The soul speaks in images - Richard Plotkin Soulcraft

Stillness benefits the slowing down of thoughts and opens up the way we see -Eckhart Tolle

Photography is a wonderful tool for seeing the world and learning how we see. Looking is not the same as seeing and a present awareness can open up the way we see, increasing perceptiveness and releasing preconceptions. This can deepen and enrich a photographic practice.

In the beautiful Temenos gardens, we will explore practical aspects of photography and ways of seeing to enhance visual storytelling. Alongside these practical aspects, we will practice meditation techniques, foster awareness by connecting to intuition and all the senses, and explore tools for strengthening creative risk-taking.

This retreat is for any skill level. It will deepen your connection to your creative intuition and benefit your practice of presence. It will give you tools to enhance your photography skills and your photographic voice.

During the weekend retreat we will:

• Explore ways of seeing with new eyes and different perspectives.

• Practice stillness and tuning in to nature and all the five senses

• Work with technical aspects of photography including framing, light, and focus.

• Discover tools to release blocks to creativity

• Photograph in the beautiful light of the Klein Karroo

• Share work and receive supportive feedback

This workshop is for all skill levels and cameras. I will cover DSLRs and Camera phone photography. The skills and techniques work equally well on both.

Cost and Bookings:

The cost of the retreat is R 3 300.00 for shared accommodation at Temenos and R 3 700.00 for a single. This includes a self-catering cottage with fireplace, brunch, and dinner daily at Tebaldi's restaurant at Temenos, and coffee/tea with snacks. The fee also includes free accommodation for Sunday evening for those that can stay over. However, Tebaldi's restaurant is closed on Sundays. You can order a takeaway at the restaurant before 2 pm.

Check-in is open on Friday 10th September at 2 pm and we will gather at 5 pm for the start of the retreat. The retreat ends at 1.30 pm on Sunday12th September.

For Reservations: Contact Temenos at +27 23 625 1871 or temenos@lando.co.za

A 50% deposit secures your place with the balance paid on arrival.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations costs are R1000 after the 10th August 2021.

Scholarship:

One scholarship is available for 50% of the cost of the retreat. Please email gwenmeyer@mac.com for more information.

Information:

For more information and any questions about the retreat: Please contact Gwendolyn at gwenmeyer@mac.com or WhatsApp 0822552867.

About Gwendolyn Meyer:

I am a photographer, painter, and teacher. I studied photography on the West coast of America in California (California College of the Arts 2004 Photography and Drawing) and have published and exhibited professionally in California, Ethiopia, and South Africa. Photography has taught me so much about the world and myself. I studied with meditation practitioners Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach in California.

Since 2004 I have been teaching youth photography through Artists in Schools organizations in South Africa and California. In South Africa, I have taught in youth programs in Loxton, Nieuwoutdville, !Kwha ttu, and Poetry in McGregor 2019, 2021. My work is at gwendolynmeyer.com and @likethelemon.