Hello, friends! As autumn makes her appearance at The Smiley, in addition to the excitement around our official 2027 retreat season announcement—coming soon!—we're reflecting on all of the wonderful humans who graced us with their presence, kindness, and creativity over the last few months. Today we'd like to shine a spotlight on YOU 🌞 In the coming months we'll highlight a few Smiley alumni in the hopes that you can connect with and find inspiration in their work and stories just as we have. Without further ado, meet Anna Pellegrino, the artist behind Spot Girl Design:
Committing time to making, playing, learning, exploring creativity is what I love about attending art retreats. At The Smiley Manse, having all of the details (supplies! amenities! wonderful food!) taken care of in a beautiful, comfortable, inspiring location makes the experience a true vacation. I’ve been to three Smiley Manse retreats and will likely be back for more in the future, as Jennifer keeps booking amazing teachers!
Long after my time at a Smiley retreat, I continue to use new materials and techniques. Artworks made at or inspired by the retreats have been incorporated into my regular art practice, including exhibitions and new designs. I've also hosted some local workshops incorporating the casual, friendly atmosphere of art making playtime. And I love keeping up with my new artist friends, both online and in person!
Following the retreats, I was surprised by how much came back with me into daily life: renewed confidence, learned techniques from watching artists at work, prompts that push me in new directions, pages and pages of artwork that didn’t exist before, and reigniting a regular practice of art making.
My favorite part of a retreat is how everyone is in open mode, ready to connect and create. The atmosphere is immediately welcoming and comfortable. Artists are magical!
We agree, 100%! Thank you Ann, for sharing your story and experience. We hope you all enjoyed hearing from a fellow creative. Stay tuned for more Smiley alumni spotlights and for the announcement of our artist teachers and workshop themes for 2027.
Talk soon!
Kindly,
Jennifer