Roben-Marie Smith Retreat 2027

What Students Can Expect to Learn and Explore

Mark Making & Painted Papers
Dive into Roben-Marie’s favorite mark-making techniques using neutrals, bold colors, and unexpected tools. We’ll explore various mediums to create a treasure trove of painted artist papers that will become the foundation for our book creations and future projects, including the popular “paint and pass” sessions where you’ll create beautiful collaborative papers with your fellow retreat-mates.

Mixed Media Collage Techniques
Learn Roben-Marie’s approach to layering papers and adding depth to your mixed media works through simple collage techniques.

Textiles & Stitching Integration
Learn easy methods for blending fabric and thread into your mixed media journals. You’ll also experience Roben-Marie’s signature beeswax technique—the one that has everyone at her retreats crowding around the slow cooker, laughing and creating the most beautiful, unique patterns on fabric. (Fair warning: this technique is so addictive, you might find yourself asking “Is the wax ready?” more times than you can count!)

Handmade Journals & Simple Bookbinding
Create beautiful, functional journals using simple bookbinding techniques that you’ll use long after you return home. These will become treasured keepsakes of your French creative adventure.

Cultural Excursions & Creative Gathering
Our days will blend studio time with inspiring cultural excursions to historic landmarks and visits to local markets, where we’ll gather natural elements, vintage papers, and unique finds to incorporate into our work.

Creative Expression & Joyful Play
Throughout the retreat, you’ll be encouraged to experiment, play, and embrace the beautiful imperfections that make your art uniquely yours. This is about process, not perfection—about finding joy in every mark you make and sharing that creative energy with newfound friends.

Your French Creative Adventure

Picture yourself playing and experimenting with a variety of mediums in a sun-drenched studio filled with easy laughter and generous creative spirit. Imagine wandering cobblestone streets collecting inspiration, then returning to a space where every “Can I use this?” is met with an enthusiastic “Yes, absolutely!” Picture evenings filled with delicious local cuisine and the kind of deep creative conversations that spark new ideas and lasting friendships.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned artist, this retreat offers a nurturing space where inspiration thrives, boundaries dissolve, and artistic friendships flourish. The art brings us together, but it’s the connection, laughter, and shared creative joy that will stay with you long after you return home.

You’ll leave France not just with a stack of handmade journals, painted papers, and custom fabrics, but with a heart full of creative memories, renewed confidence, and techniques you’ll treasure for years to come.