Art & Soul Retreats
Frequently Asked Art Retreat Questions (FAQ)

How much does it cost to attend?
The major Art & Soul retreats do not have a full retreat price (Asilomar is the only event, at this time, that has one price for the full event).  Classes are priced separately, and the attendee is responsible for their own accommodations and meals, so the price can vary.  We encourage attendees to stay at the host hotel, which is listed on the venue homepage, along with the prices.

Is there a minimum number of workshops I have to sign up for? 
No, you may sign up for just one, or as many as you wish.

How do I register for an event?
Beginning with the 2008 events, all of our registration will be online ONLY.  Prior to the event, we will announce the date and time that registration will open.  Attendees will be able to register online with either a credit card or via PayPal.  Class spaces will fill on a first-come, first-serve basis.  If it's in your cart when you check out, you got in the class--no more waiting to see if you got your first choices, and no more choosing alternates!  Please check the specific venue for more details on the registration process and to check the policies for that event.

If I add a class later, do I have to pay the registration fee again? 
No, the registration fee is one-time only; simply write in the comments area that you have previously paid it.

Can I switch classes if I change my mind?
Yes, if you want to change a class, please email Glenny with your request and she'll help you with it.  There is a fee for each request, and there are no changes after a specified date (see the Policies page for each retreat)

What if I have to cancel later?
Please see the Policies page on the website for cancellation policies.

I see that some classes have a “materials fee”—do I pay that directly to the instructor, or when I register?
The materials fees are paid at the time of registration.  The only exception to that is at Asilomar, CA, where the materials fee is payable directly to the instructor on the day of the class.

I keep hearing about ‘trades’—what are they, and do I have to do them?
Trades are typically small items made by you (or packets of goodies that you put together) that you bring and trade with others who have made things.  They’re not required, but are a fun way to share your art with others.  Trading can take place anywhere and everywhere at the retreat—just ask if anyone’s trading, and you’re sure to get a response!  For more info on the types of trades people do, please see the Files section of the yahoo group.

What’s the deal with the “secret item”, and what do I do with it?
Attendees who sign up for two or more all-day classes will receive a “secret item” in the mail, which is related to that year’s theme.  The idea is to have fun, be creative, and ‘alter it’, then bring it with you to the retreat, where we’ll have them all on display.  In the past, Somerset Studio has featured some of the art in their magazine.

Can my child attend classes? 
We welcome mature teens, 14 years or older, paying the regular adult fee.

My spouse is coming with me but not taking any classes—can he/she just hang out in the class with me? 
Sorry, only paid attendees are allowed in the classes. 

Can my spouse and/or children attend the vendor event? 
The events in Hampton, VA and Portland, OR are open to the public for a $10 fee at the door (children under the age of 14 are free).  There is no fee for registered attendees.  The Asilomar vendor event is restricted to attendees only.

Do you have any special events planned, in addition to the workshops? 
Each venue may have special events, exclusive to that location.  Please check the Activities page on the website, under each venue.

Are there meal packages available?
We don't offer meal packages, but each hotel may offer buffet meals for our group.  Specific information regarding any meals will be posted on the homepage of the venue you’re attending.

Is there a shuttle from the airport to the hotel?
Some hotels offer a shuttle and some do not.  For Portland, there is a shuttle that can be contacted from the baggage claim area.  For Virginia, the hotel does not have a shuttle, but there are private shuttle companies; info will be posted on the Activities page when it becomes available.

How do I find out about shops, restaurants, etc. in the area?
We have a database set up for each venue that lists thing to do in the area.  The database may be found on our Yahoo group, so please join if you haven’t already done so! 

How do I go about finding a roommate to share a room?
The best way to do that is to post a message to the yahoo group.

Will I receive a confirmation in the mail?
Beginning with the 2008 retreats, your online registration IS your confirmation, so be sure you print out a copy and keep it for your records.  We will NOT be sending additional confirmations in the mail.

How can I keep in touch with what’s going on?
Join the Yahoo group!  It’s the best way to ‘chat’ with others who are going, get info about the event, and just soak up all the creative energy!   Please visit www.groups.yahoo.com/group/artandsoulretreat to join.