2020 Theme: Light for a Dark Time ~ Creating in Community
Why, and how can we courageously create in the midst of a time that may feel dark and full of frustration? Where do we go for encouragement and strength? How can we encourage others and build a community together that overcomes the darkness?
Join dozens of creators from across Colorado to explore these and other questions surrounding the topic of community -- as we seek to be able to meet God better in our work, create art that touch lives, and deepen relationships through our craft. We'll cover topics like:
creating with courage
finding and sharing in meaningful community
the inspiring story of "The Inklings"
and more!
About the Retreat
Artists engage with God uniquely, and so need unique spaces for refreshment and retreat. This is our fourth year offering this gathering. For one beautiful day each year, artists and art-lovers explore the way God uses the imagination to enrich our approach to Him. Local pastors and artists help guide us through spiritual practices and reflect on spiritual truths.
The beautiful outdoor Colorado setting will offer a safe and enjoyable day for everyone who can attend. We will spend as much time on the lawn as possible, and will enjoy a boxed lunch on the grounds. With room to roam and walk through the beautiful Colorado landscape at Glen Eyrie castle, we will encourage artists to take time to simply be, whether that be sketching in a cozy armchair, or walking the stunning grounds. From refreshing ways to approach Scripture, to time to reflect and create, this day will help us use our imaginations to engage with God in new ways, renewing our sense of hope and instilling in us new courage and love for others.
If weather moves us indoors, we will gather in the Great Hall and follow safe guidelines for seating at a distance and wearing masks in the hallways while still enjoying the beauty of the castle and grounds.
This is not a workshop where artists will be left with a list of ways to improve, but rather an invitation for people to receive and reflect on the many ways God imaginatively loves us and calls us to use our imaginations in community as a means of drawing others to Him.
Feedback on Past Years
"God met me in a place of deep need."
"That was truly life-changing for me! I’m going to be thinking on that for a very long time. I felt a new infusion of encouragement and a new strength and resolve to follow through with some of the things that God has told me to do."
"So precious and powerful."
"It made me realize again that the 'office' of the artist is something for me to take seriously and joyfully."
"The gift God has given me to create art is both an opportunity and a responsibility. I am even more inspired to continue to 'stay the course' in pursuing my art to glorify God. I'm inspired by the Anselm Society as a whole pursuing the mission to revive the arts in the Church."