“You are truly a kind, sharing and gifted teacher and a special human being.” CAT RAINS RETREAT

Suffice to say I have been on more art courses than I can remember, many I wish to forget!! But this one was the absolute pinnacle of all that I regard as excellent and exceptional in a live, in person retreat. You have learned your subject - mixed media collage over many years. Your most special gift is being anxious to share your passion with your students and all your little tips - so hard earned. You are never precious but truly a kind, sharing and gifted teacher and a special human being.  ~ Anne W.

“A treasured memory I will carry with me for the rest of my life.” CAT RAINS RETREAT

Cat’s mixed media collage retreat in Montelparo, Italy was truly the best decision of my artistic journey. Throughout the retreat, I felt a profound sense of connectedness—not just with the stunning surroundings but also with the incredible group of artists who shared the experience. Catherine’s expert guidance helped me grow and refine my own art in ways I hadn’t imagined, pushing me to experiment and improve. By the end of the retreat, I think we all left feeling deeply inspired, with a renewed sense of purpose and a wealth of new ideas to carry forward in our artistic practice. The week is a treasured memory I will carry with me for the rest of my life. ~ Jana N.

“The freedom to experiment and feel good about the process is where I feel joyful.” CAT RAINS RETREAT

To start with I could see live, in person, the techniques I first saw on you tube and the Collage Joy 2025 course.  Asking questions in real time and seeing how you work up close and personal was really helpful in imprinting in my mind how to improve what I already knew and learn new skills. Secondly, You. You make learning fun (thank you Fleetwood Mac, hahah).  I appreciate the timing of the lessons, how you kept us on track and most of all how you emphasize how it’s our creativity that’s makes it work.  The freedom to experiment and feel good about the process is where I feel joyful. Your preparation for the week is what makes me feel safe.  I like freedom within the guidelines and I really appreciate that! The synergy of a group works best with a talented leader.  You are that person.  Thank you. ~ Laura P.

“I found my tribe in your workshop!” CAT RAINS RETREAT

I appreciate and value your leadership and talent. Thanks for sharing your gifts and extending an invitation to grow.   Women who encourage and promote other women have become harder and harder to find.  I value women who contribute to the development of other women without competitive or limiting energy.  I found my tribe in your Le Marche workshop!  ~ Pam R.

“Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys exploring their creativity at any level in their journey.” ARTPLAY RETREAT

“I recently attended ArtPlay's retreat called Playful Blooms.  It was an amazing experience.  The location was so beautiful and accommodations were very upscale.  The group attending were like minded individuals who loved art, music, and inspiring conversation.  We were pampered by an amazing host- Kristen -who with her team of assistants fed us wonderful food.  We were taught by a very talented teaching artist and the classes were so much fun. Music was played during our sessions as we sang along. I highly recommend ArtPlay's retreats to anyone who enjoys exploring their creativity at any level in their journey.” ~ Kathy C.

“I will carry the joy with me for a long time.” ARTPLAY RETREAT

“The ArtPlay (Playful Blooms) retreat was a feast of laughter, color, flowers, and community. The artist’s warm and generous teaching style made me feel comfortable and capable, even as an artist without a lot of experience. Studio time was focused and organized, while allowing space for fun and laughter. This retreat fed the creative soul in ways that satisfy beyond one weekend. I will carry the joy with me for a long time.” ~ Sandy C.

“I felt very special and cared for. Thank you! ARTPLAY RETREAT

“I really loved the painting but the weekend felt like it was much more than that. For me it was an incredible experience to meet some wonderful women and spend time with my daughter. It was very relaxing and fulfilling.  I still think of all the special women that attended.

Although I was among some very talented artists, I still felt I was successful at making some beautiful art that I could be proud of. The artist’s teaching technique and reassuring words gave me confidence that I could accomplish something beautiful. I’ve continued to practice and even shared what I learned with a friend and now we paint together! I am so grateful! I felt very special and cared for. Thank you so much!” ~ Mary H.

“Meeting other women and having time to have great conversations with them was wonderful.” ARTPLAY RETREAT

Location and accommodations were great. I felt so welcome and the ladies that came were wonderful.  Thank you so much!I loved learning the artist’s technique in watercolor and having unlimited paper as I tend to work very fast!  She was so generous.

Thank you for your working behind the scenes to make this a very special moment for so many  of us and holding space and a safe environment for acceptance and connection - that really meant a lot!  

~ Diane A.

“Absolutely a 10!” ARTPLAY RETREAT

“There was something special  about this place and experience that Kristen carefully crafted for us.  Sharing art and life experiences was a wonderful addition to our workshop giving us all a safe place to land.

Fabulous accommodations ---- I could've literally just moved in ... had my own spacious room with a deck and an extremely comfortable bed.  The meals were very good, each and every one .... I'm not sure I've ever eaten so many delicious deserts.

Next time I would combine the retreat along with a road trip around your beautiful state.  Hope that'll happen again.  

Thank you for your kindness, respect, care and compassion.

~ Sue. G.