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The Call to Create

A 2-Day Retreat with Ellie Harold

August 17 & 18 with Optional Add-On Studio Day August 19

Stuck Artist Syndrome. Do you want to create art—make paintings, write a book, play music, whatever—but don't seem to be getting anywhere?  Do you sense there is something deeper in you that's seeking expression in you but can't quite figure out what it is and how to get it out? Is your soul's longing making the status quo more uncomfortable?

You're not alone! Creators in every medium and at all levels of skill and experience encounter inertia, or what's often referred to as "creative block." Masking underlying boredom, depression, anxiety, inertia deprives a creator of the joy of meaningful production. Taking a class aimed at improving technique sometimes shakes things loose; or you might find comfort in a support group or, in some cases, by taking a break altogether from pursuing creative aims. While all of these—including the ample distraction of social media—may provide temporary relief, frustrations lurk in the shadows. You have something to contribute and you know it!

Have you been Called? A more permanent resolution to the challenge of inertia comes of understanding and aligning with the spiritual purpose behind your desire to create. When you know why you must create art—you have been called!—you'll come to know what art you and you alone can make. You'll be pulled by your purpose to use your original voice; the one that seeks to sing (paint, draw, write) through you will lead you to do the art that is yours to do with energy and enthusiasm. 

The Call to Create Retreat. Discovering a deeper purpose is an individual quest, the most important one you might undertake in a lifetime. Ellie Harold is pleased to offer The Call to Create Retreat as a focused opportunity to explore your creative life. With an eye to discerning your artistic purpose, you'll have two full days away from usual life distractions as well as the benefit of Ellie's firsthand experience of prolific creating as a visual artist, author, and metaphysical practitioner. Using a series of exercises designed to bring you in touch with your most essential creative Self, Ellie acts as a catalyst for discerning your Call, accessing your innate creative power, and taking next steps on your creative path. Come prepared to dive deep! 

No Time to Waste! Plan to devote the entire two days and one night to the Retreat. Retreat days will start at 9:00 a.m. and end between 4:30 and 6:00 p.m. with a lunch break. An extensive homework assignment to be completed in the evening of the first day is a vital part of the Retreat. To maintain an atmosphere of Retreat, you'll be asked to refrain from using your device from the start of the Retreat through to the end, and to observe silence for certain designated periods. (If you are traveling to Frankfort with a partner, encourage him or her to also participate in the Retreat so you won't be distracted, or you might choose to come on your own. If you are local, do your best to arrange privacy in your home for the duration of the Retreat.)

Optional Add-On Studio Day. Spend a day in the painting studio with Ellie after The Call to Create Retreat! You'll have a full day to mess around with art materials, ask questions about art practices/techniques, and receive general or individual mentoring. Ellie will also demonstrate her intuitive approach to painting.  

Cost for The Call to Create Retreat (August 17 &18): Early Bird: $250 if you register by June 15, 2026, $300 after June 15. Cost of Add-On Studio Day (August 19) is $125. Cost covers retreat facilitation and all materials. It does not include accommodations or food which are readily available within walking distance of the Retreat. If you opt for the Add-On Day, plan to bring your own art supplies. 

Payment: Please send a check to cover registration fee along with a short note indicating what you'd like to get from the Retreat to:

Ellie Harold, P.O.Box 1087, Frankfort, MI 49635. 

Once your check has been processed, you'll receive an email confirmation and suggestions to begin your engagement with the Retreat process immediately. 

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation with full refund minus $50 processing fee available until July 1. Cancellation minus $75 processing fee until August 1. No refunds for any reason after August 1, 2026. 

Questions? Please contact Ellie with your questions to learn more about whether The Call to Create Retreat would be helpful to you.