Although this summer didn’t turn out as we all would’ve expected, there are many new things that I got to experience that I wouldn’t have otherwise, this art retreat being one of them. For me, art has been one of the main factors contributing to my happiness throughout these tough times, except for my family and my dog, and hence my decision to take on this art retreat.
During the first couple of days of July, some of my friends and family took off to the Santani Wellness Retreat & Spa situated near the Kandy Railway Station. This resort is located in the midst of a pristine jungle, where you’re surrounded by silence and nature. The location of the art retreat was perfect, as it allowed me to stop my daily life and just be, and it also increased my creative juices and let me express myself in a way I wouldn’t have been able to in the constraint of my house.
The art retreat lasted 3 days, in which we were taught different techniques including some with charcoal, ink, acrylics, and even nature itself. Although the creations we made turned out well, that wasn’t the main point of the activity. Instead, as I mentioned before, it was an opportunity to express ourselves and the feelings we have endured throughout these unpredictable times, to which the art portion was simply a catalyst. On top of that, I got to interact with people whom I hadn’t met yet, and we shared our experiences living in this country through our art, it was truly special.
Above you can see some of the creations we made. Each art piece had it’s meaning and it’s hard work behind it, making them that much more meaningful, but like I said the sole purpose was to explore our creative side and let ourselves be, rather than creating said masterpieces.
Overall, this retreat allowed me to explore that ‘creative’ side of me, which I wasn’t able to much throughout my schooling period necessarily, or at least not in the midst of a beautiful resort in the midst of the forest. I’m glad I had the opportunity to do this and it also gave me ideas for my IB Art expo.