Rekindle
Three days of art-making, unhurried quiet, and good company — for the part of you that has been waiting to be picked back up.
Things you need to know
Dates
Friday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. Next dates announced to the list first.
Where
The Haven — Susie’s light-filled studio in Chico, California, close to Bidwell Park.
Group size
A small circle, kept deliberately small so everyone is genuinely seen.
Investment
Includes all materials and meals together. Collective members get first pick of spots.
Rekindle is for people in their third act who can feel that something has gone quiet — the creative part of you that got set down while you were busy building a life for everyone else.
Come if you're grieving, or between chapters, or simply tired of waiting for permission. Come if you've never touched a paintbrush. Every supply you could need is already here.
You don’t need to be an artist.
You just need a free weekend, and a willingness to begin.
The Schedule
A rhythm, not a schedule — there is always room to step out, rest, or keep going when the making has hold of you.
Arrive and soften
- 3:00 pmArrive at The Haven, choose your spot at the table, tea and settling in.
- 4:00 pmOpening circle — who we are, what we’re each carrying in.
- 5:00 pmFirst invitation. Hands in the paint before the inner critic wakes up.
- 7:00 pmDinner together, unhurried.
Go deeper
- 9:00 amSlow morning, coffee, and a gentle warm-up page.
- 10:00 amThe long session — the heart of the weekend, with Susie guiding.
- 1:00 pmLunch, then open studio. Nap, walk, or keep making.
- 4:00 pmTechnique playshop — a new way in when you feel stuck.
- 7:00 pmDinner, then optional evening studio for the night owls.
Gather it up
- 9:00 amMorning pages and quiet.
- 10:30 amGallery walk — everyone’s work laid out, witnessed without critique.
- 12:00 pmClosing circle. What you’re taking home, and what you’re leaving here.
- 1:00 pmFinal lunch and slow goodbyes.
Times are indicative — every circle finds its own pace, and Susie follows the room.
Testimonials
“When you are working and creating in flow, all of the things around you tend to disappear and your focus is on something that feels like it’s being channeled. You end up with something that’s been created not entirely by your effort but by some collective unconscious.”
“Joy feels like resistance to me. It’s a form of resistance that is kind of the antidote to what’s happening in the world.”
“Practices like art and meditation are ways to resist being overwhelmed or stifled. Finding a supportive community helps, as well.”
“That’s the best part of life — using creativity and tapping in — it opens your mind to everything else.”
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING
Bring yourself. Everything else is here.
Not included: accommodation and travel. Susie can point you toward good places to stay nearby.
Spots are limited! Save yours.
Retreat dates are announced to the list first, and Create Brave Collective members get first pick. Add your name and you'll hear the moment doors open.