I hope all of you will get an opportunity to experience this oasis by the sea one day.

Lots of love,

Riki

12 comments:

Suz said...

Riki,
What a nice thing to do! It looks like an incredible setting. Someday I am going to make it to one of your workshops!
Hugs,
Suz

Blessed Serendipity said...

I know where Otis is as I lived in Lincoln City. I had no idea that art retreat center was there. I hope you ate at the Otis Cafe (next to the tiny post office) while you were there. One of my most favorite breakfast places ever.

Danielle

Diane said...

Oh, these pictures and your story sound magical for sure Riki. What a beautiful group of ladies who got to know you like I do =) A teacher full of energy, willing to share all she knows with her students. I do think Stephanie knew exactly who to call for help....=)
xo

Anonymous said...

You and Stephanie are both such cool chicks, how could this not be a magical experience for all?!?!

Thought of you while I was in Seattle last week visiting a friend. Sherryl has Chole, a black and white Havanese. Told her about Maddie of course!

xo
Gwynnie

Jen Crossley said...

What a wonderful thing for you to do help a friend out.Looks like the students were in great hands with you though Riki a wonderful and talented student in her own right

In the Light of the Moon said...

Oh Gosh Riki how wonderful!!!These students were so lucky to have you!!!Congrats on the class and thank you for sharing these beautiful photos!!Hugs,Cat

Marie Lost Bird Studio said...

Hi Riki,
it sure looks like you all had fun!!Thanks for sharing the beautiful photos.
Have a great week.
Hugs,
Marie

Unknown said...

From the Sitka Center...a big thank you to Riki, Stephanie, and all the incredible students! I loved seeing all the gorgeous art being made!

Hugs,
Jalene

Unknown said...

Oops -- I meant to share the Sitka Facebook page too :)

https://www.facebook.com/sitkacenter

sharon palac said...

Oh, how magically serendipitous! Everyone looks so happy, but how could they not, surrounded by nature and you as their teacher!

Jenny @ Faith + Pearl said...

What a beautiful setting! Just wanted to stop by and thank you again for resending me the link to your soldering rhinestones tutorial......still can't believe I deleted it :) Have a blessed day!

xoxo
jenny

connie said...

wow riki I am so proud of you what an honor to be asked by stephanie! I am proud and impressed my friend! what a beautiful retreat, way to go!!
xo