I have been in post as Community Arts Chaplain in Gateshead for the last 2 1/2 years. I have discovered that my role in the arts either horrifies, or at best confuses the arts community. That's fair enough. However, when I'm not feeling like a fish out of water I'm thinking up ways of resourcing local artists. It appears to me that there are two major factors that boost the creative output of an artist - space and support. Space motivates imagination and integrity, and facilitates creativity. Support motivates reflection on the creative process, and provides networking.

To help provide both space and support in the coming year I'm organising an artists retreat at Shepherds Dene, a community house near in Riding Mill, near Corbridge. A retreat does exactly what it says on the tin. It's a space - a space provided for thought, reflection and relaxation away from the pressures of funding deadlines and project completion dates. Do with it what you wish. I mean it.

 

I've pencilled in a 48 hour period starting lunchtime on the 6th February to lunchtime on the 8th. The retreat will costs £80, which includes accommodation and all meals. Riding Mill has great walks, a great pub, and is generally off the beaten track. If you're interested in coming along I need a deposit of £10 by the end of October. 

 

Please feel free to pass this email onto others, or to simply ignore it. Follow the link below to check out the venue.

 

Cheers,

 

Jim.