Valley Fine Arts retreat set Sept. 8-10

Coming up is the large Matanuska-Susitna Valley painterly event on Sept. 8-10 in Hatcher Pass — known well for its beauty at a prime colorful time of year. The Valley Fine Arts Association is organizing and hosting this three day on-site retreat at the North Star Bible Camp.

Judy Vars is the President of the Valley Fine Arts Association and says this is the only artist retreat offered in the Valley. She adds that it isn’t only for the experienced painter.

“It’s inclusive and all people are invited. Anyone who has a love of art, is an artist and is welcome to join us,” she said, adding that some people are reluctant to call themselves artists but if one enjoys art, the title is meaningless.

Judy explains that sometimes it is difficult for people to carve out a dedicated time to paint and this is one opportunity to relax and focus on one’s art. For three days one can be around other artists and concentrate on the joy of painting.

This is the third annual retreat and this year it will be held at Twelve Mile Lake on the Willow Fishhook Road. It is at a camp which includes all facilities and cabins. It is an opportunity to meet with and learn from other artists and learn new techniques.

There are three scheduled workshops with well known professional artists:

Jennifer Bowman is an outstanding artist from Washington state. She will be conducting a two day acrylic workshop. Her paintings are known for the brightness and color palette.

Earl Rider is a beautiful plein aire artist from Anchorage. He will be conducting a one day oil workshop outside and “on location” at the camp.

Karen Mattson is a longtime Alaskan artist from Willow. She is best known for her bold color floral scenes. She will be conducting a half-day workshop teaching watercolor.

In addition to signing up for the workshops there is plenty of time for painting and working on personal projects, individually or with the group.

Gourmet food is a part of the retreat, along with fresh roasted coffee and fresh fruit all day. Paddle boats, canoes, hammocks, and hiking trails are available along with a bonfire at the lakeside ampitheater. Judy says there will also be art-themed movies, still life setups, live models and critique sessions. Many large art supply companies are sponsors of the event and all participants will go home with a generous bag of art supply samples.

The price of the retreat is $350 for the full three days which includes lodging and meals and all activities. Workshops are a small additional cost and are a personal choice.

Judy encourages interested people to register quickly by contacting Valley Fine Arts Association on Facebook or at www.valleyfineartsassociation.org. Or, she adds, If you have questions please call Linda Peters at 746-3705 or 907.982.9209.