DATES: July 6-12, 2026
FEE: $2,500
Signup Deadline: April 7
The signup deadline is to ensure the retreat moves forward.
Junk Assemblage with Lori Siebert
Lori Siebert can never resist a good junk shop or flea market find—and the quirkier, the better! What she loves most is giving these well-loved treasures a brand-new life. This time, she’s bringing her playful spirit to junk flowers and junk bouquets—because who says a bouquet has to be made of petals and stems?
In this fun workshop, Lori will show you how to turn buttons, bobbles, springs, spools, and all kinds of unexpected bits into fabulous flowers and funky bouquets. No green thumb required—just a sense of curiosity and a love of making!
All levels are welcome, and you’re encouraged to bring along some of your own “junk gems” to mix in with Lori’s stash. By the end, you’ll walk away with a whimsical bouquet that will never wilt—and lots of new ideas for seeing everyday objects in a whole new way.
Junk Assemblage Retreat Schedule
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4:30 pm | Wine + cheese mixer
6:00 pm | Welcome dinner
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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 –
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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 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 –
-
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 –
-
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 | 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.
“The workshop retreat fed my artistic soul & I really did not want to leave. I made great friends, learned new techniques & created wonderful pieces of art. The food, atmosphere, setting were all spectacular!”
— Dee
2025 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
5.5 days of creative instruction (including 2 outings)
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