Current Conferences
2009 Arts and Sabbath: The Montreat Artists Series
April 19-23 & October 4-8, 2009
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For anyone seeking Sabbath time and exposure to an art form – no experience necessary
Part of a continuing series of workshops led by noted regional artists, the Spring and Fall Arts and Sabbath Weeks at Montreat Conference Center are open to anyone interested in one of the areas being offered, regardless of experience.
Choose one art form to study for an entire week, receiving intensive artistic experience under the expert guidance of a skilled artist. Balance learning with Sabbath time, in group worship and individually, for reflection, practice, and the simple enjoyment of applying what you have learned.
Spring Retreat: April 19-23, 2009
- Drawing the Human Figure This course will offer participants an opportunity to draw the human figure using a live, clothed model. Learning about dimensions, ratio and gesture, we will practice drawing skills as well as spend time creating full compositions. The human figure is beautiful, wondrously made and endlessly intriguing. This will be an ideal time for beginners who want to find out what figure drawing is all about as well as seasoned figurative artists who will enjoy the opportunity to draw from a live model. Ellen Cavendish Phillips, Tucker, GA; professional artist specializes in figurative sculpture, painting and portraiture as well as liturgical art.
- Pottery: In the Potter’s Hands Each day we are in the potter’s hands being molded, stretched, and formed. In this workshop, through working with clay and exploring the relationship of the elements of earth, water, and fire, we will find a place to pause in Sabbath. Limited to 10 participants. Martha Nelson, Ridgecrest, NC; professional potter and pottery instructor who spends her summers teaching at the Sally Jones Pottery in Montreat.
Fall Retreat: October 4-8, 2009
- Watercolor Painting from Life As watercolor flows on paper, creativity is inspired and released! We will reflect on God’s creation within by observing, painting, and connecting with His work in nature and the landscape. Participants will examine the work of some classical watercolorists, and review watercolor techniques, color theory, and composition. Wrapped in the beauty of Montreat, each will be supported and encouraged to draw upon his or her own personal style as paintings are developed. All levels are welcome! Cheryl Keefer, Montreat, NC; a professional oil and watercolor painter, Cheryl has a degree in Art Education. She has taught watercolor at the Currie Craft Center in Montreat for six years and is an artist in residence there. She teaches oil painting from life at the Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League.
- Pottery: In the Potter’s Hands Each day we are in the potter’s hands being molded, stretched, and formed. In this workshop, through working with clay and exploring the relationship of the elements of earth, water, and fire, we will find a place to pause in Sabbath. Limited to 10 participants. Martha Nelson, Ridgecrest, NC; professional potter and pottery instructor who spends her summers teaching at the Sally Jones Pottery in Montreat.
Program Fee
- Program fee on or before March 6 / August 24, $180 + materials fee;
- Program fee after March 6 / August 24, $205 + materials fee
- Materials Fees: $15/Drawing the Human Figure; $25/Pottery; $15/Watercolor Painting
Scholarships are available for this conference.
Cost for Housing and Meals
Rates are per person and include all room and meal charges for the entire retreat (Sunday supper – Thursday breakfast). No adjustments to package will be made except for extended stay. Meals for children age 5-11: $53.25; under 5: no charge. No room charge for children under 12 years of age in the same room with parent(s).
Assembly Inn
- Single, Private Bath: $461
- Single, Connecting Bath: $385
- Double, Private Bath: $305 per person
- Double, Connecting Bath: $285 per person
Glen Rock Inn
- Single, Connecting Bath: $265
- Double, Connecting Bath: $185 per person
Learn more about these and other housing options available in Montreat…
Registration Information
Event begins: Sunday, April 19 / October 4, with registration, 3:30-5:00 PM, Assembly Inn Lobby.
Event ends: Thursday, April 23 / October 8, following morning prayers.
Child care is not provided during this conference.
If you would like conference information mailed to you via U.S. mail, please email carolo[at]montreat.org. Questions about registration? Email the registrar at susana[at]montreat.org.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be received by March 6 / August 24 in order to receive a full refund less a $25 service charge. Cancellations received after March 6 / August 24 but on or before April 13 / September 28 will receive a 50% refund of the conference fee and payments made toward room and meal charges (if applicable) less $40. No refunds (including materials fee) will be issued after April 13 / September 28. All requests must be in writing and received via email, fax, or U.S. mail.