October 8,9,10, 2027
Watercolor + Wonder
A Women’s Retreat for Creative Renewal & Connection
with guest artist Jenny Grant
IN BEAUTIFUL ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
What would it be like to nurture your creative soul in a beautiful lakefront setting -nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina- for a spacious stretch of days? This retreat will give you permission to do just that, while connecting with other curious creatives, learning the art of watercolor painting & benefitting from this painting process as a calming & centering practice.
At this lakefront sanctuary, discover how watercolor is more than a medium, it’s a practice in presence, flow, and gentle exploration. Through guided exercises, we’ll slow down, tune into our creative voice, and embrace the natural flow of making art. This retreat is an opportunity to calm the nervous system, develop a sustainable self-care practice, and find joy in the process of painting.
“I invite you to develop a deeper healing/balance in your life, by being imaginative and playful while creating. Unlock your creativity and untangle your mind by allowing the watercolor paint to draw you into the present moment through a guided meditation. “
~ Katie
YOUR RETREAT ARTIST
meet
2025
New York
The Atlast Project →
“Communication was top-notch and the final outcome was even better than we imagined. A great experience all around.”
Former Customer
LAKE SANTEETLAH IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL LAKES IN THE U.S. ACCORDING TO TRAVEL & LEISURE & OUTSIDE MAGAZINE
Do I need artistic background or experience to attend this retreat? This is a common question we receive, and the answer isNO, you do not need to be an artist or be experienced with art-making to attend this retreat. Our retreats are designed to be beginner-friendly and supportive of wherever you may be on your creative journey.
What if I am an experienced artist, will I still benefit? Yes, absolutely. Our retreats are designed to be accessible to beginners however, each retreat will have materials, perspectives, creative processes and techniques that are unique to the teaching artist. These will be beneficial as new tools and “artistic lenses” that will support you wherever you are in your creative journey.
Will there be down time? Yes!Each day will have built-in flex time, between art-making sessions, for you to enjoy the lake, relaxing on the decks or screened porch, connecting with others, swimming or taking nature walks.
What is the cancellation policy?Due to the amount of preparation & expense that goes into creating each retreat we are not able to provide refunds. In the event that you are not able to attend, you may transfer your spot to someone who is interested - given advance notice- however please note that it would be your responsibility to find your replacement. As a courtesy, if we have people on a wait list we are happy to announce your available spot for you
What are the options for payment/ reservation? You may pay in full - and save an additional $100 at checkout- or reserve your spot via 3 (non-refundable) installments. Both of those options are available to you in each reservation listing.
Are food sensitivities accounted for in menu planning?Yes. Accommodations in our menu planning depend on the number of people in the group that have specific sensitivities or limitations. For example if several people request gluten free menu items. The most common menu accommodations thus far have been: gluten-free and vegetarian options. While we are not able to accommodate every dietary request we will do our Happy to hear from you If you have questions in advance -or upon registering. Please reach out herewith your questions.
How do I get to the retreat location? While transportation is not included, your host- Kristen Edge- is happy to work with you if you need to arrange for shuttle transport from the Asheville Airport to Lake Santeetlah. Please reach out to your host,Kristen Edge hereif you have questions about arrival logistics.
FAQ’s
Welcome! I’m Kristen Edge, owner of ArtPlay Creativity Studio + Gallery and your host for this workshop in Asheville.
In May of 2025, we began a beautiful new chapter of hosting women’s art retreats at Lake Santeetlah, quietly nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina. It has been a joyful experience to welcome and host women from across the country - and beyond- who feel drawn to nurturing their creative spirit while connecting with other like-hearted souls. A few times per year, we gather in a gorgeous lakefront setting, surrounded by miles of preserved national forest shoreline to remember our inborn creativity and learn from artists who are passionate about sharing their gifts..
I am so excited to welcome Jenny …
happy to answer questions you may have