Contributed by Debra McGhan
Cloudy Lake Retreat
August 4-5, 2018 – 1PM
Debra McGhan, Sandy Falkner
Leeward Studio
N Pittman Rd. Wasilla
Tickets: $160
As the sun sets over the waters of Cloudy Lake, the reds, golds and oranges blaze across the sky cutting through the branches and leaves of the tress amplified by the reflection in the water. To stop and really take in this moment can heal the soul and feed the spirit.
The scents of renewal with the promise of summer fills the air. Nourishing wild vegetation springs up everywhere, beaconing those who know the secrets to feed our bodies.
View of Cloudy Lake, Photo by Debra & Sandra
Artist, Sandra Falkner, encourages her students to breathe in moments like this and freely express their emotions through color and shape.
“There is something truly liberating about placing paint on a canvas in a free-flowing fashion,” she said. “You can let go of a lot of stress by letting go with your mind as you cover your canvas.”
Today, the fast pace technology of life has stolen the joy and calm from life for so many. We suffer from a host of physical and mental ailments with too many pharmaceutical band-aids offered as the quick fix. Instead of healing ourselves with the drugs, we are killing ourselves.
The reality is that we need to take time to focus inward. Draw on our inner child. Explore the time-captured memories buried deep in the recesses of our minds through artistic expression.
In addition to her creation of fine arts at Leeward Studio, she has initiated a therapeutic art program for Hospice through Mat-Su Regional Hospital. She works with patients in both home and hospital settings.
“Art is an amazing vehicle for distraction, empowerment and peace for patients facing their own mortality,” said Falker. Her program also includes a bereavement process for families.
“It’s such a beautiful thing when I can make the family members and the patients smile through art. Even if just for a moment, that is a special gift when you are facing the biggest challenges,” explained Falkner.
You don’t have to be facing the end of life to benefit from this program. Instead, if you’re ready to embrace life, Falker invites you to join her, along with myself, your author, for a magical women’s weekend retreat.
The retreat will be held August 4th and 5th at Leeward Studios on the shores of Cloudy Lake just north of Wasilla. During the retreat, students will have the opportunity to explore the world around them, learn about nature’s wild plants and capture their feelings through art.
“This is a women’s all-inclusive weekend with food, lodging, all the art supplies needed and much more,” said Falker. “Just bring your own comfort things like pillow, pjs, blanket, your teddy bear… whatever makes you feel good. Everything else will be provided.”
Falkner offers dry cabin lodging in a cozy, rustic setting that let’s students be free from the hustle and bustle of ordinary life. There is a minimum of 6 and limit of 10 students.
Women are invited to experience this special weekend to nurture, heal, focus inward and learn new skills through expressions in art and the environment.
Get more information or register online at https://cloudylakeretreat.eventbrite.com or call 864-0477.
