Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the participants?

Women in their 40s and beyond are typically drawn to this workshop. They are experiencing many different transitions such as changing careers, finding a job after being laid off, or looking for a more challenging job. Some are heading into retirement or experiencing an empty nest for the first time. Some have lost a loved one. And, some are experiencing a divorce. The workshop provides the container for each woman to explore her own transition, while providing a structure and support to do so. Some of the women have never done any art or thought of themselves as creative, some have wanted to create but haven't been able to carve out the time or opportunity before, and some have been experienced artists who are exploring altered book-making for the first time.

How many women in the workshop?

No more than 10 women in a workshop allows for the intimacy of sharing and works well with our space. We have had groups as small as four participants that have worked equally well.

What if I'm not creative?

In a very non-judgmental environment, each woman has the freedom, materials, and time to explore her own creativity. Even though you may not have created any art before, remember that we have all been creative in the way we've put our lives together. It's that creativity that we draw on and nurture. You'll surprise yourself in finding that inner creativity that you can bring to the surface and put into your altered book, but also into your transition.

“As someone who is going through major life transitions and considers herself artistically challenged, these workshops are a wonderful way for me to explore these transitions through the medium of collage and conversation with other women. Annie did a great job of setting the stage, providing inspiration and materials then encouraging us to just let our creativity flow. Collage lets me build as much as I want on the images and words of others while creating a work that is uniquely my own.” —Margaret

What is an altered book?

An altered book is just what it sounds like—a book that's been altered. Annie provides each woman with a book from a collection of old books that can be recycled and repurposed, or you can bring your own book. Starting with a book, you will alter it by adding images, paint, ribbon, buttons, photos, found objects, stamps, and anything else you might want to use that's relatively small and flat. You'll also remove some things, until you have a modified book that tells your own story. This is a treasure that you'll keep for years to come. Take a look in the gallery at some of the creations from the workshops.

“This workshop...is turning out to be SUCH a good exercise in stretching my artistic muscles and thinking of different ways due to the medium. I am really looking forward to making my second book.” —Suzy

What should I bring to the workshop?

Most importantly, bring a lunch. There is nowhere close by to get food. All the materials you need will be provided. But, if you have personal things you'd like to incorporate into your collage, such as feathers, buttons, ribbon, ticket stubs, certificates-basically anything that is small and flat and can be pasted in a book—you are welcome to bring them. Also, if you are familiar with altered books and want to bring a book of your own choosing to work with, by all means do it.

Can my friends and I all sign up for the same workshop?

Of course you can. Also, Annie would be happy to plan a custom workshop for you and your friends. It's a great way to celebrate a birthday, or any other milestone. Collaging also makes a wonderful focus for a retreat.