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An Exploration of Art Journaling

Location icon
53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA, USA
Date
May 22 - 24, 2026

About this Retreat

Your Guides

Details of this retreat

An art journal encourages an introspective way to explore and communicate thoughts and feelings.

This retreat is an opportunity to slow down and respond to what emerges from the creative process. There’s an emphasis on intuition and playful exploration using a variety of art materials and techniques that naturally promote a sense of emotional well-being. This program is accessible to all levels of artistic experience including those who feel they have no ability at all. Openness and curiosity is all that’s needed.

All art supplies and guidance in how to use them are provided.

Friday
3:00p Check-in
3:00-5:45 Arrival
5:45-6:00 Welcome
6:00-7:00 Dinner
7:15-7:45 Opening Circle
7:45-9:00 Materials and Techniques demos

Saturday
8:00-9:00 Breakfast
9:15-9:30 Morning reading and meditation
9:30-12:00 Begin Journal
12:00-1:00 Lunch
1:15-1:30 Group Check-in and reading
1:30-5:00 Continue Journal
5:00-6:00 Group sharing and reflection
6:00-7:00 Dinner

*The studio space will be open after dinner

Sunday
8:00-9:00 Breakfast
9:15-10:00 Farewell Session
10:00a Check-out

Commuter Pricing is for three days and includes supper on Friday, as well as lunch and supper on Saturday.

Getting Here

Location icon Genesis Spiritual Center, 53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA, USA

Accommodation

Program Price - Single Occupancy
Program Price - Double Occupancy (Requires Two People)
Program Price - Weekend Commuter

Customer Reviews

4.86 out of 5.0 average rating

5.0
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Be With an Open Heart
I spent time with JoAnn Bourquard a few years ago when I was on a day-long retreat at Genesis Spiritual Center. We meditated together and I opened my heart to her for spiritual guidance. She deeply listened, attentive and present with me, as I shared some difficult challenges I was having in my life. I clearly remember her gently and kindly responding with a phrase, "you have your work cut out for you". I have accepted that gift from her, without even being entirely certain what she meant, as part of my daily spiritual practice since then.
This most recent Zoom experience with her, dedicated to reflecting on this season of Lent and what it means for each of us who were there on the screen, was also a gift. Guided by JoAnn, we had opportunities to pray, meditate, and share aloud about our daily spiritual practice, whatever it is. All experiences validated and accepted. No judgement if we weren't Catholic or even Christian. I am a Buddhist practitioner and I felt completely welcomed. I offered to share with the group a poem I had written for Lent and read it tearfully. God and the Universe are indeed good to me when I open my heart to them. Blessings, Jennifer D.

1.0
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Lenten Conversation with the Psalms
Due to the blizzard, I was unable to attend

5.0
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The Wisdom of St. Francis
Simon and David led us on a beautiful experience of St. Francis and St. Clare. The music, sharing, dialogue and discussion all helped to create a strong bond between participants. Genesis is a place of peace, hope and healing, and I could feel it the moment I arrived. Thank you to the staff for their hospitality and kindness.

5.0
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Wise woman Retreat
The best part of this retreat was connecting with the amazing women who shared this retreat with me. It is so affirming and healing to be in a group of mature women who listen with their hearts and all their wisdom and very little judgment. The Genesis Spiritual Center is very welcoming and accommodating and made you feel at home. The leader of the retreat set the stage and then allowed us to fly. I am so glad that I took the time to go.

5.0
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Perfect
I had a wonderful first visit during a weekend retreat.
The food and hospitality were just right. Clean, comfortable rooms, comfie bed and pillows, too. Love having a sink in the room. The program I attended was well planned and entirely worth the trip. I plan to return as frequently as I can for future events. Thank you!

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