Still moody over Penland

When you have a Penland experience, it's not easy to get over it. I was there for two weeks for a book arts class that focused on image and content as well as a few new bookbinding structures. But it almost doesn't matter what class you're in, the air there is rich with creativity, energy and generosity. Every conversation at meals touches at some point on the process of creativity...usually personal. And there is always someone who is willing to offer support, guidance or helpful feedback. (One of my studio colleagues would approach you and simply say "consultation, please" when she wanted to discuss a page or an idea. That always made me smile.)
This is the fifth time in 8 or 9 years that I've gone away for a book arts session. The first one was a simple little program in the Catskills. I came home and felt sort of catatonic for about four days until I burst into tears one night and realized that while I was there no one categorized me as anyone but me...I wasn't a daughter, sister, radio producer or even a friend. I was just me and it was the most liberating experience in the world. That's still one of the things I treasure about these programs.
But Penland is my favorite and if I could return every 3 or 4 years, I would consider myself very lucky. I'm not quite sure what the recipe is that makes it work so well. It could be its history, its role in the community of crafters of North Carolina, the diversity of its participants, or more likely the food and the scenery. You're in a bubble while you're there...no Paris Hilton or war in Iraq. The world spins on while you focus on paper, ideas, color and technique with only a break 3 times a day for amazing meals down at the Pines. After you finish eating, you may walk through one of the 14 studios on campus, go down to the meadows to greet the llamas or sit on one of the porch rocking chairs to gaze at the view. But pretty soon something in your studio calls you back and you spend the rest of the day (before the next meal) working out an idea.
But it's Friday now...6 days since I've been home and time to put away everything I've shipped home. I'll see my lovely friend Sally tonight to show her my books. She's been encouraging artists for 60 years and I know we'll have a stimulating conversation about my work.