A few years ago when I came up with the concept behind The Living Studio I had hopes of traveling with women, connecting with different cities and creating outside the studio.

My heart’s desire was to encourage women to get out of their comfort zone and to implement daily practicing.

I wanted us to become those we had maybe admired for years in the parks, museums, cafes.  To become those that were creating whenever the opportunity arose.

As of this date I now have had two Living Studio retreats.  The first one was in Bellagio, Italy and the second one just finished in Savannah, Georgia.

I learn each time more about myself, my creativity and where I want to take The Living Studio.

I also am reminded that we need this. We need this creating wherever we go and to not limit ourselves to our studios.

I see the difference it is making when we know…really know…that our creativity needs to be honored and nurtured.

Here is a peek into our week in Savannah, Georgia…

I came in early and was able to get away for the morning and enjoy the beach on Tybee Island.  When there was a snowstorm going on in Colorado this was a beautiful change of scenery!

Before I share our week I have to share our hotel!  When Kathie (my partner in crime that helped make the retreat come to life) and I saw this hotel we KNEW this had to be the location for The Living Studio Savannah!  Welcome to The Brice!  Seriously, the staff was outstanding and the whole place was an artist’s dream!

Our first full day together started with a rainy walking tour of Savannah. I think next time we will take the trolley:-)

At least I had a cute umbrella and some goofballs to hang out with.

After a wet morning we decided to create in our pajamas. Maybe I was the only one that did that but let’s just act like everyone did!

Our days were full of gorgeous shops, sites, architecture, food (oh, the food), creating and a lot of laughter.

This was an incredible group of women!

One of the highlights for me during a Living Studio retreat is to spend time separate from one another creating in the city.

This day we spent time creating in Forsyth Park and I know this time was just as meaningful and heart changing to the girls.

I am not a journaler like many of the artists I love and admire. My journal is where I play, make mistakes and practice. Usually it is only for me to see. I think everyone should have a safe place to explore and make mistakes where you don’t have to worry about anyone looking over your shoulder.  That is what daily practicing should be about…no matter what your creativity is.

We had so many good days but one of my favorite days of exploring was when we had a tour of Bonaventure Cemetary.

It has been many years since I have been in this cemetery but it was just as inspiring as ever.

Have I mentioned the food? Oh, I have?

I love being a collector of patterns wherever I travel!  It is just such good stuff for creating later.

One of my favorite days was when we went to the SCAD museum and we were even able to sneak into an illustration class and do some quick sketches along with all of the art students.

That was a day when my heart was so full and I felt like we all went home with an extra special treasure!

It didn’t hurt that we also found an antique store on our way to lunch.

Pretty much the best cappuccino I have ever had!  Doesn’t hurt that I also have paint all over my hands.

The week went so fast and our days were so full of good stuff. When it comes down to it this photo makes me so happy because it was all about women connecting with themselves and others.

I am still processing all the goodness of our time in Savannah and already my brain is busy with ideas for how to make the next one even better!

I have a Living Studio Normandy coming up in October that is sold out but you can email me at contact@jeanneoliverdesigns.com to get on the wait list.

The next state side Living Studio retreat will be in Seattle, WA next year.  If you would like to be notified when registration opens for that retreat please email me at contact@jeanneoliverdesigns.com.

If you are looking for other retreats this year I encourage you to check out retreats that are being hosted by my good friend Kathie Vezzani!  She has some beauties coming up!

She helped me bring The Living Studio Savannah to life and you will love all of her gatherings!