Melissa Harris is a travel-loving, internationally published artist and author of 2 books, 2 card decks and thousands of art originals and prints. When my art students saw the influence of my travels reflected in my paintings, they requested to come along. Hence the beginning of Art & Spirit retreats. I choose prime locations of great beauty (Ireland annually and the Southwest US) with ancient sacred sites- the beauty to inspire art and the sacred sites to help us sink deep into ourselves to allow our inner wisdom to emerge into our paintings. I enjoy creating a perfect mix of art and spirit in a safe, nurturing environment. One where women can be free to open to the joy of adventure and express that excitement in their art.
It is not necessary to have any art experience.
I’ve had a handful of women who had never picked up a brush return home to make painting a regular part of their lives! However, you should be in decent shape. We do a bit of walking, but not really hiking. And women typically range from their 40s to 70s. I’m delighted that my groups form lasting friendships that continue past the retreats. There is no pressure. You may skip any activity and kick back in breathtaking surroundings.
Our destinations
In Ireland, we are always on the water, either in a lake or in the ocean. Southwest trips may include the Grand Canyon or Georgia O’Keefe’s Ghost Ranch. Some days are spent touring, and some of the days we paint.
