Melinda Joy

The Art of Impermanence explores the process of change and becoming, of the ephemerality of our everyday experience, through the lens of creativity and contemplative arts practice. Through a combination of daily mindfulness meditation practice and creative arts exercises, we will explore the vulnerability inherent in our existence as sentient beings, observing how all phenomena arise and pass away. Using an array of artistic media, including writing, photography, movement, sound, and visual arts, we’ll awaken to the fluid nature of life from the loving container and lush gardens of Casa Werma in Patzcuaro, Mexico.

This interactive, experiential presentation and workshop will explore the creative process in songwriting and storytelling, from ideation to finished composition. Drawing on material from her two publicly released albums as well as works in progress, visiting artist Melinda Rothouse will describe her songwriting process and perform several of her songs, tracing their development from lyric inspirations and musical snippets to final completed works. The workshop will include several experiential writing and sound improvisation exercises designed to inspire participants' own creativity.

Personal Sustainability and Creativity through Writing and Contemplative Arts with Melinda Rothouse & Katherine Semler Girona, Spain (outside Barcelona) October 9-14, 2023

Ready to replenish your energetic reservoir? In this world of speed and burnout, it’s increasingly vital to pause and rejuvenate ourselves. Join us this fall at Mas Estrellas, a beautiful retreat space surrounded by nature in rural Girona, Spain (outside of Barcelona). In this retreat we’ll cultivate our personal sustainability by reconnecting with creativity and joy. Each day will include group discussion and meals, writing and contemplative arts activities, as well as plenty of quiet time and personal reflection in nature. We’ll tend to our physical selves through walking, hiking, biking, gardening and/or yoga.

More details and registration at https://www.melindarothouse.com/events.html (scroll down to Spain retreat listing)