Artist-led retreats in a scenic New England setting.

At The Smiley Manse, our aim is to provide you with a creativity boosting setting and incredible teachers for a retreat experience you’ll never forget!

2027 RETREATS

Painting Winter Whites with Michelle Shain
February 22-26, 2027

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Jewelry & Other Stories with Maryellen Kim
June 1-5, 2027

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The Art of Joy with Helen Dardik
June 14-18, 2027

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Chasing Rainbows with Jessica Swift
June 28-July 2, 2027

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Joyful Junkin’ with Lori Siebert
July 11-17, 2027

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Forage to Fabric with Stacie Bloomfield
July 26-30, 2027

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Build Your Rainbow with Jill Labieniec
September 20-24, 2027

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  • "My time at The Smiley Manse was charming and memorable. The junk assemblage workshop with Lori Seibert was a fantastic week of creativity and joy and the barn at The Smiley was a delightful & well provisioned space. Meals were delicious and The Smiley hosts were welcoming and generous. I can’t wait to go back!"

    – Krista
    2025 retreat participant

  • "For someone who's never been to a retreat I was able to get to know people without it being overwhelming. The property was magical and made me feel like a kid again. I also enjoyed the hands-on aspect of collage and that it felt accessible for someone who is new to making. I'd love to attend again!"

    – Kristen
    2024 retreat participant

  • "I’ve spent lots of time and money on my art business and this was one for the best things I have ever done for myself. I didn't come away from this with a single thing that I would have changed or done differently. I just loved every single minute. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

    – Sarah
    2023 retreat participant

  • "I will remember the feeling of working in a room of fellow artists. Creativity was palpable and flowing in the barn. I also really appreciated the licensing Q & A with Jennifer and Shannon. It quickly turned into an "ask me anything" and the genuine sharing and lack of gatekeeping was refreshing."

    – Anjana
    2025 retreat participant

  • "I loved so much about this retreat... Being surrounded by professional artists and piles of art supplies, laughing over the idea of a sweaty bra business & learning from professional illustrators, seeing the potential life that art could bring, the peace of Vermont, and making new friends!"

    – Gabriella
    2024 retreat participant

  • "Too many great times to mention! I loved the first day when we sat outside under the trees and got to know one another. Also Dylan is just such a good teacher – I admire how she led us and had a great time painting the projects. Also, the food was FABULOUS!!"

    - Lori
    2023 retreat participant

  • "I hope I remember everything! Most importantly, setting aside time when I never set time aside for anything (especially myself), and becoming fully immersed into a practice. Pressure is off and the creative atmosphere is contagious – I now understand why creatives enjoy retreats."

    – Abbey
    2024 retreat participant

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