Art Therapy: Exploring The Elements Through Art

The lightness of Air, the grounding of Earth…

Exploring Through Art

Feel the grounding of Earth, flow of water, lightness of air, and strength of fire through this supportive retreat designed for self-identifying women of all ages. Combining art making, writing and storytelling, this retreat offers opportunities for relaxation, renewal, unburdening, and nurturing voice. No artistic experience is necessary to be able to participate.

Retreat Highlights

Schedule

Day 1 - Thursday

2:00 PM – Arrival & Check-in
4:00 PM – Opening Circle and Introductions
5:30 PM – Refresh In Your Room, Get Acquainted
6:00 PM – Lemon Herb Roast Chicken With Feta Goddess Sauce
7:00 PM – Opening Storytelling Fire

Day 2 - Friday

7:30 AM – Morning Reflection & Optional Walk (Self-Directed)
8:00 AM – Mini Croissant Sandwiches And Greek Yogurt
9:30 AM – The Lightness Of Air Workshop
12:30 PM – Grilled Chicken And Quinoa Salad With Cucumber Gazpacho
2:00 PM – The Grounding Of Earth Workshop
5:00 PM – Free Time To Rest, Paddle, Or Open Studio Art
6:30 PM – Garlic Butter Filet Mignon And Grilled Mushroom Mix
8:00 PM – Storytelling Fire

Day 3 - Saturday

7:00 AM – Morning Reflection, Walk or Yoga (Self-Directed)
8:00 AM – Brioche French Toast And Fresh Minted Berries
9:30 AM – The Flow Of Water Workshop
12:30 PM – Grilled Vegetable And Pesto Panini And Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
2:00 PM – The Action Of Fire Workshop
5:00 PM – Free Time To Rest, Paddle, Or Open Studio Art
6:30 PM – Seated Herb Crusted Catch Of The Day
8:00 PM – Final Storytelling Fire

Day 4 - Sunday

7:30 AM – Morning Reflection, Walk or Yoga (Self-Directed)
8:30 AM – Smoked Gouda And Spinach Frittata And Hot Scones
10:00 AM – Integration Circle
12:00 PM – Closing Celebration
2:00 PM – Departure

Meet Your Facilitator

Pam Garner (Otterbear Creative Studios)

Lead Facilitator, Art Therapist

Hi, I’m Pam – a cis-gendered female in her early sixties. I enjoy camping, kayaking, and creating art including pottery and storytelling. As an art therapist I have worked with a diverse range of people from children to seniors. I have a trauma-informed, relational style with and interest towards the expressive arts.

otterbearstudios.weebly.com

Art Therapy: Echoes from the Studio

“I enjoyed the ‘no pressure’ atmosphere Pam created during the art workshop. She immediately put us at ease and had us creating our own stories using the array of art supplies she brought. We created art work that came from our heart, wishes and dreams. It was a unique experience and I found that it’s okay to use black paint!”

D.L.M.

“Pam creates through humble ways a safe space within her workshops for even the not so crafty types like me. I learned that I have an inner artist that felt safe enough to come alive during her workshop. I found that Art Therapy is a fun way to get to know yourself better. It has been a life-changing experience for me.”

D.M.c.

Frequently Asked Questions

What would be a reason that I may need this retreat?

This retreat will provide opportunities for: relaxation and rejuvenation, self-reflection and self-growth, self-compassion, time away from stressors, meeting other art lovers, strengthening inner-resources.

What will the art-making be like on this retreat?

The art-making will be process oriented. Art is a way we can come back to our natural rhythms, decrease stress and anxiety, and take time to feel and express our emotions. Pam will have an invitation ready and the choice to follow it will be in the control of each individual. Participants will be encouraged to move towards the materials, and process, that feels right for them. The art-making is not an artist-led activity, like at a paint night. The sharing/talking about the art is not mandatory, and depends upon each person’s comfort level at that time.

Do I need to bring art supplies?

All art supplies will be provided and some will be found in nature. If you have some favourites that you’d like to use in this experience then you are welcome to bring them. If you have no experience with art supplies that great too.
There will be a list of other items to bring upon registration.

What is the role of an art therapist?

Pam will gently hold the sacred space for art-making and sharing. We will not be analyzing the art. Sharing is not mandatory and will be at each participant’s comfort level. The process of creating art is therapeutic in itself. Having said that, art is also provocative and may bring up emotions and/or surprises. All emotions are welcome and Pam is available if individual debriefing is needed.

Is this a quiet retreat?

Some retreats are silent. This is not one of them. There will be quiet times for art making, being in nature, and reflecting; as well as some collaborative art with others, and some sharing together.

Is it a luxury or a rustic experience?

The cabins are simple and comfortable. It is shared accommodation with 2-4 in each cabin. The cabins have a fire place, fridge and coffee maker. The generators are turned off at night (and for a few hours in the afternoon) so there’s no power for CPAP machines and phone chargers during the night time.
The lodge has wifi.

Can you accommodate my mobility needs?

We cannot accommodate wheelchairs.
There are 4 steps into the lodge and 2 steps into the cabins, and the trails can be uneven. You will need to get in and out of a boat. If you feel you can do these with some help, we are there to help you ‘each step of the way’.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

Our chef can accommodate your dietary needs. Please let us know during the registration process.

Any further questions

Please use the ‘contact’ tab on the retreat and rest website.

Retreat Details

Dates

Aug 21-24, 2025

Duration

4 days, 3 nights

Group Size

10 participants maximum

Price

$1297.00 per person