Why Creative Breaks Matter: Finding Clarity Away From the Studio.
Every artist needs a break—whether it’s a retreat, a workshop, a getaway with like-minded friends, or a quiet afternoon alone in the woods. The format doesn’t matter. What matters is creating space to clear your mind, reconnect with yourself, and recharge your creative energy.
I’ve always loved being an entrepreneur just as much as being an artist. So spending three days in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley with friends who understand both worlds felt like a little slice of heaven. We meditated, built vision boards, photographed Norwegian Fjord Horses, tackled grant applications, and had deep conversations about our work and direction.
Those few days away gave me something I didn’t expect: a roadmap. I returned with clarity, perspective, and a renewed connection to my creative purpose. Stepping away helped me hit the mental “pause button,” reorganize my priorities, and weave my loose ends back together.
It had been nearly 35 years since I’d last created a vision board. At first, nothing in the magazines felt “right,” but I gathered small pieces anyway and continued assembling them at home. Slowly, the board began to take shape—becoming a visual representation of everything I want for my new studio space. The process itself became a source of clarity.
Time away offers room to think, dream, and reimagine what’s possible. It reminds us to believe in ourselves, stay curious, and keep moving forward.
And it gives us gratitude… in my case, for Suzanne and Kat—two incredibly supportive, creative friends who have become my true “posse.” We’ve known each other through various workshops, but it was the first time we were all together. What a gift.
Of course, no retreat gives us every answer—but sometimes it gives us the one we’ve been needing most.
Before choosing a retreat, workshop, or even a solo walk in the woods, consider your intention:
Are you looking for rest or challenge?
Inner reflection or outward exploration?
New skills or renewed clarity?
Whatever you need, the choice is yours—and the space you create for yourself will always guide you back home.
Ready to reconnect with your creativity?
If you’re craving clarity, inspiration, and a deeper connection with your art, you’ll love my immersive photography trip in Ireland. Step away from the noise, slow down, and rediscover your creative voice in one of the most soulful landscapes in the world. Learn more about the Ireland retreat here>>
I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. What do you do to retreat?
Please pass this along to your friends who might be interested in photo encaustic.
Be well….be creative,
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P.S. Click to learn more about photo encaustic classes, courses, and workshops.
Approximately once a month, my mother, husband and friends get together at someone’s house for sew day. We’re quilters, so we work on our own projects or help with someone else’s. it helps to see a project that needs progress. About once a year, my husband and I go for a few days to another town and quilt or paint or both. It’s good to get away from our usual routine and demands to see more of the big picture. Good luck with your progress. I’m going to steal the planning idea you mentioned.
I love that you get together on a monthly basis. It’s so crucial to get feedback from people that you trust. It’s just as important as getting away from the usual routine. And yes, please steal any ideas that work for you:)