Junk Assemblage with Lori Siebert

DATES: July 7-11, 2025
FEE: $1990


Lori Siebert LOVES a good junk or antique store visit. And… even more… turning the used and well loved into something new and magical! She has taught her junk bird class several times and it is a TRUE FAVORITE!!

Come, bring some treasures and learn how she curates and creates using her assemblage techniques.

Geared towards all levels, Lori will share the process of a upcycling materials into new masterpieces!! She’ll also show attendees how she gathers inspiration from all kinds of new and used materials and incorporates them into her work.

Junk Assemblage Retreat Schedule

  • 4:30 pm | Wine + cheese mixer

    6:00 pm | Welcome dinner

  • 9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast

    10:00 am | Morning trip to a local antique mall

    – break for lunch –

    2:00 pm | Afternoon art session

    6:00 pm | Simple in-studio dinner

    – post-dinner studio time is available –

  • 8:30 am | Early studio access

    9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast

    10:00 am | Morning art session

    – break for lunch –

    2:00 pm | Afternoon art session

    6:00 pm | Dinner at local restaurant*

    – post-dinner studio time is available –

  • 8:30 am | Early studio access

    9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast

    10:00 am | Morning art session

    – break for lunch –

    2:00 pm | Afternoon art session

    6:00 pm | Dinner at The Smiley

    – post-dinner studio time is available –

  • 8:30 am | Early studio access

    9:30 am | Light in-studio breakfast

    10:00 am | Discussion and sharing

    1:00 pm | Light lunch & goodbyes

    – optional studio time until 5pm –

*Not included in retreat fee. Date of dinner out also subject to restaurant availability.

About Lori Siebert


When asked to define her artistic style, Lori Siebert says that she likes to be a bit of a chameleon. Constantly experimenting with different styles and mediums feeds her insatiable curiosity. She has a very whimsical design sense and loves to play with color to give each collection that and she designs its own unique personality.

She started taking private art lessons at the young age of 7 and continued to study art throughout high school. This lead to a degree in graphic design from the University of Cincinnati. She opened her own design firm just 3 years out of college in 1987. Her firm, Olika Studios, has developed branding and design programs for influential clients such as Target, Bath & Body Works, Nickelodeon and Universal Studios.

Lori began the art licensing arm of her business 15 years ago and now works with several top manufactures in the gift and home decor industry. Her client list includes Demdaco, Creative Co-op, Studio M, Lang and many more. Her licensed products have been sold through many key retailers and small gift shops throughout the United States and Canada.

She has been featured in “Where Women Create” and “Where Women Create Business.” She is also the co- founder of ArtBizJam and ArtBizJam Abundance, which provide helpful business tips and networking opportunities for women artists. And, she hosts and teaches at several creative retreats each year in Europe and the USA.

“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 Lori retreat participant

Where You’ll Be Creating

Springfield, Vermont
The Smiley Manse Barn


Nestled up behind the main property is the barn. This turn of the last century post-and-beam construction with a slate roof that rises to a massive walled cupola, the barn is noted as one of the finest carriage barns in the region. Learn more about the history of The Smiley here.

Inside, you’ll find large flat work tables, each a place to explore and express your individual creativity, yet the atmosphere encourages connection and dialogue. Whether it’s the sound of a paintbrush sweeping across the page or folks discussing technique over coffee, the barn serves as a meeting ground for artists of all levels to create and build lasting relationships, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

We strive to create a space where the act of making art is as much about building community as it is about self-expression. 

Join us for a chance to unwind and create in an idyllic setting.

Your Retreat Includes:


  • Custom designed art curriculum by Lori

  • 3 days of creative instruction

  • Extra studio access before/after each full day

  • All meals (except 1 dinner out)

  • Welcome wine mixer serenaded by a local musician

  • Tea, coffee, and snacks always available in the barn

  • Usage of our art supply stash during the retreat

  • Private FB group before/after the retreat

What’s Not Included:


  • Accommodations – there are several great options nearby!

  • Transportation to/from The Smiley

  • 1 dinner out at a local restaurant

Have more questions about the retreat first? Please review our policies & our FAQ page for lots more details.